Efficient 2021 Honda HR-V Hybrid on way

Honda has released more details on its all-new hybrid-powered Honda HR-V ahead of its launch in Australia early next year.

The big news is the Japanese car-maker has confirmed the new 2022 Honda HR-V Hybrid will feature its advanced e:HEV powertrain that in this case combines a turbocharged 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with two electric motors.

Helping packaging, both electric motors live beneath the bonnet to maximise interior space.

Total power for the HR-V e:HEV is 96kW, while peak torque is 253Nm.

Already used in the latest-generation Honda Jazz (that has been ruled out for Australia), the new hybrid offers three driving modes - Normal, Econ and Sport, with an additional 'B' mode that ramps up the regenerative braking for optimum efficiency.

Unlike other hybrid systems, the petrol engine acts like a generator for the electric motors, but at higher speeds it takes over for driving on the highway.

Although it was created to offer sub-100g/km CO2 emissions, Honda has yet to reveal official efficiency claims for the petrol-electric HR-V.

Its modest power output suggests it will take more than 10 seconds to complete the 0-100km/h dash, while top speed will be limited to around 160km/h.

It's not known if Honda will offer a more powerful version of the e:HEV when it launches Down Under in February, but it's already been confirmed it will be sold with a hybrid powertrain.

As well as its electrified engines, Honda says its next HR-V will be roomier than ever, with an additional 35mm rear legroom that enables four adults to be carried in what Honda describes as "maximum comfort".

The HR-V also gets the car-maker's trademark fold-flat and flip-up Magic Seat layout that allows optimal packaging, thanks to the platform locating its fuel tank within the centre of the vehicle and its new battery pack beneath the boot floor.

Inside, the 2022 Honda HR-V misses out on the Honda e's full-width cinematic display, relying instead on a large 9.0-inch touch-screen that's claimed to have been simplified and allows customisable interfaces.

Now compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the system is claimed to be far faster than previous systems.

Ahead of the driver is a new 7.0-inch display that helps manage the new driver assist technology equipped in the latest HR-V.

The latter includes upgraded adaptive cruise control, blind spot information, cross traffic monitoring and hill descent control.

New L-shaped air vents located in the top corners of the dashboard, meanwhile, both free up space and are claimed to send a "curtain" of fresh air into the cabin for better ventilation.

More information, including details of other e:HEV powertrains, are expected in the build-up to the European launch later in 2021.