Slightly more than two months since its initial unveiling, Honda has just launched the all-new 2021 Honda HR-V in Japan, where it is sold as the Honda Vezel. The model code for this new-generation is RV, superseding the RU-generation HR-V.

In Japan, prices of the all-new 2021 Honda HR-V start from JPY 2.279 million (~RM 87k) for the entry-level G variant to JPY 3.298 million (~RM 125k) for the range-topping e:HEV Play variant.

Also Read: Bigger, bolder all-new 2021 Honda HR-V debuts, coming to Malaysia in 2022?

What’s new with this Honda HR-V?

Now in its third generation, the Honda HR-V gets completely revamped.

The front-end bears a passing resemblance to a modern-day Mazda, with its slim LED headlights surrounding a trapezoidal front grille. It also gets LED front fog lights tucked neatly at the edges.

Along the sides, the all-new Honda HR-V maintains the outgoing model’s three-door SUV styling cues, including its hidden rear door handle.

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

In terms of wheel sizes, the G and e:HEV X variants wear 16-inch rims, while the e:HEV Z and e:HEV Play variants get 18-inch wheels.

Towards the rear-end, the all-new Honda HR-V gets an equally sleek design, with a large horizontal light strip connecting both LED tail lights.

Is it bigger than the older model?

Despite looking like a much bigger model, the all-new Honda HR-V is actually slightler shorter in length than the model it replaces. The all-new model is also not as tall as the RU-generation model. Check out the comparison table below.

Does the Honda HR-V get a new interior?

Yes, the interior has also been completely overhauled, now looking sleeker than before.

Sitting centrestage is a floating-style infotainment display with Honda Connect telematics system. It also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Number of speakers ranges from four to eight, depending on variant.

All variants of the all-new Honda HR-V get digital air-conditioning controls, LED interior light, and 60:40 split-folding rear seats, while upper variants add goodies like dual-tone seat upholstery, a panoramic moon roof, Qi wireless charging, and heated seats.

Just like the previous-generation model, the all-new model also offers the versatile Ultra seats.

Is the all-new Honda HR-V safe?

For the Japanese market, all variants include the Honda Sensing ADAS suite, which includes stuff like Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), and Auto High Beam (AHB).

Stuff like Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is included on the e:HEV Z and e:HEV Play variants. The Japan-spec all-new HR-V does not have the Honda LaneWatch Camera.

2021 Honda HR-V Powertrains: 1.5-litre e:HEV and 1.5-litre petrol

The Japan-spec all-new Honda HR-V gets the choice of two powertrains at launch. The first being a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre (L15Z) petrol engine that does 118 PS and 142 Nm, mated to a CVT-type automatic.

The second option is Honda’s e:HEV petrol-electric hybrid system that combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor. The petrol engine is good for 106 PS and 127 Nm, while the electric motor does 131 PS and 253 Nm. An eCVT delivers power to either the front or all four wheels, depending on specification.

How many variants are there?

At launch, Honda will be offering four variants of the all-new Honda HR-V, including G, e:HEV X, e:HEV Play, and e:HEV Z.

Will it be coming to Malaysia?

Assuming that the HR-V will continue to remain in HMSB's line-up, earliest will be 2022 debut. That said, don't expect it to be as cheap as the current model, as the all-new HR-V is a more premium model than before.

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