1. Honda HR-V 2019: made in Nigeria, for Nigerians!

On Thursday 16th, 2019, the Honda Automobile Western Africa Ltd. (HAWA) in Lagos unveiled the new Honda HR-V 2019 version, which is a product specially made for Nigeria and in Nigeria. The 2019 entry level SUV was assembled in Nigeria, marking Honda's commitment to local manufacture. The new SUV faces stiff competition from other compact SUVs  in the likes of Mazda CX-3.

This Nigerian debutante faces tough competition from popular sub-compact SUVs

This vehicle was launched at the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino, Lagos and is aimed at changing the usual auto standards for entry level SUVs in Nigeria. The vehicle is targeted at dominating the market for SUVs in the country. This Hi-Rider Revolutionary-Vehicle (HR-V) was assembled in Nigeria and is a product that is very suitable for a beginner SUV buyer. Honda says that lower income Nigerians now have the option to experience the same smooth rides enjoyed in other varieties of Honda products such as the Honda Passport that possesses a 3.5litre engine and the Honda CR-V that comes with a 2.4Litre engine. The Honda HR-V coasts to town with a 1.8Litre engine.

Thus, the Managing Director of Honda Automobile Western Africa Ltd., Akihiro Daido has added that the HR-V will not only possess luxury, it will also be affordable for its many customers in Nigeria.

In addition to this, The Honda Place (THP) which has been in mechanical partnership with HAWA for about 26 years, speaks about obtaining and maintaining Honda products in the country. The Managing Director, Arun Rishi, remarked:

We thrive not only in guaranteeing the joy of buying for the customers or the joy of selling for the dealership or the joy of creating for the manufacturer but essentially, the joy of sustaining the product useable history, using our unrivaled after sales service support facilities located strategically across the country.

2. Styling overview of Honda HR-V 2019

The subcompact crossover Honda Hi-Rider Revolutionary-Vehicle (HR-V) powerfully embraces youthfulness, sport, and the modern in its styling.

2.1. Honda HR-V 2019 Exterior design

The car’s exterior is boldly designed with the latest modern features for safety and performance, which can best be described as what major crossover SUVs look like. This entry-level car provided for Nigerians comes in two trims which are the premium trim, Honda HR-V EX and the base Honda HR-V LX; each line up is supplied with different features that enhance riding and are user friendly for Nigeria users, especially for new drivers.

While having a curb weight of 1312lb for the HR-V EX and about 1253lb for the HR-V LX, the exterior has perfectly fitted curves, lines, and edges that makes it body more elegant and at the same time rugged. The HR-V has a mutual LED Day Time Running Light (DRL), the full light which is also LED and the LED fog light which is also made effective day and night perceptibility. This is also one of its safety features. There is also an additional auto-retractable feature in the side mirror that is exclusively provided for the EX trim version.

Fine lines and curves make this a beautiful entry level SUV

2.2. Honda HR-V 2019 Interior deco

Going away from the exterior, the interior of the car is stunning in all black and also provided with modern design and structure.  For both trims, the car has a smart entry and push button that permits the entry into your car, making use of your smart key.  On the dashboard of the car stands a 6.8" Touchscreen that comes with features such as USB, Blue tooth connectivity and audio compatibility for great entertainment.

There is also automatic and manual air conditioning which varies according to trim levels. Moreover, Honda provided the car with electric parking brake & brake hold which assists in driving through any ‘stop and go traffic’. The sunroof provided at the top of the car makes for airy driving while still maintaining comfort.

Honda HR-V 2019 interior looks smart & convenient

3. Seating and cargo space of the Honda HR-V 2019

The car is a 5 sitting vehicle with well-placed leather upholstery for the EX trim and fabric texture for the LX trim. Having a rear seat suitable for three passengers, Honda said it has equipped it with comfortable leg space to prevent stiffness and also a headrest for more relief. 

For the cargo space of the car is moderately provided and car owners have the privilege to fold the seats 60/40 to provide more space for cargo. Honda also introduced a feature known as the ‘magic seat’ with three modes known as the ‘tall, long and utility mode’ for the HR-V. By lifting up your seat, you get to store more items under your Honda HR-V rear seats.

The multifoldable seats can easily give this 5-seater the capacity of a 7-seater

4. Security and Safety features of Honda HR-V 2019

Available safety and security features provided for Nigerian drivers driving the Honda HR-V 2019 are:

• Side Curtain SRS Airbag System   
• Hill Start Assist (HSA)   
• Key Alarm
• Antilock Brake System (ABS)   
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA with off Mode)   
• Brake Override System (BOS with a warning)   
• SRS Airbag System provided for the driver & his passengers.   
• Anti-Key in locking   
• ECU Immobilizer   
• ISO-FIX (Rear Seat)   
• Emergency Stop Signal

Honda's unique safety features equip the HR-V with Honda Sensin from EX trim up

5. Honda HR-V 2019 performance & price

Both trim versions of the car have no difference in terms of engine as both have a 1.8Liter of an in-Line 4-Cylinder that gives out a maximum horsepower of 140.8 @ 6500 with a maximum torque of 172 @ 4300. The two versions are both a 2-wheel drivetrain with complete petrol powered, and automatic Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT).

Honda has not released the price of this particular Honda HR-V launched in Nigeria but the price is likely to vary according to trims. You may decide to buy a used HR-V on such car buying & selling platforms as Naijauto, Jiji or Cheki though the new model is supposed to be affordable. Below are the possible new prices of Honda HR-V, the used foreign price, and Nigeria used prices of old models.

*MSRP: Manufacturer's suggested retail price, excluding tax or delivery fees...

This SUV is certain to do very brisk business in Nigeria given its possible price, low cost maintenance and the features it has to offer.

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