HONDA

Honda Vezel e:HEV RS

The Honda Vezel (known in Europe as the HR-V) will be available in Japan from October in a new RS version, which combines sportier styling, a refined interior and a modified suspension.

The Vezel e:HEV RS uses a hybrid system, and buyers will be able to choose between front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Visually, the model is distinguished by a special grille with the RS emblem, sporty extensions on the front and rear bumpers with dark chrome inserts and matching side sills. In addition, there is a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.

Five colors are available, including Premium Crystal Red metallic.

Inside, the cabin gets a darker, sportier theme highlighted by red stitching and details. The steering wheel and gear lever are covered in leather, the headliner is black, and the seats have Lux Suede inserts.

Standard equipment is extensive, including full LED headlights, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, hands-free tailgate opening and the Honda Sensing ADAS package. The only options are a multi-view camera and a 10-speaker premium audio system.

As with other RS-branded Honda models, the Vezel doesn’t get any power upgrades. The standard e:HEV powertrain cpairs a 1.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors, one acting as a generator and the other driving the wheels. Together, they produce 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS) and 253 Nm (186 lb-ft) of torque, with both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations available.

The RS treatment is more than cosmetic. Honda has lowered the suspension and recalibrated the electric power steering for a sharper, more direct response. The reduced ride height also brings a practical perk for Japanese customers, cutting overall height from 1,580 mm (62.2 inches) to 1,545 mm (60.8 inches), which Honda says allows the SUV to slot into mechanical multi-story parking garages that would otherwise be off-limits.

Honda has also lowered the suspension and recalibrated the electric power steering for a sharper, more direct response.

The Vezel e:HEV RS hasn’t gained any more power, though. The standard e:HEV powertrain combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors, one of which acts as a generator and the other drives the wheels. Together, they produce 96 kW/131 hp and 253 Nm of torque.

The Honda Vezel e:HEV RS will go on sale in Japan next month. The new variant costs 3,748,800 yen (21,605 euros) for the front-wheel drive version and 3,968,800 yen (22,870 euros) for the four-wheel drive version.

Autonews