The Honda CR-V has been a popular and enduring model but its time has come. From this month, in Japan for now, this model is being replaced in the Honda line-up by the new ZR-V, seen in our pictures. There’s no radical surprises here; it is another SUV-type vehicle, updated for the modern electric world. This car will come to the UK but not until 2024, we learn, but it will definitely be a hybrid. The details below pretty much encapsulate the vehicle’s specification, but some trim levels and engine variations may differ come next year’s UK launch.
On The Outside
Recognisably a Honda, the ZR-V exterior design features flowing proportions characterized by large, smooth surfaces that flow from front to rear. The look of the front end features a vertical grille, designed in concert with surrounding areas, and sharp-looking, wide-set headlights that flow horizontally. These features create a fairly minimalist appearance, making the car look broad and powerful.
The rear of the body is shaped to emphasize the vehicle’s wide tread by adding volume around the lower reaches, with a smooth, upswept look.
All ZR-V models will be equipped with the latest features of the Honda ‘SENSING 4’ safety and driver-assistance system. The front wide-view camera system features a wide-angle lens with an effective horizontal viewing angle of approximately 100 degrees and a high-speed image processing chip to enhance the detection accuracy of objects for Collision Mitigation Braking System and other applications.
The sonar sensors mounted in four locations on both the front and rear bumpers will detect objects such as exterior walls of buildings and glass at close range with a high level of accuracy they say, contributing to the suppression of false starts due mostly to the driver hitting the accelerator by mistake, as well as avoiding collisions. In addition, radar built into the rear bumper detects vehicles approaching from behind within 25 meters, and the system alerts the driver of the presence of a vehicle diagonally behind with indicators in the door mirror. This Blind Spot Information seems likely to be a standard feature of Honda SENSING for the ZR-V in the UK.
On The Inside
The interior is typically Honda so expect a good standard of build quality and, overall, of reliability. The dashboard features an instrument panel that stretches out horizontally in a linear fashion. Overall, the interior design will feature a functional and precise finish, creating a high-quality interior space. In addition, a high-deck centre console between the driver and front passenger seats offers the right amount of “personal space” for both driver and front passenger.
The audio system equipped with twelve speakers was developed jointly with BOSE to be best suited to the cabin environment of the ZR-V. The surround sound will, we are told, offer realistic sensations and a comfortable listening experience less likely to be affected by changes in driving conditions, enabling all occupants to enjoy the realistic sound experience as if they are inside a concert hall. It will be interesting to hear what a Motorhead album streaming will sound like!
On The Road
Honda say that in development the highest priority was to give greater sense of confidence and enjoyment when driving this vehicle. To this end, the Honda have strived to realize a driving experience with a sense of feel, as if the driver’s intentions are directly translated into vehicle behaviour. Unnecessary vehicle movements and noises are they say thoroughly suppressed, and a high level and constant ground contact and handling offers greater peace of mind for all occupants.
The Power
The hybrid model of the all-new ZR-V will be the first Honda SUV to be equipped with the Sport e:HEV2 set-up that combines a 2.0 litre direct injection engine and an advanced 2-motor hybrid system driving through an e-CVT gearbox. This arrangement will deliver improved fuel economy, low emission performance and quietness while also realizing powerful acceleration comparable to a V6 3.0-litre engine, according to Honda. The all-new ZR-V will thus offer a high-quality, exhilarating driving experience in various driving situations including driving on city and suburban roads, highways and winding roads. Note that it remains to be seen which engine option will ultimately arrive in the UK, but as Honda only now sell hybrids here, then this power-train seems likely.
Real-time all-wheel-drive is available by optimizing distribution of front and rear driving force, delivering good grip even while driving on slippery surfaces such as snowy roads. Moreover, the increase in rear-wheel driving force enables the driver to start and accelerate with confidence even on slippery hills.
Four drive modes will be available to suit the conditions: SPORT mode, NORMAL mode, ECON mode and SNOW mode, the latter suppresses the amount of driving force transmitted in response to depressing the accelerator pedal and supports the driver to achieve a smooth start and acceleration even on sketchy road surfaces.
There will be more to come on this SUV from the Japanese brand. In the meantime, why not get in touch with here at MHH and find out how to import Honda vehicles from the UK to various global destinations like Kenya and New Zealand.
