This blob of a crossover you see here is the all-new North American-spec 2022 Honda HR-V and immediately you can see it’s an entirely different “Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle” from the one that is bound for Malaysia.

Based on the Honda Civic FE, the NA-spec HR-V is wider and has a longer wheelbase than the overseas HR-V though there are no measurements released. Ditto the interior photos as Honda have only released exterior photos.

Just like when the Little Red Riding Hood first saw the Big Bad Wolf dressed up in her grandmother’s clothes, we can’t help but exclaim “My, what a big mouth you have”. At least the NA HR-V wouldn’t respond by eating us up as its larger grille gives off a sportier stance than the sleek and futuristic overseas design.

Also read: Hold on, is the all-new 2021 Honda HR-V really as big as it looks?

Honda says that the HR-V’s design is inspired by the thrill of new experiences with an ambitious look that combines a strong sense of adventure. The athletic looks continue with the wide-set LED headlight and taillights while the sculpted hatch and functional tailgate highlight the sporty proportions.

It’s the rear that really shows off the similarities the crossover has with the Civic FE and Honda has already given a more obvious clue back when the North American HR-V was teased a couple of weeks ago.

Also read: US-spec 2023 Honda HR-V teases its rear, unveiling on 4-April

Honda has yet to reveal details on the powertrain of the ‘Murican (and Canadian) HR-V with only a mere mention of “a more responsive engine” and a new independent rear suspension to complement the sporty looks. The overseas HR-V uses a torsion beam rear suspension.

Also read: All-new 2021 Honda HR-V, what's new?

Still, the engines could be shared with the Civic which is available with a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre i-VTEC (158 PS/187 Nm) or a turbocharged 1.5-litre VTEC (180 PS/240 Nm) in North America. Besides those petrol powerplants, the all-new crossover could also feature a hybrid unit that debuted in Thailand and Europe (184 PS/315 Nm).

Also read: Priced under RM 145k, more powerful than Turbo, Honda Civic e:HEV hybrid debuts in Thailand with 2.0L 180+ PS engine

The NA-spec HR-V is set to be launched in the summer of 2022 which is around the middle of the year and could be offered with front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD).

However, this HR-V won’t just be restricted to the North American market as it is also planned to be launched in Europe but it won’t be called the HR-V as the same Malaysia-bound model is sold there.

Also read: All-electric 2023 Honda HR-V and CR-V PHEV next in line to lead Honda’s electrified revolution for Europe

Which brings us to another question, what would this model be called in Europe? Honda has filed a trademark for the Z-RV name a few years ago but could it use another letter instead?

Also read: Honda files patent for ZR-V, new mini-SUV positioned below the HR-V?