The first official images of the facelifted 2018 Honda HR-V (Sold as Vezel in Japan) are out. All set for its debut in the home country on February 15th, the premium compact SUV is on the cards for India and should go on sale here by early 2019. The facelifted HR-V gets minor updates to its fascia in the form of all-LED lighting. A thicker bar like the one on the new Accord now sits above the mesh pattern radiator grille and changes have been made to the air intake and fog lamp housing as well.
Honda’s safety and assistance suite, called ‘Honda Sensing’ will be offered as standard on higher-spec trims, although we aren’t sure if it will be offered on the India-spec car. Available with a host of engine options elsewhere, the India-spec Honda HR-V will be offered with the 1.5-litre petrol i-VTEC petrol which powers the City and a new 1.6-litre diesel engine which will make its debut with the new CR-V.
Rivalling the likes of the Hyundai Creta and the Jeep Compass, the Honda HR-V for India will most certainly come fitted with an accomplished infotainment system, a sunroof (considering the WR-V and City offer one too), a touch panel for HVAC controls and high-quality materials for the upholstery. Offered with Honda’s “Magic Seats” elsewhere, the India-spec HR-V could get that option too. When it makes its debut, it will provide a great alternative to buyers in the premium compact SUV space, where the Hyundai Creta has been ruling the roost. Talking about the Creta, a mild makeover for the popular car is due and a model with minor updates will show up at the upcoming Auto Expo before going on sale later this year.