The Honda HR-V crossover is meant to merge coupe-like styling with the utility and functionality of an SUV and it does not disappoint, especially after the 2018 refresh. While the updated model retains most of the original's features and styling, upfront features a new front bumper, a resculpted bonnet, and redesigned headlights.
Related: Honda HR-V 1.8 Elegance (2019) review
At the rear, the taillamps gain a smoked appearance and the licence plate garnish is made to match the more aggressive styling up front. While the model retains its passive and active safety systems which include six airbags, vehicle stability assist, hill start assist, and emergency braking indicators, the interior now comes fitted with a new infotainment system which results in the entire Honda range now being standardized.
Powertrains
As with the first model, the updated model still features two engine options. Both motors are naturally aspirated, 4-cylinder petrol offerings, however, the one benefitting from more capacity. Let us compare the two engines for a more comprehensive understanding of each.
| Honda HR-V 1.5 Comfort | Honda HR-V 1.8 Elegance | |
| Engine | 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol | 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder, petrol |
| Transmission | 5-step CVT | 5-step CVT |
| Power | 88 kW | 105 kW |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 172 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 12s | 10.1 |
| Top speed | 179 km/h | 188 km/h |
| Fuel consumption | 6.3 L / 100 km | 6.8 L / 100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 151 g/km | 162 g/km |
*This table has been compiled using information sourced from www.duoporta.co.za
Verdict
Unsurprisingly the 1.8-litre model provides more power and torque which results in faster acceleration and a higher top speed. What is surprising is the small increase in fuel consumption which is very impressive. Now while it might seem as though the 1.8-litre derivative is the obvious choice, it does come at a premium.
While the 1.5-litre model is priced at R415 400, the 1.8-litre Elegance comes in at R491 400, a full R76 000 more. Now you have to keep in mind that the latter model doesn't just have a larger motor mated to the 5-step CVT, it also offers a host of additional specification items. On the exterior, the Elegance feature 17-inch alloy wheels instead of the 16-inch options on the Comfort variant.
The Elegance derivative also benefits from perforated leather seats with double contrast stitching while the Comfort models see fabric finishes. Although both variants come fitted with electrically operated windows and mirrors, remote central locking, air-conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel and a multi-information trip computer, Elegance models further benefit from a rear-view parking camera which is linked to parking sensors.
Now that the price difference is accounted for, let us take a look at which is truly the most efficient. Provided that the increase in performance was expected from the 1.8-litre derivative, the fact that it manages to do so with such a small increase in fuel consumption was unexpected and ultimately makes it the most efficient of the two. However, if we take into account the total cost of ownership, the large difference in price could mean for a cheaper overall ownership cost and might just be the option for you if you don't need the extra power.
*The pricing listed in this article was correct at the time of writing and can change at any time.
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