2022 Honda HR-V to get three powertrain options in Malaysia – 1.5L NA, Turbo, and Hybrid



The all-new 2022 Honda HR-V is set to make its debut here in Malaysia very soon, with the car already being displayed at various showrooms over the weekend in an attempt to drum up hype. But if you unfortunately missed out on the preview, don’t worry – we’ve got our hands on the full list of specifications for all four variants of the all-new HR-V, and surprisingly, we might be the first country in the world to offer the compact crossover in all three different engine options!

According to a document sighted by AutoBuzz.my, the all-new 2022 Honda HR-V will be offered in three different powertrain options across four variants. They’re all based on a 1.5-litre inline-four engine, but will be offered in three different configurations for a wide range of power output.

The entry-level S variant will be the only one without any form of augmentation, with the 1.5-litre engine coming in a naturally-aspirated form to make 121 hp and 145 Nm. If you’re keeping track, the engine – which is the same unit found in the City – makes 21 hp and 27 Nm less than the 1.8-litre mill on the outgoing model, so it remains to be seen how effective it is at motivating the compact crossover.

The standard bar-type grille design, available on the entry-level S variant.

Moving up to the E and V variant will net you a vastly more powerful turbocharged engine with 177 hp and 240 Nm of torque – similar to that of the HR-V Turbo in Indonesia. While it’s roughly 5 hp lower than the Civic, it should still be plenty for the HR-V, and will be the default recommendation for the model.

All three variants above will be paired to a CVT gearbox, with power sent exclusively to the front wheels.

RELATED: Honda HR-V open for booking – to be launched in Q3 of 2022

Just like the City, Honda Malaysia is also capping off the HR-V range with an RS variant, powered by an e:HEV hybrid powertrain. It gets a slight boost in horsepower output here at 131 hp (+22 hp), but the torque figure remains unchanged at 253 Nm. Power is sent to the front wheels via an e-CVT gearbox.

The e:HEV’s powertrain configuration means that most of the propulsion is provided by the traction motor; the atkinson-cycle engine functions as a generator during most driving situations, but a lock-up clutch links the engine to the drivetrain at higher speeds for higher efficiency.

In terms of appearance, all variants bar the entry-level S will come equipped with the RS bodykit, which includes the “chequered flag” grille mesh (S gets a horizontal bar-type design), and sportier front and rear bumper designs – the former also includes an adorable “heartbeat” signature graphic, painted in red on the RS and silver on the other variants.

All variants of the 2022 Honda HR-V will also come with LED reflector headlights, but the V and RS variants stand out with sequential LED turn indicators. As for the wheels, they range from 17-inches on the S and E variants, moving up to 18-inches in diameter on the V and RS variants.

Thailand-spec Honda HR-V RS shown.

Moving inside, standard features across the board include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, 60:40 split-folding Ultra seats, and keyless entry with walk away auto lock, four reverse sensors, and a reverse camera.

The E variant adds on a semi-digital instrument cluster, drive-mode selector, gearshift paddles, and a rear centre armrest, while the V and RS also throws in an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, Variable Gear Ratio steering, and Honda Connect smartphone connectivity.

Exclusive to the range-topping RS variant are the automatic wipers, hands-free powered tailgate, and a dual-zone climate control system, one-upping even the Civic. However, due to the batteries sitting underneath the boot floor at the back, the full-sized spare tyre here is replaced with a tyre repair kit.

The Honda Sensing advanced driver assist suite will come as standard across all variants, with features including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop-go support, lane keeping and lane centring assist, and automatic high-beam.

As with other Honda models in our region, the all-new 2022 HR-V still does not come with blind-spot monitors on all variants; the V and RS variants do however get the LaneWatch blind-spot camera, with the video feed displayed on the central infotainment screen when the left turn indicator is activated.

All that’s left now is the pricing, which will not be confirmed until the official launch, which is scheduled to happen in the next couple of months. Keep your eyes peeled on our site as we bring you our usual timely coverage!