If the Perodua Myvi is dubbed the King of Malaysian roads, the title of Queen might belong to the second-generation Honda HR-V. The compact B-SUV is regarded as the pioneer of the growing and ever so popular segment when it was introduced in Malaysia in 2015.

After six years on sale and becoming a trendsetter, Honda Malaysia is about to bring in the all-new third-gen HR-V (on sale in Japan as the Vezel). As a swansong, it has launched the limited-edition HR-V SE but unlike other manufacturers that slap on bodykits and stickers before calling it a day, Honda adds a safety feature on its run-out variant.

Starting from RM 105,364, the HR-V SE is essentially the base HR-V 1.8 E variant that costs RM 1,364 more. From the outside, you can’t really tell that this is a limited-edition model with the only clue being the SE badge on the tailgate.

Also read: From RM 105k, the Honda HR-V SE is a limited edition model with BSM and RCTA

Even the interior is similar to the E variant and there are no Mugen/Modulo bits or even commemorative HR-V stitching on the upholstery or plaque on the dashboard. But glance at the A-pillars and you will notice something protruding out.

That is essentially the added safety feature on the HR-V. The extra one grand and some change ringgit gives you an HR-V that has blind-spot monitors (BSM), lane change assist, rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), and door-opening warning.

But safety features (and an SE badge) are not the only additions you get on the HR-V SE as the run-out model comes with a digital video recorder (DVR), a trunk tray as well as a trunk organiser.

Though the HR-V SE adds a rudimentary-looking safety monitor, the SUV itself is already packed with some essential safety features including 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, and a reverse camera.

Also read: Honda Malaysia updates Honda HR-V, BR-V with 360-deg camera - RM 3.3k

The powertrain on the HR-V SE remains unchanged from the rest of the petrol variants – a naturally-aspirated 1.8-litre 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine (142 PS/172 Nm) which is paired to a CVT automatic.

Besides the HR-V SE, Honda Malaysia has also given updates to the HR-V Hybrid which now comes with LED headlights, front foglights, and taillights. Aside from that, it also features a new three-spoke combination leather steering wheel.

Also read: 2021 Honda HR-V Hybrid updated in Malaysia, priced at RM 114k, now with LED headlights

Power on the HR-V Hybrid comes from a 1.5-litre petrol-hybrid unit (152 PS/192 Nm) hooked to a 7-speed DCT automatic. Meanwhile, prices for the HR-V Hybrid starts from RM 113,954 (without SST, valid until 30-June 2022).

The HR-V remains an important car in Malaysia but its age is showing as rivals introduce more sophisticated and modern models. That being said, the outgoing HR-V is still a good buy for those who want a practical and spacious Queen and the SE adds some safety features for just a little over RM 100k.

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