NEW YORK, April 17, 2014 /CNW/ - Honda will continue to expand its lineup of small cars aimed at the next generation of buyers with the summer launch of the 2015 Fit subcompact car and the all-new compact SUV, the Honda HR-V that will come to market this winter. Together the Fit and HR-V will represent a significant growth opportunity for Honda in Canada with both models produced at the automaker's newest North American manufacturing facility located in Celaya, Mexico, which allows for production flexibility to meet market demand.
"Both Fit and HR-V demonstrate how great things can come in small packages, and no one does this better than Honda," said Dave Gardner, vice president of sales and marketing, Honda Canada Inc. "We're creating an entirely new market segment with the HR-V that, together with Fit, will provide the gateway to the Honda brand for both first time new vehicle buyers, as well as long-time Honda loyalists."
All-New HR-V Compact SUV
Honda released the first official photos of the Canada-bound HR-V today at the New York International Auto Show. With sleek styling and expressive character lines, the HR-V is anticipated to launch this winter. Built on the same global compact platform that underpins the Fit, the HR-V will feature a versatile and spacious interior thanks to a unique centre tank layout. The HR-V will be equipped with the Honda-exclusive Magic Seat®, which allows for multiple seating configurations and the ability to fold the second row seat completely flat for added cargo space. The HR-V will serve as the entry point to the Honda light truck lineup, positioned below the CR-V in both price and size. Additional details about the HR-V will be announced later this year.
2015 Fit Sets Subcompact Benchmark
Launching nationwide this summer, the all-new 2015 Fit establishes a new benchmark in the subcompact segment. The Fit delivers a class-leading combination of interior space and feature content. With a long list of new standard and available features including a multi-angle rearview camera, Bluetooth® connectivity, expanded view drivers mirror, 7-inch Display Audio with HondaLink™ connectivity , heated front seats, leather seats, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation system and LaneWatch™ display, the Fit is an unparalleled offering in the sub-compact segment.
The new Fit is equipped with a more efficient and powerful Earth Dreams Technology™ 1.5-litre direct injected 4-cylinder engine. Available with either a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) or 6-speed manual, the 2015 Fit earns NRCan fuel economy ratings of 7.0/5.7/6.4 (city/hwy/combined)1 when equipped with the CVT in LX trim.
Retaining a similar exterior footprint to the outgoing model, the new Fit is slightly shorter (-41mm) and wider (+8 mm) with a longer wheelbase (+30 mm), resulting in improved handling and stability. Inside, the Fit delivers class-leading passenger space measuring 2710 L , an increase of 139 L compared to the previous model. Passengers sitting in the backseat will appreciate the Fit's abundant rear legroom, which increases by 122 mm to a best-in-class 998 mm. With the Honda-exclusive Magic Seat® offering multiple seating configurations, the Fit provides an unrivaled 1492 L of cargo space when the second row seats are folded flat.
Next-Generation ASIMO Makes Appearance
Showcasing Honda's commitment to advancing mobility of all forms, the new version of ASIMO (www.asimo.honda.com) made a special demonstration at the New York Auto Show, as a part of a week of activity in New York City.
ASIMO — which stands for Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility — features enhanced hand dexterity, including the ability to sign in both Japanese and American sign language, as well as the ability to run faster than previously, climb stairs more smoothly, hop, jump, balance on one foot, and transition seamlessly between walking and running, among other new and unique capabilities.
1 Estimated fuel economy based on Government of Canada's new 5-cycle testing method. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on driving habits and other factors - use for comparison only. For more information on 5-cycle testing, visit (http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy/efficiency/transportation/cars-light-trucks/buying/7491)
2 2014 Honda Fit fuel economy estimate based on Government of Canada's new 5-cycle testing method.
Image with caption: "Honda released the first official photos of the Canada-bound HR-V at the New York International Auto Show. With sleek styling and expressive character lines, the HR-V is anticipated to launch this winter. Built on the same global compact platform that underpins the Fit, the HR-V will feature a versatile and spacious interior thanks to a unique centre tank layout. (CNW Group/Honda Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140417_C4285_PHOTO_EN_39425.jpg
SOURCE: Honda Canada Inc.
Maki Inoue (905) 888-4416
Laura Heasman (905) 888-4586
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