Honda is getting ready to debut an entirely new version of its smallest crossover and has released a teaser sketch previewing what it will look like. The 2023 Honda HR-V sketches show a vehicle that looks like a massive departure from the current model in appearance and appeal.
The automaker isn't saying much about the new model other than it will launch in Canada this year. Honda is calling this the "year of the crossover," suggesting that an all-new HR-V won't be the only nameplate from the brand to get a replacement in 2022. The popular Honda CR-V and Pilot are also slated for overhauls.
Teaser drawings show a more aggressive nose with a large open grille, more like the Honda Ridgeline than the Civic. It looks sportier with air intakes below the grille and a sleek rear end that could almost have come from the Acura Integra Prototype. Slim LED taillights give it more of a cohesive design theme with the Civic, and the teaser sketches show a snowboard attached to a roofline that looks much less upright than the larger CR-V.
While not an exact copy, these drawings do show a strong resemblance to the HR-V that was launched last year in Europe and Japan. Badged the Vezel in those markets, Honda has previously said that North America would get a model more suited to our needs with distinct features and powertrains, but it will likely look almost exactly the same as the European and Japanese models.
The global HR-V is sold with gas and hybrid drivelines, both using 1.5L engines. With Honda discontinuing the Fit in 2020, the HR-V is the entry-level for many into the brand.
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