With the exception of iconic sports models such as the NSX and S2000, Honda is most often associated with reliable saloons. The Honda HR-V e:HEV is in that very vein, but as its name suggests, it also has the appeal of a hybrid.

During the announcement, Honda executives emphasized their commitment to fully electrify their European models by the end of next year. Despite Honda's insistence at the launch that it wanted to create something new and add more appeal to the booming urban crossover segment, the new model lacks the vibrancy of the excellent Honda e, which won the German Car of the Year award in 2021. This is quite a feat for a Japanese car.

However, the Honda HR-V e:HEV looks to be perfect for its target market, especially buyers who like the high ride appeal of cars in the small SUV segment. Here is everything we know so far.

The Honda HR-V e:HEV will be available in Europe later this year, but at this point we can only register interest, not order. Similarly, pricing details have not yet been announced.

Honda has done the sensible thing with the design of the HR-V e:HEV, taking a streamlined, no-frills approach. The car uses the same "Global Small Car" platform as the Fit (known as the Jazz in the UK and Europe) and is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine working in conjunction with two electric motors. The result is a maximum output of 129 bhp and a maximum torque of 187 lb ft. The HR-V is actually a step above the Fit because of its larger vehicle size. Shifting is done autonomously or manually depending on three modes: eco, normal, and sport.

In terms of looks, the Honda follows the general vibe of its predecessor, but the new body style is certainly more dynamic, thanks to steeper A-pillars and higher cut lines. The front end is distinctive thanks to the sculpted bumper and body-colored grille. The hood is also nicely tailored to offer a more contemporary look. Honda, on the other hand, has increased ground clearance by 10 mm on the new model.

The rest of the exterior styling is similarly simple but effective. There is a full-width light bar at the rear, and the HR-V e:HEV has LED lights all around. Integrated door handles with electrostatic locks and integrated handles for the rear doors complete the design landscape very nicely.

The HR-V e:HEV's new cabin is open and airy and reasonably well equipped with technology.

The dashboard features a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen combined with a 7-inch TFT display, Apple CarPlay (via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cable) and Android Auto (via cable). In addition to smartphone mirroring, four USB ports (two of which are located in the rear) are available.

Driver assistance features via Wi-Fi hotspot, My Honda+, and the Honda Sensing system are also available as options. This is enhanced by a new, wider, high-definition monocular camera mounted on the front of the car, along with AI-based processing technology.

Honda also introduced a new air diffusion system with L-shaped vents on either end of the dashboard. This allows air to circulate more efficiently instead of blowing directly at the occupants. It's a small detail, but one that shows Honda's attention to detail. A finger rest is also provided for when using the touchscreen. In addition, by reducing the hierarchy of menus, the occupant's operating time when using the touchscreen has been reduced by 50%.

The Honda HR-V e:HEV uses the same gasoline-electric powertrain found in Honda's best-selling supermini, the Fit, but due to its size, the HR-V e:HEV's range and charging characteristics are likely to be less impressive.

Official numbers are not yet available, but the FIT delivers over 50 mpg gasoline economy, so expect something along the same lines. We will have to wait for the official announcement in a few months to see what the numbers will be for this European version of the hybrid vehicle.

Interior space will be of much interest in the new HR-V e:HEV. Honda is well known for its excellent Magic Seat, which can be easily transformed to accommodate any kind of passenger or cargo load; thanks to the design of the HR-V e:HEV, the battery pack is mounted under the trunk floor, allowing for 35 mm more rear legroom.

At the same time, trunk space has been enhanced, and Honda executives stress that the vehicle can easily carry two 26-inch mountain bikes or two pairs of surfboards. A low-maintenance tailgate and auto-closing feature add to the convenience. Despite the increased interior space, however, the HR-V e:HEV's overall length and width are the same as its predecessor.

Honda's latest addition to the small SUV segment doesn't dazzle with gimmicks, but it appears to offer admirable practicality.

It is unlikely to win "Car of the Year" from a German car like the brilliant Honda e, but it is a very difficult act to follow. It will be interesting to see what Honda will unveil as an update to the HR-V for the U.S. market.