In order to stand out from the crowded crossover segment, carmakers have to create something really different and offer it at an attractive price point. And that’s what Honda Cars Philippines intends to do in order to shake up the market (or at least get noticed). The all-new HR-V is the newest member of its family, and it really does combine edgy styling and an extensive set of standard features.

As we’ve discussed in a previous article, our market will get the same HR-V that debuted in Japanese and select European markets early last year. This car has steeply raked A- and C-pillars, which should be plus points for customers who desire something that looks rather unique. Speaking of being seen, the HR-V is now more visible thanks to its full-width rear lightbar.

Initially launched in Indonesia, we guessed that our units would be coming from that country (since the Brio is manufactured there also). But Honda has confirmed that its stock will be sourced from Thailand.

It’s easy to understand the spec sheet of the all-new HR-V. There are only two variants to choose from: the S and the V Turbo. Key features standard across both trim levels include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 17-inch wheels, automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights, ABS, stability control, and Honda Sensing.

Just like with the all-new Civic, the Honda Sensing suite equipped in the HR-V has an extensive list of driver aids. There is adaptive cruise control (which even works in heavy traffic), lane-keep assist, forward-collision detection and braking, and automatic high beam. And don’t think that going for the cheaper entry-level car means that you miss out on the full list of toys: Both trim levels have the same version of Honda Sensing.

Speaking of the base HR-V, it’s equipped with a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter engine that’s good for 119hp and 145Nm, and is mated to a CVT. The range-topping grade gets a turbo that boosts output numbers to 175hp and 240Nm (again mated to a CVT). As expected, it also gets additional niceties like leather upholstery, a semi-digital gauge cluster, a mesh grille with a cheeky lightning-bolt accent, and rear-seat USB ports.

The prices for the all-new HR-V are:

• S CVT – P1,250,000
• V Turbo CVT – P1,598,000

You can have it in the following paint colors: Ignite Red, Meteoroid Gray, Platinum White Pearl (additional P20,000), and Premium Opal White Silver Pearl (V Turbo CVT only; additional P20,000).

Check out the specs below, and see if the all-new HR-V fits the bill for your new crossover.