The Honda Vezel (known in some markets as the HR-V) is a perennially popular small SUV with some real ability. The current model looks good and is available to buy in various specifications from the MHH Japanese Cars website. Later this year it is to be renewed and will get on board with the hybrid revolution.
The New Car
The all-new and rather clumsily named Vezel (HR-V) e:HEV is powered by Honda's advanced two-motor hybrid power-train technology, delivering a blend of efficiency and responsive performance. This sub-compact SUV is the latest model to get into Honda's e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) model line-up.
Conceived, say the Japanese brand, to meet the exacting needs of modern consumers and the latest regulations, the new model on the face of it achieves a good balance of premium SUV styling and exceptional spaciousness for its size. It is, we learn, easy to get into and out of.
On The Inside
Inside the new Vezel, the design is geared to achieving a sense of generous spaciousness and airiness, with levels of comfort and practicality unrivalled in the expanding sub-compact SUV sector. Contemporary fabrics and textured materials create a solid, premium feel with good quality soft-touch materials and, of course, Honda’s ‘Magic Seat’ arrangement, offering extra capacity options.
The airy feeling is amplified by a unique ‘Air Diffusion System’ where L-shaped vents are positioned in the top corners of the dashboard. This interesting new development addresses a disparity in traditional vent configurations, where passengers often feel uncomfortable with air flowing directly onto them. The system subtly directs a stream of air along the front side windows to the roof, creating a vortex of air beside and above occupants. That’s a neat idea and a thoughtful touch.
Honda's next-generation ‘body stabilising’ front seats feature extra support, which helps prevent fatigue on long journeys and increases comfort in everyday use. For additional comfort while driving, the interior controls are optimally positioned as close as possible to the driver's field of vision. The uncluttered, simple-to-use layout further adds to the sense of spaciousness, with instantly recognisable audio and ventilation controls allowing for safe and intuitive operation.
The all-new Honda Vezel (HR-V) provides seamless in-car connectivity that allows owners to connect to their everyday lives with ease. The intuitive 9” LCD touchscreen interface is designed to minimise driver distraction, with a simplified and fully customisable menu layer enabling easy access to convenience features and controls. HMI operation time is greatly improved compared to previous model HMI systems, making it quick and easy to switch between Apps and providing fast response to inputs and commands.
Applying the latest design principles, the Vezel platform has been engineered with hybrid drivetrain components cleverly packaged into the chassis and within the engine bay. This, combined with Honda's innovative centre fuel tank layout and the integration of the battery beneath the boot (trunk) space rather than the floor of the car, enables this car to provide maximum comfort for four adults, despite the additional electric componentry. Further, for road safety, This all-new car is equipped with Honda SENSING for the first time and features a comprehensive range of class-leading advanced safety technologies and driver aids.
The Power
Honda's proven e:HEV hybrid technology delivers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, with responsive performance and impressive fuel efficiency. Hybrid technology is really stepping up. It comprises two compact, powerful electric motors connected to a 1.5L i-VTEC petrol engine. The set-up includes three interchangeable drive modes, automatically selected for the prevailing driving requirements. For ultimate efficiency, the Vezel pulls off in electric mode, seamlessly changing to hybrid mode when the engine is under high-torque demand, with the petrol engine used when driving at higher, more constant speeds.
The driving dynamics are enhanced through the various performance modes – Sport, Normal and Economy, while the additional drive ‘Mode B’ can be selected through the gear shifter for stronger regenerative braking and a more EV-like experience. The level of energy regeneration and the strength of the deceleration effect can be adjusted to suit the driver's preference by using Deceleration Selector behind the steering wheel, to provide a variety of driving experiences.
This new car will be launched at the end of this year, depending upon where in the world you are, but for now the very smart current version of this evergreen Honda model is well worth considering. It is ideal for the smaller family and is known for its dependability. Get in touch to find more.
