Offered exclusively as a hybrid, the HR-V has been crafted to be both extremely enjoyable and responsive to drive, as well as highly efficient. The two-motor e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) powertrain, which also features in the recently launched Jazz, benefits from advancements made over 20 years of Honda hybrid development. For its application in the HR-V, there have been a number of revisions to counter the additional size and mass of the SUV over the Jazz. Power and torque have been increased to 131 PS with 253 Nm respectively, whilst the final gear ratio has also been lowered for better driving performance.
The e:HEV battery system in the HR-V has higher energy density that enables it to generate greater output. The number of cells in the battery has been boosted by 25%, from 48 cells in the Jazz e:HEV to 60. This increased battery capacity enables the HR-V to realise SUV driving characteristics. The battery was identified as the ideal size as it not only allows for increased motor output, but it’s also compact enough to not impact on interior space and enables the HR-V to feature the flat floor.
Honda’s engineers also analysed every
aspect of the driving experience to optimise the HR-V’s dynamics. Their
attention to detail has seen the torsional rigidity and spring rate of
the steering column increased, to deliver a smoother feel during
direction changes. Initial corner turn-in is more direct and precise,
with the overall feel during manoeuvres much more linear when compared
to the previous generation HR-V, and inspiring confidence through stable
and predictable handling.
The suspension is also more
responsive, with an improvement in friction right from the first
steering input, compared to the outgoing model. To achieve this, the
spring offset is increased to reduce lateral forces on the damper, which
also features reduced inner friction. This combines with the
low-friction ball joints and optimised bushings to provide a more linear
and smooth movement.
At the rear, the compliance bushes have
been modified in both construction and design to improve rear wheel
control and ride comfort. The, now, liquid-filled bushes offer up
increased damping performance and offer supreme low-frequency
performance providing excellent primary ride, whilst absorbing certain
frequency vibrations to improve secondary ride. In revising the bush
design, a flange has been added to reduce lateral movement across the
bush. By offering a more secure seating, the spring rate of the bush has
also been reduced to further improve handling and ride comfort.
Assured
stopping power is delivered by a powerful braking system featuring 293
mm ventilated front discs and 282 mm solid discs at the rear.
Furthermore, a bespoke electric servo brake mated to the e:HEV system
smoothly controls the regenerative and hydraulic brakes, affording
smooth brake feel. Additionally, the HR-V’s brake pedal is positioned
with a keener focus on ergonomics, reducing driver fatigue over long
distances.
The ideal platform for class-leading dynamics and comfort
Honda’s current global small platform has been updated for the HR-V, with the ratio of high-tensile steel increased for improved body rigidity. In addition, 980 high-lambda steel is applied to the floor centre crossmember and the centre pillar inner, further increasing strength and reducing weight by 1.5 kg. A ring structure has been added behind the C-pillars for further chassis reinforcement, allowing for greater control over each individual wheel offering improved ride quality and dynamic behaviour.
As well as minimising the weight impact of electrification and improving safety performance, the additional rigidity combines with the low-friction suspension upgrades and the longer wheelbase to provide impressive base stability. This means large road bumps are easily absorbed, creating a flatter ride, while vibrations from the road are supressed and engine resonance is reduced.
Honda’s
all-encompassing approach to NVH management extends to reducing sound
pressure change when starting the engine from EV mode and supressing
engine noise at higher speeds. Engineers also worked to reduce
low-frequency road noise caused by road surface changes, further
improving the cabin ambience for a more relaxing drive.
By
repeatedly tuning and testing every element that directly impacts on the
driving experience, Honda has significantly enhanced the overall
handling capability and comfort of the HR-V. As well as being perfectly
suited to the responsive nature of the HR-V’s electrified powertrain,
this new dynamic character complements the car’s outstanding
contemporary design and superior levels of interior comfort and space,
making the car stand out in the competitive compact B-SUV segment.
