28/09/2025

Contributing Editor Keshy Dhillon / keshy@piston.my Editorial

T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2625 E: lifestyle@thesundaily.com Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 E: advertise@thesundaily.com

SUNDAY | SEPT 28, 2025 SCAN ME Refined & practical New Honda HRV offers updates that strengthen what was already a winning formula BY TIMOTHY PRAKASH

powered by

THE Malaysian SUV market is one of the most competitive automotive battle grounds, and Honda has been a consistent front-runner thanks to the enduring popu larity of the HR-V. Since its first introduction in 2015, the HR-V has built a strong reputation for com bining style, practicality, and reliability in a compact package. According to Honda Malaysia, they have sold more than 171,000 units of the HR-V! With the arrival of the refreshed 2025 Honda HR-V, Honda Malaysia has taken the opportunity to refine what was already a winning formula. This updated model promises not only subtle styling tweaks but also improve ments in comfort, technology, and safety. We spent time evaluating what makes the latest HR-V stand out and whether it retains its place as one of the top choices in the segment. A SUBTLE EVOLUTION IN DESIGN Visually, Honda has not drastically altered the HR-V’s well-established coupe inspired profile, and that is deliberate. The silhouette, one of the defining features of the model since its introduction, remains intact. Instead, the design team has concen trated on details. The front grille now has a bolder and wider design, flanked by slimmer LED headlamps that give the SUV a more asser tive face. The new alloy wheel designs – 18 inches across all variants – provide a bal anced mix of presence and practicality. The changes may be subtle, but they col lectively sharpen the HR-V’s look and ensure it keeps pace with newer rivals. It feels more premium without losing the familiarity that has endeared it to its exist ing fanbase. For buyers stepping into the showroom, the refreshed model appears like a natural evolution rather than a radical departure, which is likely exactly what Honda intended. A CABIN BUILT FOR DAILY LIFE Inside, the HR-V remains one of the strongest in its class for cabin design and usability. The third-generation interior lay out, carried over from the 2022 model, con tinues to impress with thoughtful ergonom ics, well-placed controls, and the use of higher-quality materials. Soft-touch surfaces across the dashboard and door trims lift the overall ambience,

while the two-tier centre console demon strates Honda’s knack for delivering clever storage solutions. The Ultra Seat system – a longstanding Honda hallmark – once again sets the HR V apart from many competitors. The ability to configure the rear seats in multiple ways, whether folding flat for bulky loads or flip ping up to carry tall items, transforms the HR-V into a far more versatile vehicle than its dimensions might suggest. Boot space is generous, and the low loading lip makes it genuinely practical for family use. The Honda HR-V also has an Air Diffusion System that delivers a smoother and more comfortable cooling effect inside the cabin. By combining conventional air flow with a softer, diffused mode, it gives occupants flexible control over how air cir culates. Paired with the uniquely designed L shaped vents, the system distributes air naturally throughout the interior, enhanc ing overall comfort and setting it apart as one of the SUV’s signature features. CONNECTIVITY AND CONVEN IENCE In an era where buyers expect their cars an updated infotainment system. A crisp 8 inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The system itself is more responsive and intuitive than before, reducing distraction when navigat ing through menus. The higher-spec V and RS trims further enhance the experience with premium fea tures such as dual-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad, and a more sophisti cated audio system. Collectively, these additions push the HR-V closer to premium SUV territory, offering equipment levels that rival more expensive competitors. It’s a sign that Honda understands the changing expecta tions of Malaysian buyers, who are increas ingly unwilling to compromise on technol ogy even in compact SUVs. TWO DISTINCT PERSONALITIES UNDER THE BONNET We tested out two variants, the Turbo V and the e:HEV RS. The Turbo V is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 181PS and 240Nm of torque, paired with a CVT. On the road, it provides brisk and linear acceleration, mak ing highway overtakes effortless. to keep them seamlessly con nected, the HR-V delivers with

Matrix LED headlights with active cornering, enhancing night-time visibility.

Improvements in comfort, technology, and safety.

Bolder and wider front grille design.