Honda HR-V spotted ahead of imminent launch - Malaysia

To be imported from Indonesia.

The Honda HR-V (Honda Vezel in some markets) compact crossover SUV has been spotted by Paultan's reader Mr. Choo Kok Foong, during a TVC shoot in Malaysia, signalling an imminent launch in the country. The local media reports that the Jazz-based crossover goes on sale in the first quarter of 2015.

[Head to Youtube if you can't watch the video.]

The car is expected to be imported from Indonesia with production starting in January. For the Malaysian market, the HR-V will be available with two engines. The base 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine is borrowed from the City and Jazz and produces 120 PS (118.3 bhp) and 145 Nm of torque.

The range-topping 1.8-litre four-cylinder petrol motor develops a more generous 139 PS and 169 Nm. Both motors will come paired to a stepped CVT automatic unit with paddle shifters. The 1.5-litre unit is also available with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Also read: India-bound 2015 Honda CR-V launched in Australia

The Honda HR-V is unlikely to make it to India since Honda Cars India is reportedly working on a cost-effective crossover based on the Brio platform to mount a better assault on the Ford EcoSport.

[Spyshot from Paultan]