The Honda Vezel is a compact hybrid SUV sold outside Japan as the Honda HR-V. It is roomy for its size thanks to Honda's "Magic Seats" (the rear seat bases flip up to carry tall items), cheap to run, and one of the most popular small SUVs exported from Japan.
Generations
| Generation | Years | Powertrain | Grades |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (RU) | 2013–2021 | 1.5 petrol, or 1.5 "Sport Hybrid i-DCD" with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox | Hybrid, Hybrid X, Hybrid Z, Hybrid RS |
| 2nd (RV) | 2021 onwards | 1.5 e:HEV two-motor hybrid | e:HEV X, Z, PLaY |
- Z is the well-equipped grade. RS (from 2016) is the sporty one with firmer suspension.
- Honda Sensing (automatic braking, adaptive cruise, lane keeping) became widely fitted from 2016. Listings name it, for example "Vezel Hybrid Z Honda Sensing".
- The 2nd-generation e:HEV works differently: the engine mostly charges the battery and an electric motor drives the wheels. It is smoother than the older dual-clutch hybrid.
What to Check
- Dual-clutch gearbox (1st generation hybrid): ask about judder when pulling away slowly. Early 2013–2014 hybrids had several software recalls; ask whether the recall work was done.
- Hybrid warning lights: ask whether the auction sheet mentions any.
- Honda Sensing camera and radar: a cracked windscreen or front-end repair can affect them.
- 4WD: some Vezels are 4WD. Make sure the listing matches the export certificate.
- Auction sheet: read how to read a Japanese auction sheet.
Age Limits: Which Countries Can Take One
Some countries cap the age of an imported car: Jamaica allows up to 5 years, Trinidad & Tobago 4 years, and Kenya and Guyana 8 years. The Bahamas, Barbados, Suriname, the Eastern Caribbean islands such as Saint Lucia and Antigua, Uganda and Tanzania have no strict age limit on our checker. Rules change, so always confirm with your clearing agent before you pay.
A 1st-generation Vezel from 2018 or later can go to Kenya and Guyana. A 2nd-generation e:HEV (2021 onwards) is new enough for Jamaica, and the newest ones for Trinidad.
The table at the bottom of this page applies each country's rule to our live stock and shows the cheapest delivered price. For the full list see import age limits by country, and for duty and port fees see how to calculate the total cost.
Comparing SUVs? Read CX-5 vs C-HR vs Vezel.