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2019 Honda HR-V RS Navi is bound to happen and we’re excited

Are you cool with an HR-V facelift after a long while?

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2019 Honda HR-V

There’a a new chapter for Honda's long-running Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle. That's because Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is set to introduce the 2019 HR-V. This is the same facelifted HR-V in Thailand that made the rounds on the internet last June 2018. On top of that, there's a new RS variant for those who are into sporty looks. Just about time, don’t you think?

Related: Review: 2016 Honda HR-V 1.8 EL CVT Mugen

HCPI's three-year-older, despite its age, surprisingly still fits the modern market. Its sporty exterior styling still pleases our eyes, which we could still testify it being a head-turner. But, just because something still looks good, it doesn't mean there's no need for some changes. So, we’re getting the facelift now but will it be worth it? Let’s bring the current and the upcoming side by side, shall we?

Upfront, the changes are subtle but noticeable right away. Starting off, the fascia now has blacked-out wing grille with the 'H' emblem at the center. This small detail brings the HR-V looks closer to the new Civic and CR-V. Not to mention, the LED headlamps heavily contributes to this new look. The new bumper separates the old to the new, as the restyled one features new fog lamp housings and a new lower intake. 

(top) upcoming facelift, (bottom) outgoing model

The wheels aren't that boring anymore as Honda gave its subcompact crossover a two-tone 17-inch 5-spoke wheels, far better than the thick 5-spoke from its predecessor. There aren't much changed on the side except that the RS features blacked-out side mirrors. HR-V's distinct side character lines are still there and we don't see any reasons to change it. On top profile however, you'd be surprised that the Japanese subcompact crossover now comes with a sunroof. Yes, it does now, at least in Thailand.

As expected, there are also minimal updates on the rear. The only changes you'll see are the thin chrome bar below the rear emblem and the black rear bumper trim, which runs to the fenders all the way to the front.

(top) upcoming facelift, (bottom) outgoing model

The interior, as foreseen, doesn't come with much updates. It's just because of the new sunroof that the cabin feels a little different. The Thai-spec HR-V EL and RS variants have six airbags, as well as a Walk Away Auto Lock function and Honda LaneWatch – things we wish we’ll have locally.

Apart from the aforementioned, the entertainment is spearheaded by a seven-inch touchscreen that displays images captured by the LaneWatch blind spot monitoring feature. That's a step away from the currently available HR-V.

(top) upcoming facelift, (bottom) outgoing model

The engine bay remains untouched, as the upcoming HR-V still houses in a 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC power plant, keeping the 141 hp and 172 Nm of torque of the outgoing HR-V.

Are you liking what you're seeing here? Well, you may actually be among the first to get your hands on with the car by signing up on Honda Philippines' website to get updates, or go to the nearest Honda dealership and reserve for a unit. 

current engine of Mugen variant

The 2019 HR-V will be available in two variants: the E CVT (P1,300,000) and RS Navi CVT (P1,500,000). The price is admittedly still at the higher end of subcompact crossovers, but with the goodies you see here, we think it’s all worth it. We’ll give you more details when we get our hands on one for an in-depth review.

The launch of the new HR-V is bound to happen soon, as we've received an invite from HCPI for a launch happening later this August. We’ll keep you posted, of course.

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