The 2025 Honda HR-V e:HEV—one of the best-looking crossovers goes hybrid

I’ve always had a soft spot for the current (RV body) Honda HR-V. As with all Hondas, this subcompact crossover is fun to drive. But what I like most about it is its styling, which retains its Japanese aesthetics but has strong Italian influences also, particularly with the sharply slanted rear end and those distinctive slim LED taillights.    

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But now, just in time for its mid-cycle refresh, Honda has added something to mix—a hybrid powertrain. How to tell if a new Honda HR-V is the new hybrid? Watch our Instagram reel.

Honda says they introduced the HR-V in June 2015 in the (RU body), but they actually brought the nameplate over in 2001 as a small four-door (GH body) crossover that came only with a 1.6-liter engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It was a one-model run that wasn’t followed up by a successor model for almost ten years. So yes, it was from June 2015 when it began its run that continues today.  

The HR-V has sold over 10,000 units in the Philippines as of 2024. And it wants to add to those numbers by updating the model with an electrified variant, along with the latest features found in the current models in Honda’s lineup.

The refreshed HR-V boasts Honda’s state-of-the-art e:HEV hybrid system. The drivetrain couples a 1.5-liter 105hp DOHC i-VTEC engine with two electric motors and an E-CVT gearbox. The electric drive, with an output of 131hp and 253Nm of torque, enables smoother and stronger acceleration compared to its non-hybrid siblings. 

Honda claims that the HR-V e:HEV can achieve as much as 23.2 km/l of fuel economy—something very credible as I’ve achieved similar figures with the Honda’s own CR-V e-HEV.

Identifying a hybrid HR-V is easy, thanks to the distinctive blue e:HEV badge and the “blip” graphic on the horizontal line in the front bumper’s air intake. Also debuting for 2025 is a new Sand Khaki color and rain-sensing wipers (new for V) for added convenience. The V variant also gets new 18-inch wheels.

Inside the well-crafted cabin, the HR-V presents a host of new comfort and connectivity features. The RS and V trims include an updated infotainment system, now with wireless charger and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The RS variant also introduces power driver’s seat, red trim accents, dual-zone automatic climate control, and LaneWatch technology for added safety. Other additional features include rear parking sensors, reverse auto-tilt mirrors, and Honda’s ingenious ULT seats for flexible interior configurations.

Further bringing the 2025 HR-V to state-of-the-safety-art tech is its fitment of  Honda SENSING. This ADAS suite offers features such as the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and the Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW). It also includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow to help drivers maintain a safe distance during highway driving, as well as a Road Departure Mitigation System to help keep the vehicle on the road. Auto High Beam (AHB), meanwhile, adjusts headlights automatically for optimal visibility, while Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN) ensures drivers are alerted when the vehicle in front begins moving (hello, phone screen addicts).

The 2025 HR-V also includes Honda CONNECT, a range of smart features to help enhance the driving experience. Drivers can remotely lock or unlock the vehicle and turn on the climate control to pre-cool the cabin. The system also allows real-time tracking of the vehicle’s location and sets speed alerts to ensure safe driving. In the event of an airbag deployment, the system sends notifications promptly. 

Honda has been taking orders for the new HR-V since its media sneak peek last month. Price? The 2025 HR-V’s various variants will retail between P1.6 million to P1.9 million, with deliveries probably starting in the second quarter of the year.

Photos by Mica de los Reyes