Sneak peek: New Honda HR-V and Ford EcoSport

Those who like the appeal of subcompact crossovers are currently spoiled for choice, with models running the gamut—from basic to sporty to premium.

Two of the pioneers of the current crop of B-size SUVs are up for a refresh: the Honda HR-V and the Ford EcoSport.

Here’s what we may see when the new models are revealed—the HR-V this week, and the EcoSport soon after.

Honda HR-V

A typically excellent passenger vehicle from Honda, the HR-V boosts its style factor, and upgrades its cabin to make it still a relevant entry.

If you like the styling of the new generation of Hondas—think Civic and CR-V—then the big H has something right up your alley.

The HR-V gets a new nose featuring multiple-LED headlamps, a dark chrome grille with honeycomb background, and LED foglights.

The door handles, too, get the dark chrome finish. Available glossy black chin accent and side skirt are evidence that Honda doesn’t expect you to take this for any type of off-roading.

New wheel designs complete the sporty look, blending well with the HR-V’s scalloped sides and coupé-like hidden rear door.

The HR-V cabin gets leather trims for the steering wheel, seats, and shift knob.

The literal centerpiece is a new 7-inch touchscreen with navigation function.

The audio unit now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Bluetooth connectivity.

It will still be the 1.8-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine, with an estimated 142 ps and 172 Nm. The four-cylinder mates to a CVT with paddle shift controls.

The HR-V will be equipped with vehicle stability assist, front and side airbags, ABS brakes, electric parking brake, and reverse camera.

Options include Modulo accessories, such as side step garnish and door visor.

Two new colors may join the HR-V pallette: bright orange and sporty red.

Price is expected to hover in the P1.3-million range for the base model, and the P1.5-million range for the higher variant.

Ford EcoSport

Ford’s best-selling EcoSport has as its main selling points its entertaining handling (as it’s based on the excellent Fiesta platform), cargo space, and its mini-SUV looks.

The SUV styling is intact, as the new EcoSport will retain the rear-mounted spare tire.

The front looks sleeker, thanks to reshaped headlamps flanking the Aston Martin-like grille.

LED daytime running lights will be available. There’s a subtle X-shaped element that spans the front bumper as well.

Under the hood will be a choice of two engines: a 1.5-liter, and a new 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine.

The transmission will be a six-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox. EcoSport will be riding on new 17-inch wheels.

We expect that the interior will sport big improvements in material quality and control layout.

The previous button-fest is replaced with a large touchscreen, mounted high on the instrument panel.

The control system for the top variant will be Sync 3, equipped with advanced voice command features, AppleCar Play and Android Auto.

Probably making its way on board the new EcoSport will be LED ambient lighting, automatic headlights, and auto climate control.

With the new upgrades, we expect that the new HR-V and EcoSport will remain fun, entertaining choices when you want to go small, but wish to retain most of the premium features that make driving more convenient and comfortable.