2021 Honda HR-V revealed in patent images
Next-gen small SUV breaks cover early in patent photos published online.
The 2021 Honda HR-V has been revealed early in patent images, ahead of its official debut on 18 February.
Images purported to be patent filings published by user Vanhoe Rage on Facebook reveal the next-generation small SUV’s design in full, showcasing a sleeker shape than than the outgoing HR-V, with more refined styling reminiscent of Honda’s newest models.
Up front, a large diamond-patterned grille is flanked by a pair of high-set LED headlights, connected by a chrome strip met at each end by LED daytime-running light strips.
Down the side, cleaner panels are home to a single body line running underneath the windows, which see the return of the HR-V’s signature ‘hidden’ rear door handles.
At the rear, slimmer LED tail-lights are connected by a full-width light bar (which to this writer’s eye are reminiscent of the latest Kia Proceed wagon sold in Europe), with an indent for the licence plate neatly integrated into the lower tailgate.
Fans will also note a close resemblance to the Honda 'SUV e' concept revealed in 2020 – a concept claimed at the time of its unveiling to preview a future mass-produced electric SUV for China, indicating the new HR-V could spawn a zero-emissions variant later down the road.
While the patent images don't provide a look at the new model's interior, spy shots and official teasers have pointed to the inclusion of a large tablet-style infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay (and likely Android Auto).
Honda confirmed in January 2021 the new HR-V will be offered as standard in Europe with a dual-motor hybrid powertrain, though the specifics of the system will likely remain unclear unveil the car's full reveal later this month, as will the likelihood of the fuel-sipping variant making it to Australian shores.
The 2021 Honda HR-V will make its full debut on 18 February 2021. Australian launch timing remains unconfirmed.
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