The Honda Vezel (facelift, introduced in 2018) 1.5 i-VTEC with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) represents a significant iteration of Honda’s popular subcompact crossover SUV. Produced from 2018 through 2022, this variant played a crucial role in Honda’s global strategy, particularly in the Asian market where the Vezel (sold as the HR-V in North America and Europe) gained considerable traction. This facelift brought styling updates, improved interior features, and refinements to the powertrain, solidifying the Vezel’s position as a competitive offering in the burgeoning subcompact SUV segment. The 1.5 i-VTEC CVT trim was positioned as a mainstream option, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate performance for daily commuting and family use.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Vezel |
| Generation | Vezel (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 i-VTEC (131 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm, 131.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 131 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4600 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | L15B |
| Engine displacement | 1497 cm3 (91.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73 mm (2.87 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.4 mm (3.52 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l (3.49 US qt | 2.9 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 3.63 l (3.84 US qt | 3.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1180 kg (2601.45 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4330 mm (170.47 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2610 mm (102.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 185 mm (7.28 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 95H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2018-2022 Honda Vezel 1.5 i-VTEC CVT is the L15B engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, focusing on efficiency and reduced emissions. The L15B utilizes direct injection, enhancing fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Honda’s intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) system. This system allows for variable valve timing and lift, optimizing engine performance across a wider RPM range. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a key component, designed to provide smooth, stepless gear changes and maximize fuel economy. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT uses a belt and pulley system to provide an infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 i-VTEC CVT configuration delivers a comfortable and efficient driving experience. With 131 horsepower and 155 Nm (114 lb-ft) of torque, acceleration is adequate for everyday driving situations, though not particularly sporty. The CVT is tuned for fuel economy, which means it tends to hold lower RPMs during cruising and moderate acceleration. This can sometimes result in a “rubber band” feel, where engine RPMs rise quickly under hard acceleration without a corresponding increase in speed. Compared to the more powerful 1.5L Turbo variants available in some markets, or even manual transmission versions, the CVT model prioritizes smoothness and fuel efficiency over outright performance. The CVT’s programming is geared towards minimizing engine load and maximizing MPG, making it well-suited for urban commuting and highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 i-VTEC CVT trim of the Vezel typically included standard features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system (often with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility), power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Safety features generally included ABS, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth in the base trims, with optional leather available on higher-spec models. Dashboard configurations were generally consistent across trims, with variations in trim accents and infotainment system features.
Chassis & Braking
The Vezel utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for a variety of road conditions. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes are typically solid discs. The steering system is an electric power steering (EPS) system, offering light and precise steering feel. The 16-inch wheels and 215/60 R16 tires contribute to a balanced ride and handling experience. Stabilizer bars are included both front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Vezel 1.5 i-VTEC CVT was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the CVT could feel sluggish during hard acceleration. Compared to other trims in the Vezel lineup, the 1.5 i-VTEC CVT offered the best fuel economy but the least amount of performance. The turbocharged variants provided more power and a more engaging driving experience, but at the cost of fuel efficiency. The 1.5 i-VTEC CVT was often seen as the sweet spot for buyers prioritizing practicality and economy over sporty performance.
Legacy
The L15B engine and CVT combination in the Honda Vezel has proven to be relatively reliable over the long term. While CVTs have historically been associated with potential issues, Honda’s CVT design has demonstrated good durability. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the CVT. In the used car market, the 2018-2022 Vezel 1.5 i-VTEC CVT remains a popular choice due to its fuel efficiency, practicality, and Honda’s reputation for reliability. It represents a well-rounded and dependable option for buyers seeking a subcompact crossover SUV.
