• 4 variants across 3 powertrain choices
• All variants get the Sensing ADAS suite
• Which variant offers the best proposition?

The launch of the all-new 2022 Honda HR-V has come full circle with 4 variants offered across 3 powertrain options.

Prices are higher than before, starting from RM 114,800 for the HR-V 1.5 E variant, all the way to RM 140,800 for the range-topping 1.5 RS.

Also read: 2022 Honda HR-V launched in Malaysia - from RM 115k; up to 181 PS, choice of 1.5L NA, Turbo, or Hybrid; Sensing as standard

Here’s how the 4 variants stack up:

For the first time, the Honda HR-V is offered with three 1.5-litre engine options – naturally aspirated outputting 121 PS / 145 Nm, turbocharged with 181 PS / 240 Nm, and two-motor full hybrid 131 PS / 253 Nm (motor only).

In all cases, the engines are paired to a CVT-type automatic, and belt-less e-CVT for the hybrid RS driving the front wheels.

The 2022 HR-V competes against a much more crowded field of B-Segment crossovers now, and hence the variant list is spread across a wider price range compared to its predecessor.

That said, Honda has carefully curated the 2022 HR-V’s equipment list to appeal to a larger audience of SUV buyers.

Given the compelling value proposition even for the entry 1.5 S variant, what separates each variant in terms of features, and which is the right HR-V for you? Let’s find out.

Also read: Just how practical is the 2022 Honda HR-V? Let us show you in 22 photos

How do the variants measure up?

Honda surely hasn’t skimped on standard equipment – all 2022 HR-Vs notably receive LED headlights, an 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), Agility Handling Assist and the Honda Sensing suite of ADAS functions.

To recap, the Sensing suite includes the following safety technologies:

• Adaptive cruise control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF)
• Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS, aka AEB)
• Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Auto High Beam (AHB)

Note too, that the 2022 HR-V is fitted with a new wide-view front camera for enhanced recognition capability.  

Starting with the 1.5 S variant, it offers 17-inch wheels, fabric seats with manual seat adjustments, and a 7-inch infotainment system with 4 speakers. Rear AC vents and a 4.2-inch MID instrument cluster display are other features found on the inside.

The S and E variants are easily identified by their 17-inch two-tone wheels and grey horizontal grille inserts.

Whilst they are visually similar – stepping up to the 2022 HR-V E variant nets you a lot more horsepower, 181 PS and 240 Nm to be exact. Though similar to the four-pot DOHC VTEC unit found in the Civic, the 2022 HR-V puts out 1 PS less than the Civic.

That aside, the HR-V E variants add LED front foglamps, paddle shifters 7-inch semi-digital instrument cluster, and a Sport mode button for additional driver engagement.

Rear passengers by now get a rear armrest and 2 USB charging ports.

Moving up to the more expensive V variant gives a sportier outlook courtesy of larger 18-inch wheels and sequential LED turn signals.

Also read: Battle for Malaysia's king of SUVs: 2022 Honda HR-V vs Toyota Corolla Cross; NA or turbo power?

On the inside, the V variant gets an 8-way powered driver’s seat, leather seats, steering wheel and gearknob, as well as an 8-speaker audio setup.

In terms of safety – the V variant also adds the Honda LaneWatch camera and Honda Connect application which puts you directly in touch with Honda for a range of convenience and safety services.

The range-topping 2022 HR-V RS variant pulls out all the stops with the addition of the RS body kit – which consists unique gloss black grille and lower trim elements all finished in gloss back. The rear receives smoked LED taillight strips.

Besides the e:HEV hybrid powertrain buyers receive RS-specific interior details, automatic wipers and dual-zone automatic climate control as well as the hands-free powered tailgate with Walk Away Close feature.

Conclusion

If you ask us which variant is the pick of the range, we think the range-topping 2022 HR-V 1.5 RS hits the sweet spot.

The 1.5 S variant is a great starting point, offering the full Sensing ADAS suite means one is not losing out on safety tech just because it’s cheaper.

Also read: 2022 Honda HR-V 1.5 S: Corolla Cross fighter undercuts it in price, not value

The 1.5 S, we feel is best for buyers who aren’t too bothered about performance, or stepping into their first SUV, but want the prestige and ownership experience of Honda, over a Proton X50.

The 1.5 S offers surprisingly good value, albeit if there is this nagging feeling you can do better. This is especially true if you are an existing SUV owner or even one who is trading an older HR-V for the 1.5 S.

Now the biggest conundrum is the HR-V 1.5 E and V variants. Yes it’s turbocharged, and yes it’s an exciting proposition but we feel at best, it’s a great compromise.

Simply because if you’re looking for power, handling and exhilaration, you are much better off with a 2022 Honda Civic.

In the HR-V, the powertrain’s potential is ultimately clipped by the SUV’s ride height and comfort requirements. Plus, given both the Civic and HR-V are similarly priced, you’d simply be giving up a bit of bootspace for what is essentially one of the most dynamic cars on sale today.

This leads to the 1.5 RS – the combination of practicality, hybrid efficiency and tech encapsulates the best traits of what the HR-V is.

With the 1.5 RS, buyers get the best-looking HR-V, which is no less practical than any other variant, and the hybrid efficiency and power courtesy of its e:HEV hybrid powertrain.

The 1.5 RS is also tuned dynamically to offer a good balance of sporty and comfortable handling which hits the sweet spot for most buyers.  

Add to that the technology, safety and convenience features and you have not just the best HR-V but a class-leading SUV that beats all the competition where it truly matters.

Also read: Honda HR-V e:HEV RS is a better buy? Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid asks buyers to compare warranty coverage

For more information check out our review of the 2022 Honda HR-V review below.