All-new 2027 Honda HR-V rendered: Debuting next year with Prelude-inspired styling and S+ Shift?

Reports from Japan suggest that the next-gen 2027 Honda HR-V is projected to make its debut sometime in late 2027 to 2028, per automotive media portal Repsonse JP.

Larger size, Prelude-inspired design

The third-generation model intends to preserve the crossover's established proportions—combining a planted lower profile with a coupe-style upper body. However, the footprint is said expand, with the body length increasing by 15mm and the wheelbase stretching by 30mm to maximize passenger legroom.

Renderings by Response reveal a sharper aesthetic heavily influenced by the sleek lines of the Honda Prelude coupe, featuring slim headlights wrapped in vertical LED daytime running lights and a prominent, horizontally slatted trapezoidal grille.

Some of the practical ways the HR'V's Multi-Utility seats can be used

Despite the redesign, it's worth betting that Honda won't forgo its characteristic 'Man Maximum, Machine Minimum' philosophy of interior practicality. Touches like its centre fuel tank layout and Multi-Utility Seats are likely to remain, keeping its versatile interior configurations.

Hybrid-only moving forward

Current HR-V's 1.5 turbo engine

Mechanically, the next-generation HR-V is said to mark a significant departure from standard petrol powertrains, shifting entirely to the brand's dual-motor e:HEV hybrid system - at least for the Japanese market.

The powertrain will pair a newly developed 1.5-litre inline four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine (producing 106 PS) with a primary electric drive motor delivering 131 PS, available in both front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive layouts.

This updated hybrid architecture is projected to push fuel economy up to 27.0–28.0 km/L, improving on the current generation's 26.0 km/L rating. Furthermore, the report states that Honda plans to integrate its "Honda S+ Shift" system.

Originally introduced on the Prelude, this software mimics the physical gear-stepping sensation of a conventional transmission to provide a sportier, more engaging driving experience without sacrificing the smooth power delivery inherent to the e:HEV layout.

2027 Honda HR-V to share Civic FE's Google Built-In system?

An example of the Google Built-In integration in the current Civic. Users are able to download apps off it, unlike Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

Response's article claims that the upcoming all-new 2027 HR-V will integrate Google Built-In into its infotainment system. Unlike traditional wireless smartphone mirroring (such as Android Auto), Google built-in runs directly on the vehicle's hardware without needing a connected phone.

Already available on the Malaysian-market Civic FE, it allows for a few native functions. For example, Google Assistant allows drivers to use voice commands to adjust cabin temperatures, make phone calls, manage media, or send messages hands-free, and Google Maps doesn't rely on your phone.

Market context: 2026 Honda HR-V pricing in Malaysia

Current-gen HR-V in Malaysia

While the new-gen, 2027 Honda HR-V is much-anticipated, the current-generation HR-V still has a lot to give. In Malaysia, there's four variants with three different powertrain configurations, with on-the-road prices sans insurance as below:

• Honda HR-V 1.5L S (Naturally Aspirated): RM 115,900
• Honda HR-V 1.5L Turbo E: RM 130,900
• Honda HR-V 1.5L Turbo V: RM 137,900
• Honda HR-V 1.5L e:HEV RS (Hybrid): RM 143,900

These prices exclude Honda Malaysia's ongoing rebates of up to RM 13,000 for the model, per its nationwide Double Bonanza Joy promotions.