The Vezel e:HEV RS combines styling, interior, and handling upgrades with the standard self-charging hybrid powertrain
The compact SUV market in Japan has just gained a sharper entry. The Honda Vezel, known in Europe as the HR-V, now comes in a new RS trim that blends sportier styling and cabin details with upgraded chassis tuning. It continues to use the brand’s self-charging hybrid system, with buyers able to choose between front- or all-wheel drive.
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This latest addition builds on the current Vezel and HR-V generation introduced in 2021. A facelift followed in 2024, and the refreshed lineup has now been extended with the e:HEV RS.
Subtle Visual Drama
Visually, the model is differentiated by the special grille with the RS emblem, the sporty extensions on the front and rear bumpers with dark chrome inserts, and the matching side skirts. Furthermore, it rides on a set of 18-inch alloy wheels with a diamond-cut finish.
The exterior comes in five color choices, including the Premium Crystal Red Metallic shown here, though a two-tone finish isn’t on the menu. Inside, the cabin takes on a darker, sportier theme highlighted by red stitching and trim accents. Leather covers the steering wheel and gear selector, the roofliner is finished in black, and the seats feature Lux Suede inserts designed with anti-slip properties for better support.
Standard equipment is generous, including full LED headlights, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone A/C, wireless charging, a hands-free tailgate, and the Honda Sensing ADAS suite. The only options are the multi-view camera and the 10-speaker premium audio system.
Sharper Handling And Garage Clearances
The RS treatment is more than cosmetic. Honda has lowered the suspension and recalibrated the electric power steering for a sharper, more direct response. The reduced ride height also brings a practical perk for Japanese customers, cutting overall height from 1,580 mm (62.2 inches) to 1,545 mm (60.8 inches), which Honda says allows the SUV to slot into mechanical multi-story parking garages that would otherwise be off-limits.
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As with other RS-branded Honda models, the Vezel doesn’t get any power upgrades. The standard e:HEV powertrain cpairs a 1.5-liter petrol engine with two electric motors, one acting as a generator and the other driving the wheels. Together, they produce 129 hp (96 kW / 131 PS) and 253 Nm (186 lb-ft) of torque, with both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations available.
The Honda Vezel e:HEV RS will go on sale in Japan this October. The new variant is priced at ¥3,748,800 (equal to $25,500 at current exchange rates) for the FWD version and at ¥3,968,800 ($27,000) for the AWD. This means it is ¥480,700 ($3,300) more expensive than the e:HEV Z trim it is based on.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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