Masaki Kobayashi, the project leader for the styling of Honda’s new HR-V, has provided some insight into the Japanese manufacturer’s new compact crossover.
“We didn’t want to just create a downsized SUV,” he explains. “Honda already has the CR-V, which combines the virtues of an SUV and a lighter, more nimble conventional car, so the HR-V needed to offer something different. The development team set a goal to create a new value or theme from the very start of the project.”
Kobayashi instead wants to create something with the elegance and fluidity of a coupé, but with the utility and strength of an SUV.
Honda wants to target active people who enjoy both the work and home life, who also understand the balance between fashion and practicality.
“For the exterior we are very pleased with its dynamic shape, the high quality of the surfaces and the intricate but seamless detailing,” says Kobayashi. “I can say that when the whole team first saw the prototype vehicle together, we felt proud and special that we were able to realise our targets with this new car. I believe that the HR-V possesses the elegance to look attractive in any scene and yet a sense of toughness at the same time. And my determination to make it look like a real ‘driver’s car’ was achieved.”
The new HR-V is still a few years away, however, and we have yet to receive word on whether it will be made available in SA.
