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Aug 08, 2023

Mugen Honda HR

For those unaware, Mugen is to Honda what AMG is to Mercedes-Benz, so news of a new Mugen-tuned machine can cause quite some excitement in the automotive world — just think of the recent Civic Type-R

For those unaware, Mugen is to Honda what AMG is to Mercedes-Benz, so news of a new Mugen-tuned machine can cause quite some excitement in the automotive world — just think of the recent Civic Type-R rework for example. However, this, unfortunately, cannot be said for the HR-V (also known as the VEZEL in Japan), which is Honda’s middle-of-the-pack family SUV. So, to bring some jazz to the HR-V, Mugen has put its team to work to create its interpretation of the newly-revised 4×4.

The hybrid-only HR-V combines an electric motor and a standard 1.5-liter petrol engine to deliver 129 BHP and a less measly 187lb.-ft of torque, which is more than enough for a car that’s used for commuting and school runs, as opposed to the super-SUVs that frequent automotive news as of late. Surprisingly, Mugen’s involvement doesn’t add any more power to the HR-V, but it does give the SUV a considerable visual update.

At the front, you’ll find a Mugen-branded grille lip and a small lower-front-bumper lip, as well as a side garnish that lends itself to the extended side skirts and a carbon fiber license plate holder. Working your way around the car, a new set of 18-inch rims offset the HR-V nicely, adding a sporty look to it. There’s a new covering for the wing mirrors, ventilation clips on the windows, and towards the rear, a roof spoiler, wing spoiler, tailgate spoiler, a rear under spoiler, and a new set of twin tailpipes — all available as optional extras from Mugen’s catalog. The exhaust silencer offers a more sporty grumble from the hybrid engine, while a high-performance air filter can also be equipped as the only true engine “upgrade” on offer.

Take a look at the Mugen Honda HR-V (VEZEL) above, and head over to Mugen’s website to purchase your desired upgrades.

Elsewhere in the automotive world, Cadillac has unveiled the production version of its Lyriq EV.