Inside the refreshed Japanese SUV recently launched in Argentina

Honda's mid-size HR-V SUV received a significant update in the latter half of last year, marking a considerable leap in design and equipment for the Argentine market.

This updated generation is crucial for Honda, alongside the iconic Fit, in a competitive segment. The brand has seen remarkable success, increasing its sales by 45.2% in the first half of the year, selling 3,077 units, even as the overall new car market declined by 9.9%, according to data from the Argentine Association of Automobile Dealerships (Acara).

The HR-V is available in two versions: the LX entry-level model and the top-tier EXL, which was tested. Both share the same 1.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine producing 121 horsepower and 14.8 kgm of torque, paired with a CVT automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. While not built for high performance, this powertrain is adequate for daily driving.

The EXL model adds paddle shifters and a Sport mode for enhanced responsiveness when needed, such as during overtaking or highway merging. The interior of the EXL variant conveys a sense of quality, featuring comfortable seats upholstered in eco-leather, along with similar trim on the steering wheel and gearshift. The driving position is well-regarded, and the comfort features are comprehensive, including dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air vents, keyless entry and start, and one-touch power windows.