Honda’s blockbuster for this year’s Tokyo Auto Salon is without a doubt the Civic Type R, which was put on display ahead of its launch in full camouflage. However, tucked in a quiet corner within Honda’s TAS2022 booth is yet another concept that could capture the hearts of its fans – the Honda HR-V Modulo X Concept.
The Japanese carmaker’s in-house tuning department has once again worked its magic on the all-new HR-V SUV (called Vezel in Japan). Although it’s still in concept form, the display car serves as a preview for what’s to come on the factory-tuned model that is scheduled to launch later this year.
And there is a whole lot going on here. Most visibly, the Honda HR-V Modulo X concept gains a completely reworked front fascia with a new “beak-like” grille alongside a new X-shaped bumper design with new intakes.
If you think these updates are just for looks, you’d be very wrong. According to Honda, these new parts all serve important aerodynamic functions, with the little flics and air deflectors (see below) all strategically placed to enhance the SUV’s high-speed stability.
On top of that, Honda has also enlisted the expertise of “Drift King” Keiichi Tsuchiya to help develop a set of suspension upgrades to improve the SUV’s driving dynamics – and from the video published by the company, it certainly seems like they’ve subjected the test mule to some “heavy handling”!
Other additions to the Honda HR-V Modulo X Concept include a set of exclusive 18-inch wheels, new rear bumpers (with proper diffuser elements), a new tailgate spoiler, plus new kits on the inside such as new sportier-looking seats and red contrast stitching on the upholstery.
Honda did not disclose any pricing information for the Modulo X variant just yet, but that’s to be expected since it’s still a concept model. While the Japanese wait for their kitted-up SUV, the all-new Honda HR-V is likely to be launched here in Malaysia very soon – so keep your eyes peeled!
[Images: Honda, Honda Access/Twitter]
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