Although the Honda HR-V is one of the most logical competitors in its segment, it's never been the most soul-stirring. It ticks all the practical boxes for a small family but simply doesn't turn heads in the same way as Korean rivals like the Kia Soul. That is set to change this year with the launch of the 2023 Honda HR-V. While a new HR-V has already debuted in Europe, we've known for some time that the US-bound HR-V will be totally unique. It turns out that Honda wasn't lying when it made this bold statement as it has just teased America's upcoming HR-V and it's a real looker.

Shown in a pair of digital sketches, the 2023 HR-V has undergone a dramatic transformation from neat but forgettable crossover to something far sportier. It's got muscular, squat proportions and a lot more presence than the current model. In front, there are sleek headlights with eye-catching daytime running lights, flanking a sporty grille and positioned below a sculpted hood. Along the sides, there are huge wheels that are likely to be smaller in size when the official images are revealed. At the back, the window appears more acutely angled than before, and there are large new taillight clusters.

Not only do we think that this new HR-V looks better than the previous model to be sold here, but it also has a more striking appeal than Europe's new HR-V pictured above. Of course, as these are mere sketches, the finished product is likely to be toned down a little. Honda revealed no technical information with these teasers, but we expect the 2023 HR-V to embrace electrification more so than its predecessor. In Europe, the new HR-V has an e:HEV powertrain with two electric motors paired with an i-VTEC gas engine.

The model will launch in North America sometime in 2022, dubbed as the 'Year of the Crossover' by Honda. That leads us to believe that there are more exciting Honda crossovers in store in a segment that continues to eat into sedan sales.