Honda Hints at Hybrid HR-V and Acura ADX, But Cost Is a Hurdle

Honda says there’s no clear reason why hybrid versions of the HR-V and Acura ADX couldn’t happen, but it’s not confirming any concrete plans. The company’s product planning chief, Gary Robinson, told Auto News at Monterey Car Week that the decision ultimately comes down to making the numbers work.

“We won’t talk about when and if hybrids are coming in those vehicles, but I don’t know that there’s any reason why not,” he said. “It’s a cost-conscious segment so there’s always a little bit of a challenge there, specifically on the Honda side.”

Adding hybrid powertrains to these two smaller crossovers would help Honda catch up with rivals like the Kia Niro, Subaru Crosstrek, and Toyota Corolla Cross, which already offer hybrid options. Honda already has hybrid systems in the CR-V, Accord, and Civic that could potentially be adapted.

In other markets, Honda sells a hybrid HR-V, but that version differs from the U.S. model. American Honda sales boss Lance Woelfer noted that the company has focused hybrids on high-volume, high-margin vehicles so far, which may explain the HR-V’s exclusion.

The luxury market’s shift toward electrification could push the Acura ADX to get a hybrid first. Robinson said Honda expects “an even higher percentage of electric vehicles in the luxury segment going forward,” which might give the ADX the incentive it needs. Carscoops has reached out to Honda for more details on future hybrid plans.