Next Gen Honda HR V Spied Testing in Japan
Honda has been spotted testing the next gen HR V in Japan, and this is not a routine facelift. The current Honda HR V is already in its third generation and has been on sale globally since 2021. What we are seeing now points to a full generation change.
Only the rear section is visible in the spy image, but there is enough detail to understand the direction Honda is taking. This update looks deeper than cosmetic changes.
Exterior changes seen at the rear
The most noticeable update is the tail lamp design. The next gen HR V gets vertically stacked tail lamps. This is a big shift from the current model, which uses sleek connected tail lamps across the tailgate. Even with heavy camouflage, the change in design language is obvious.
The boot lid now looks flatter. Honda has also redesigned the number plate recess. It is rectangular this time instead of the sculpted layout used on the current HR V. The rear bumper shape looks familiar, but the reflectors are now positioned diagonally, which is new.
One detail that stands out is the absence of a visible rear wiper. Honda could be testing a hidden rear wiper setup for a cleaner look. There is also a chance it has been removed completely. If this version ever comes to India, this decision will raise eyebrows, especially during the monsoon season.
The roof spoiler and the rake of the rear windshield appear unchanged. This suggests that the overall silhouette stays familiar and does not go radical.
Based on the amount of change at the rear, expect bigger updates at the front.
Likely front and side updates include
• New headlamp design
• Revised grille
• Redesigned front bumper
• Sharper face overall
• New alloy wheel designs on the side profile
Size and interior expectations
According to inputs from Honda insiders, the new HR V could be larger than the current generation. A size increase usually means better legroom, improved shoulder room, and a more usable boot.
Hybrid components may affect boot space slightly, but Honda usually manages packaging well.
Interior details are not visible yet, but these upgrades are expected
• New dashboard layout
• Larger screens
• Improved material quality
• More tech focused cabin
Honda interiors are rarely flashy. They focus more on usability, visibility, and long term comfort. Expect the same approach here.
Engine and hybrid technology
This is where the next gen HR V becomes genuinely interesting.
The upcoming HR V is expected to use Honda second generation eHEV full hybrid system. This setup is likely to include
• 1.5 litre four cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine
• Full hybrid configuration
• Strong focus on fuel efficiency
• Smooth and silent city driving
Honda is also expected to introduce the new S Plus Shift system. This system was recently showcased with the Prelude. It uses paddle inputs to simulate gear shifts in a hybrid, adding driver feedback and engagement.
To support this, Honda is reportedly working on a sound system that makes hybrid driving feel less artificial. The aim is to avoid the dull and disconnected feel many hybrids suffer from.
Features and safety tech
For global markets, the next gen HR V should come loaded with modern features.
Expected highlights include
• Advanced driver assistance systems
• Updated Honda Sensing safety suite
• Improved infotainment system
• Better connectivity features
If this model comes to India, ADAS availability will be a major question mark due to pricing and market positioning.
India launch scenario
As of now, Honda has not confirmed an India launch for the HR V.
That said, Honda has already announced plans for 10 new products in India, out of which 7 will be SUVs across mass and premium segments. This keeps the HR V in the conversation.
Possible positioning questions Honda will need to answer
• Will the HR V sit above the Elevate
• Will it eventually replace the Elevate
• Can Honda price a hybrid SUV competitively in India
• How will it compete with Grand Vitara and Hyryder
Final thoughts
The next gen Honda HR V looks like a proper evolution. This is not a surface level update. A bigger body, modern hybrid tech, and more driver involvement show that Honda is serious about staying relevant in a crowded SUV space.
India remains the biggest unknown. But as a product, the new HR V is shaping up to be worth watching closely.
Would you wait for this HR V or pick a Creta or Seltos today That is the real question.
Next Gen Honda HR V FAQs
What is the next gen Honda HR V that was spied testing
The next gen Honda HR V is an all new generation of the HR V SUV that has been spotted testing in Japan. This is not a facelift. Honda is preparing a proper upgrade over the current third generation model that was launched globally in 2021.
Where was the new Honda HR V spotted
The new Honda HR V was spied testing in Japan. This matters because Japan usually gets early development models before a global rollout.
What exterior changes are visible in the spy images
The spy image mainly shows the rear. The next gen HR V gets vertically stacked tail lamps instead of the connected design seen on the current model. The boot lid looks flatter, the number plate area is now rectangular, and the rear reflectors are placed diagonally.
Does the next gen Honda HR V have a rear wiper
No visible rear wiper can be seen in the spy image. Honda may be testing a hidden rear wiper for a cleaner design, or it may have been removed. If this version comes to India, this could be a concern during monsoons.
Will the front design of the HR V also change
Yes. Based on the rear updates, the front is expected to get new headlights, a revised grille, a redesigned bumper, and a sharper overall face. The side profile may also feature new alloy wheel designs.
Will the next gen Honda HR V be bigger than the current model
Honda insiders suggest that the next gen HR V could be larger. A size increase usually brings better legroom, improved shoulder room, and a more usable cabin, although hybrid components may slightly affect boot space.
What interior upgrades are expected in the new HR V
Interior details are not visible yet, but expected upgrades include a new dashboard layout, bigger screens, better material quality, and a more tech focused cabin. Honda usually focuses on functional and well thought out interiors.
What engine and hybrid system will the 2027 Honda HR V use
The 2027 HR V is expected to use Honda second generation eHEV full hybrid system. It will likely feature a 1.5 litre four cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a full hybrid setup for better efficiency and smooth city driving.
What is Honda S Plus Shift system
The S Plus Shift system simulates gear shifts using paddle inputs in a hybrid setup. It adds feedback and engine sound modulation, making the driving experience feel more engaging instead of silent and disconnected.
What features and safety tech can be expected
Global versions of the next gen HR V are expected to get advanced driver assistance systems, an improved Honda Sensing safety suite, better infotainment, and enhanced connectivity features.
Will the next gen Honda HR V launch in India
There is no official confirmation yet. However, Honda has announced plans to launch 10 new products in India, including 7 SUVs. This keeps the HR V as a possible future product.
How will the HR V fit into Honda India lineup
If launched, the HR V could sit above the Elevate or potentially replace it in the future. Pricing and hybrid positioning will be key factors for its success in India.
Who will be the main rivals of the Honda HR V in India
The HR V would likely compete with hybrid SUVs like the Grand Vitara and Hyryder, along with popular midsize SUVs such as the Creta and Seltos.
