The RS featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, black chrome grille, a honeycomb lower grille and foglight garnish; black door mirror caps; dark chromed door handles; and a Piano Black body kit.
Inside, the new HR-V RS has heated, leather-appointed seats; a leather-wrapped sports steering wheel and gear knob; and alloy sports pedals.
Driving dynamics are improved by sportier damper and spring rates for flatter cornering, extra control and reduced body roll.
In an interesting move the RS has a new variable steering gear ratio of 2.38:1 compared to the 2.79:1 of the other in the HR-V range.
However, the new Honda RS doesn’t have any more performance as there are no changes to the HR-V’s standard 1.8 litre, i-VTEC four-cylinder engine. It continues to produce a useful 105 kilowatts of power, with torque of 172 Newton metres.
All HR-V models have a CVT automatic transmission, but it now has stepped ratios at full throttle to give a sporty feel without taking too much away from the efficiency of the system. There are paddle shifters on the new RS model if the driver doesn’t agree on the ratio chosen by the computer.
The introduction of the RS brings the 2018 HR-V range to four model grades: VTi, VTi-S, new RS and VTi-LX.
Change to the style across the HR-V range tie in with successful shape of the Honda Civic. Key to this are a new front bumper and grille across the range, along with LED headlamps from the VTi-S upwards.
Satellite navigation is standard across the range. Honda’s LaneWatch system is standard from VTi-S model upwards.
New-design front seats for RS and VTi-LX provide improved comfort and additional insulation for a quieter cabin in RS and VTi-LX.
We will comment on this when we borrow a new Honda HR-V, or two, and carry out our usual extensive week’s road test.
MODEL RANGE
VTi: $24,990
VTi-S: $27,990
RS: $31,990
VTi-LX: $34,590
Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Honda dealer for drive-away prices.
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