Honda Automobile (Thailand) has launched the all-new HR-V, a premium sport crossover, in the domestic market.

The all-new HR-V is powered by a 1.8-litre SOHC, 4-cylinder, 16-valve i-VTEC engine that provides 141bhp plus a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology to enhance both driving performance and fuel economy.  The engine is compatible with E85 fuel. Advanced safety technologies such as an Electric Parking Brake and Automatic Brake Hold offer safety and comfort for all driving conditions.

According to Pitak Pruittisarikorn, Chief Operating Officer of Honda Automobile (Thailand) “The launch of the all-new Honda HR-V, a premium sport crossover, will set a new benchmark for the Thai automobile market.  This car will fulfill the various lifestyle preferences of customers in the compact segment.  It is also a new type of vehicle ideal for customers who are looking for a SUV that perfectly matches their various needs, leisure activities and lifestyles.  Honda developed the all-new Honda HR-V by integrating the best in every angle to create the new generation of premium sport crossover. We are sure that the all-new Honda HR-V will receive a very warm welcome from Thai customers and is worth waiting for.”

 
The HR-V, under the Honda Vezel name, made its world debut in Japan in 2013.  It was well accepted by Honda’s Japanese customers, with over 100,000 units sold within the first year.  The HR-V was then launched in China and the third market to launch it globally is Thailand, which is also the first country to manufacture and sell this model in the ASEAN region.
 
The all-new Honda HR-V was developed based on the fundamentals of a Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), adding the sportiness of a coupe and integrating the functionality of a minivan.

The full range of premium advanced safety features include an Electric Parking Brake that is easily activated by slightly pulling up the switch on the centre console; Automatic Brake Hold that holds the brake automatically so the driver doesn't have to press the brake pedal all the time when stopped; Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD); Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA); Hill Start Assist (HSA); Emergency Stop Signal (ESS); plus a 3-angle Rearview camera and six airbags: Driver i-SRS airbag, Front Passenger SRS airbag, i-Side airbags, and Side Curtain Airbags for more confidence in all journeys.

Honda Automobile (Thailand) expects to achieve sales of 20,000 units within one year. The HR-V is available in three variants, which are the S at 890,000 Baht (Rs 16.64 lakh) , the E at 975,000 Baht (Rs 18.23 lakh), and the EL at 1,045,000 Baht (Rs 19.54 lakh).  It comes in five colours – Crystal Black (Pearl), White Orchid (Pearl), Alabaster Silver (Metallic), with two new colours; Ruse Black (Metallic) and Morpho Blue (Pearl).