Honda HR-V takes a rugged turn for U.S.

Honda is gearing up to launch this year the next-generation HR-V — the top-selling subcompact crossover in the U.S. in 2021 — and teaser images suggest it will have more rugged exterior styling than the outgoing model.

Honda rolled out a redesigned 2022 model for global markets last year but said North America would have to wait for a unique version. The crossover, called the Vezel elsewhere, was launched as a standard hybrid in Japan and Europe.

Honda is calling 2022 "the year of the crossover" in North America, as it seeks to increase light-truck sales to satisfy consumer demand and command higher transaction prices.

The brand's most popular crossover, the compact CR-V, is also slated for a redesign this year. And the automaker recently freshened the Passport midsize crossover with more off-road styling.
 

The second-generation HR-V will launch in the U.S. as a 2023 model. Although the vehicle is uniquely styled for North America, Honda did not offer any mechanical details.

Honda is planning a bigger push into hybrids, but not on all vehicles.

The current HR-V in the U.S. dates from the 2016 model year, when the nameplate debuted in response to growing consumer interest in small crossovers. The 2022 model has a 141-hp engine and optional all-wheel drive. Pricing starts at $23,095 with shipping.

It is Honda's third-bestselling crossover in the U.S., behind the CR-V and Pilot.

Last year, Honda sold a record 137,090 HR-Vs, a 63 percent increase from the previous year, the company said.