The all-new 2021 Honda HR-V made its official launch in Japan yesterday, where it is badged as the Honda Vezel. Not long after, Honda has also announced that the third-generation HR-V will be available in Europe in late 2021.

While the Japan-spec all-new HR-V gets two powertrains – a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine (118 PS/142 Nm) and Honda’s e:HEV petrol-electric hybrid system, it’s the latter that will only be offered in the Old Continent. This is part of Honda's commitment to only sell electrified models in Europe by 2022.

That hybrid system combines a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine (105 PS/127 Nm) that is connected to a pair of electric motors (131 PS/253 Nm). This is paired to an eCVT automatic gearbox.

The e:HEV set-up comprises three drive modes – Sport, Normal, and Econ. For ultimate efficiency, the all-new HR-V pulls off in electric mode, changes seamlessly to hybrid mode when the engine is under high-torque demand, and switches to petrol when driving at higher, more constant speeds.

Overall, the European-spec HR-V is similar to its Japanese counterpart. The sleeker- and cleaner-looking coupe crossover exterior styling belies the notion that the newer generation is shorter than its predecessor.

Inside, the all-new HR-V presents a more spacious and airier cabin feel with a unique ‘Air Diffusion System’. In this system, the air flows along the front side windows to the roof and creates a vortex beside and above the passengers instead of blowing directly.

Honda also claims driver visibility is improved in the all-new HR-V with a driving position that is 10 mm higher than the previous generation.

Proudly sitting in the middle of the dashboard is a 9-inch LCD touchscreen interface that is more intuitive and faster, allowing passengers to easily and quickly switch between apps. The system also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support as well as over-the-air (OTA) software updates.

Just like in Japan, the European HR-V will feature Honda Sensing which includes Pedestrian Collision Mitigation Steering System, Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), and Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM).

Now, whether it arrives in Malaysia or not, one thing that is for certain is that it looks like a step up from the previous-gen HR-V. The popular B-SUV saw an upgrade earlier this year in an attempt to keep it fresh.

Also read: Video: Honda HR-V 1.8 RS - Not the new kid anymore, but still great

However, if the RV-gen HR-V arrives here you can expect prices to be more expensive than the outgoing generation. Are you willing to pay a premium for Honda’s popular crossover?

Also read: The all-new 2021 Honda HR-V is pretty, but might skip Malaysia