The Honda HR-V has been facelifted for should be launched in South Africa shortly before the end of 2018. As one of the more spacious contenders in the highly competitive compact family car category, the Honda has broad appeal…

The facelifted Honda HR-V has already gone on sale in some countries, such asThailand and Japan, and incorporates some small changes to the exterior design, additional specification and new safety technology, although the exact specification for our market has yet to be confirmed. When theHR-V was launched in South Africa back in 2015, it impressed us with its practical Magic Seat system, good looks and reasonable spec. It was priced competitively too and so well-received that it was named a semifinalist in the Compact Family Car category of the Cars.co.za Consumer Awards–powered by WesBank for both the 2016/17 and 2017/18 instalments of the awards programme.

For 2018, the Honda HR-V has gained a bolder, more contemporary front end, replete with a honeycomb mesh grille, new headlights (ostensibly full LED units), repositioned daytime running lights and a new colour called Passion Red Pearl, seen here. There are also new 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and optional panoramic sunroof.

The updated specification (in overseas markets) sees the addition of blind spot warning and autonomous emergency braking system. It appears that the infotainment system has also received a makeover – we'd be very surprised if it won't be Android Auto/Apple Carplay compatible.

There's no mention of whether the 1.5-litre engine is still available, but the 104 kW/172 Nm 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol motor appears to have been carried over. Power goes to the front wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Further reading:

Honda BR-V Revealed

Honda HR-V Video Review and Comparison

Honda HR-V (2015) First Drive

Honda CR-V (2017) Launch Review

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