Honda Cars Philippines Inc (HCPI) greeted the New Year with one heck of a surprise. After launching the Civic e:HEV last year, HCPI is set to expand its electrified lineup after holding a special preview of the 2025 HR-V e:HEV.

The new e:HEV variant is part of the HR-V's 2025 model year update for the Philippine market, which also sees a revised crossover lineup. But before we get ahead, let's take a look at what to expect in the HR-V e:HEV.

Like the CR-V and Civic, the HR-V e:HEV is powered by the brand's innovative two-motor hybrid system that's powered by a lithium-ion battery pack. But instead of a 2.0L under the hood, the HR-V e:HEV gets a smaller 1.5L four-cylinder engine. Despite the smaller displacement, the 1.5L hybrid powertrain delivers a combined system output of 131 PS and 253 Nm of pull.

The new 1.5L e:HEV hybrid system will only be offered in the top-of-the-line RS. But what about the rest of the lineup? The S variant is no more, as the base model now starts with the V model. The 1.5L VTEC Turbo has also been discontinued, as the V version is now powered by the 1.5L naturally-aspirated i-VTEC engine that produces 121 PS and 145 Nm of pull. Power is then transferred to a CVT.

Style-wise, the 2025 HR-V gets subtle yet distinct changes. All variants now come with massive 18-inch alloy wheels while the front grille gets a more upright and wider design. The e:HEV variant even gets a unique grille design. Last but not least, the LED taillights feature a smoked finish for a more sophisticated look.

Hop inside and some might say the interior has been largely carried over. However, one may notice the 2025 HR-V now gets a redesigned center console that's more practical and can hold more items. Meanwhile, the automatic climate control now supports dual-zone functionality. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system gets a fresh new look and now comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other new changes introduced in the 2025 HR-V include a wireless charging pad, full-leather upholstery across the range, a power tailgate (e:HEV RS only), a power-adjustable driver's seat, Honda Connect, and Honda Sensing.

No exact pricing has been revealed yet although Honda did say the 2025 HR-V's image pricing will span from PHP 1.6 million to PHP 1.9 million.