The new Honda ZR-V compact SUV will be available from fall 2023. Situated between the HR-V and CR-V models, it is 456 cm long, 184 cm wide and 162 cm high. The trunk has a cargo volume of 380 liters, expandable up to about 1,300 liters. The new bet of the Japanese firm will compete with cars like the Nissan Qashqai, the Hyundai Tuscon or the Renault Austral.
At an aesthetic level, it has few similarities with the rest of the products in the Honda catalog. At the front, the grille is relatively small and the slim headlamps have L-shaped daytime running lights; At the rear, the horizontal lights exhibit rounded shapes, far from the current trend of other manufacturers that make angular and very marked lines. In order to optimize aerodynamics, the car mounts a lower fairing, air curtains in the front bumper towards the wheels or the rear spoiler on the roof.
As for mechanics, it is equipped with Honda's full hybrid technology, already incorporated in the Civic e:HEV. Optimized for the ZR-V, Honda's e:HEV system's efficient and powerful 2.0 direct-injected four-cylinder engine works in conjunction with two electric motors (generator and booster) to deliver punchy, responsive acceleration. The car develops a total of 184 hp and 315 Nm.
The dashboard has a design similar to that of the Civic, with which it shares instrumentation, climate control controls and a 9-inch central screen. The only thing that changes is the console between the seats, higher in the ZR-V and with a lower tray. Occupants can charge their mobile devices wirelessly.
The brand highlights that the passenger compartment offers high levels of comfort and convenience. High-quality, soft-touch materials and details combine with stylish lighting throughout the cabin to create a premium ambience.
“The new Honda ZR-V has been conceived and designed to be compatible with active lifestyles and is an attractive addition to our SUV lineup,” explains Yutaka Kato, ZR-V Large Project Leader, who noted that “the Combining everyday functionality, outstanding comfort levels and attractive design with sporty dynamics, our exceptional e:HEV hybrid powertrain is the perfect evolution of our European model range.”
