Honda Flashes new Subcompact SUV

Honda HR-V Compact SUV (Credit: © Honda)

Honda has a new SUV, called the HR-V, and it is entering the suddenly-hot subcompact market. The model is actually based on the same platform as the 2015 Fit, and both models are being manufactured at Honda’s newest subcompacts-only production facility in Celaya, Mexico. The automaker views the HR-V and the new third generation of the Fit as a way to significantly grow sales in the United States as car shoppers are turning more and more toward smaller vehicles. In fact, the Celaya plant has the ability to increase production capacity significantly if the HR-V begins to catch on in a big way.

Slotted below the incredibly popular CR-V, the HR-V constitutes the new entry-level Honda SUV. So far, nobody from the public has seen the model in person. Honda showed pictures of the HR-V during a press conference at the New York International Auto Show, revealing for the first time what the model looks like. The exterior has a sleek and modern look to it, while at the same time portraying a strong and athletic character. It lacks the squared-off characteristics present in the CR-V and especially the Pilot, making it more likely to appeal to urban dwellers.

Overall, the Honda HR-V is about practicality in a small package. Like the 2015 Fit, the SUV features a fuel tank that is mounted in the center, a configuration that actually expands interior volume and backseat legroom. The Magic Seat system, which allows for the seats to be folded in a number of different directions to accommodate large and odd-shaped items, is another utilitarian function of the interior.

The 2015 Honda HR-V is set to launch in late 2014, with pricing and feature details coming out shortly before the release.