Fresh Honda HR-V coming

A facelifted version of the popular Honda HR-V small SUV will hit the Aussie market in the third quarter of 2018.

The update, first spotted in February in Japan, will include safety, drivability and visual updates for the Honda HR-V.

But the official message is not to expect anything major to change, which is understandable given the Honda HR-V has proven a worthy competitor for the likes of the Mazda CX-3 and Mitsubishi ASX.

Apart from a reworked front fascia and new alloy wheels, the update should also include the fitment of autonomous emergency braking to the VTi base model and steering and suspension retunes across the range.

Anyone hoping Honda might add a peppier turbo engine to the HR-V alongside the current 105kW 1.8-litre four-cylinder will be disappointed.

Nor is there any chance the hybrid offered in Japan, where the HR-V is named the Vezel, will be seen here.

But the upside of an ‘it ain’t broke don’t fix it’ policy is expected to be minimal price change for a range that starts at $24,990 and is now officially in run-out.

“HR-V has been an incredibly strong performer for us since we launched it in early 2015,” said Honda Australia customer and communications general manager Scott McGregor.

“The facelift will be coming in a couple of months from now and while we won’t reveal too much detail today, the focus is on safety, improved drivability and improved style.

“They are the three main focuses for us with the vehicle.

“We are really excited because HR-V is doing really well in terms of private share against the top sellers and we think this upgrade will take us even further.”

To the end of April 2018, VFACTS figures show 4065 HR-Vs were registered compared to 3794 in the same period of 2017.

In 2018 HR-V the fourth most popular model in the segment behind the Mitsubishi ASX, Mazda CX-3 and Subaru XV.