We reported a couple of weeks back that Honda was readying to pull the manual transmission option for the new edition of its HR-V. This week the company released further details on the 2019 version of the popular subcompact crossover. The information concerns the American release of the model, but the Canadian versions are expected to follow suit, with a possible few exceptions.
Honda confirms that the manual gearbox, previously only offered on the front-wheel drive base model, is now off the menu. Apple CarPlay and Android Audo compatibility is now available, and the navigation system in the Touring variant gets optimized graphics, with points of interest displayed in 3D.
As we’ve seen with a number of new models lately, the audio volume knob is back, replacing the needlessly complicated touchscreen command Honda had introduced a few years ago. Clearly the automaker has been listening to motorists who have complained that the process of raising or lowering the volume level via the central console was so long and convoluted as to make it dangerous to attempt while driving.
The EX versions and up will get the Honda Sensing suite of safety systems as standard equipment.
In terms of design, the 2019 HR-V will get some light refreshments both inside and out. In front, the bumper, headlights and front grill have all been retouched, while the read end gets modified taillights. The overall effect is to make the HR-V look more like a CR-V writ small.
The 2019 Honda HR-V is expected to arrive at dealerships before the summer is out.
