28/09/2025

theSunday Special XIV ON SUNDAY SEPT 28, 2025

Switch into Sport mode and the throttle sharpens, giving the SUV a livelier feel that keen drivers will appreciate. While fuel economy is respectable at between 6.5 and 7.5 litres per 100km, it is clear that effi ciency is not the Turbo V’s strongest suit. Instead, this variant appeals to those who prioritise performance and responsive ness in their daily drive. The RS e:HEV hybrid takes a different approach, combining a 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine with an electric motor that acts as a generator. The result is a sys tem output of 131PS and 253Nm. Around town, the hybrid is a revelation, gliding almost silently on electric power at low speeds and delivering remarkable smoothness. Its trump card is efficiency: fuel consumption averages an excellent 4.0 to 4.5 litres per 100km, making it ideal for urban commuters. However, when pushed hard, the hybrid’s limitations show. The e-CVT pro duces a noticeable drone under full throttle, and while acceleration is adequate, it lacks the outright punch of the Turbo V. For high way driving or spirited runs, it feels less sat isfying, though its refinement in city use is undeniable. Both variants share the HR-V’s well sorted chassis. The suspension strikes a fine balance, being firm enough to control body roll yet compliant enough to absorb bumps, potholes and some light off-roading. Steering is light and precise in town, becom ing reassuringly weighted at higher speeds. The Turbo V feels more engaging during spirited drives, while the RS e:HEV excels in urban comfort. SAFETY AT THE CORE Safety remains a cornerstone of Honda’s philosophy, and the HR-V continues to reflect that. Both variants come equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, and traffic jam assist. The Turbo V includes Honda’s LaneWatch camera, offering a live feed of the blind spot when indicating. The RS e:HEV, meanwhile, comes with more advanced Matrix LED headlights with active cornering, enhancing night-time visi bility. Both variants also feature six airbags, stability control, and ISOFIX mounts as standard, ensuring strong occupant protec tion across the board. VALUE FOR MONEY The HR-V 1.5 Turbo V is priced at RM137,900, while the RS e:HEV comes in at RM143,900. For the additional RM6,000, the hybrid brings greater effi ciency, advanced lighting, dual-zone cli

mate control, and enhanced refinement. The Turbo V, however, offers more engag ing performance, a lower purchase price, and the practicality of a spare tyre instead of just a repair kit. Ultimately, the decision between the two comes down to priorities. Drivers who enjoy performance and seek a more connected feel behind the wheel will gravitate towards the Turbo V. Those who value refinement, efficiency, and premium features will find the RS e:HEV the smarter long-term choice, particularly for urban commuting. REFINEMENT OVER REVOLUTION The 2025 Honda HR-V is not a radical reinvention of the model. Instead, it is a careful refinement of an already successful formula. The exterior updates freshen its appearance without alienating loyal fans, the interior continues to impress with its versatility and quality, and the technology and safety features meet the expectations of today’s buyers. Crucially, the two powertrains offer dis tinct personalities, giving customers a genu ine choice depending on their lifestyle. Whether you want the lively punch of the Turbo V or the smooth efficiency of the RS e:HEV, the HR-V remains a benchmark in the segment. In a market where new rivals emerge regularly, the HR-V’s ability to adapt and evolve ensures it stays relevant. It may not break new ground, but it reaffirms why Honda’s compact SUV has become such a staple of Malaysian roads – a blend of style, substance, and everyday usability that con tinues to strike the right balance. SPECIFICATIONS Turbo V Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine Power: 181 PS at 6,600 rpm, 240 Nm from 1,700 and 4,500 rpm Transmission: CVT Suspension: MacPherson strut (Front) / Torsion beam (Rear) Price: RM137,900 We like: Power delivery and comfort We don’t like: Fuel consumption could be better e:HEV RS Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC i-VTEC engine i VTEC (Atkinson Cycle) with electric motor Power: 107 PS from 6,000 to 6,400 rpm, 131 Nm from 4,500 to 5,000 rpm Transmission: e-CVT Suspension: MacPherson strut (Front) / Torsion beam (Rear) Price: RM137,900 We like: Driving range and comfort We don’t like: Droning noise during hard acceleration

8-inch touchscreen comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration..

1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with an electric motor.

New, sleeker full-LED tail light.

Comes equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver assistance systems. .

18 inch alloy wheels across all variants.

Ability to configure the rear seats in multiple ways.