PIMS 2022: Honda Cars PH launches HR-V RS, priced at Php 1.739M

Aside from doing a preview of the all-new 2nd generation of the Honda BR-V, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) has finally introduced the top-spec variant of its HR-V subcompact crossover offering, officially named the Honda HR-V 1.5 RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING.

Held at the 2022 Philippine International Motor Show (PIMS), the introduction of the HR-V RS Turbo comes roughly five months after the local launch of the S and V Turbo variants. So what sets this apart from lower variants of the HR-V? 

For both the exterior and interior, the HR-V RS gets aesthetic enhancements over the lower variants, typical of RS variants in Honda’s local lineup. In front, it still gets a mesh grille like the V, but this time with chrome inserts. Its body cladding is finished in gloss black while its “Amp-up” line on the lower grille is finished in red.

It also gets larger 18-inch gunmetal gray alloy wheels, smoked taillight lenses, a blacked-out roof, sequential LED front turn signals, and RS badging on the grille and tailgate. Other equipment such as the full LED headlights, LED fog lights, LED taillights, shark fin antenna, and power-folding mirrors remain as standard on the HR-V RS.

Inside, there are also some visual enhancements for the HR-V RS. It gets red stitching on the seats and steering wheel, sport pedals, a new 8-speaker audio system, auto up/down front passenger window, 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and dual-zone automatic climate control. It still gets the same 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Under the hood of the Honda HR-V RS is the same engine from the V. That is a 1.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo that produces 177 horsepower and 240 Nm of torque, paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). HCPI is still not introducing an e:HEV version despite competition like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Nissan Kicks both having electrified powertrains.

Safety is also upgraded. Other than the usual Dual Front and Side Airbags, ABS, EBD, Agile Handling Assist, Hill Descent Control, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, and ISOFIX Childseat Anchors which all come as standard, the HR-V RS gets Side Curtain Airbags.

Of course, it is also fully-equipped with Honda SENSING, the brand’s suite of advanced driver-assistance technology. This gives it Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation System with Lane Departure Warning (RDM with LDW), Auto High-Beam (AHB), Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow (ACC with LSF), and Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN), with the addition of Honda’s LaneWatch Camera here on the RS.

The 2023 Honda HR-V 1.5 RS Turbo CVT Honda SENSING is now available at all 37 Honda car dealerships nationwide with a suggested retail price of Php 1,739,000. Available colors are Ignite Red Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl (RS exclusive), and Premium Opal White Silver Pearl.