By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
Introducing the Honda ZR-V: A Mid-Size SUV in a Compact Package
The Honda ZR-V, often mistaken for the smallest in Honda’s SUV lineup, actually occupies a unique position between the smaller HR-V and the larger CR-V. After waiting for its arrival in the market, it’s clear that the ZR-V has earned its spot as a standout model in its class.
Styling: Sophistication in Simplicity
The ZR-V exudes a sophisticated look with a design that draws inspiration from the Maserati grille. Built on the platform of the Civic hatchback, the ZR-V is a capable five-seat, mid-sized crossover that comes in a variety of variants, both petrol and plug-in hybrid.
Priced starting at $39,900 for the VTi X model, the range extends up to $55,400 for the hybrid e:HEV LX.
Our review focuses on the ZR-V VTi LX at $49,900, which comes with an impressive array of standard features: 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, leather trim, dual-zone climate control, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, keyless entry, walk-away door locking, heated and ventilated seats, and more. This makes the ZR-V a standout in terms of comfort and convenience.
Infotainment: Advanced Connectivity
At the heart of the ZR-V’s infotainment system is a 9.0-inch touchscreen, offering integrated navigation, AM/FM radio, and support for Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Wireless charging and over-the-air updates provide seamless integration with modern technology.
Despite these features, we noted a minor inconvenience with Android Auto, which requires a wired connection to establish a stable link.
Safety: A Mixed Picture
Surprisingly, the ZR-V received only a four-star ANCAP safety rating, which is a little disappointing given the extensive list of safety features it comes with, including 11 airbags. Honda explains that a different front bumper beam, used for Australian models, affected the vehicle’s performance in certain test scenarios.
The ZR-V still offers robust safety features such as autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and tyre pressure monitoring.
Engines and Transmissions: Power and Efficiency
Powering the ZR-V is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission. This engine delivers 131 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque, providing quick acceleration and sufficient power for daily driving needs.
Officially, the fuel consumption rates at 7.2L/100km, but in our tests, we observed slightly higher consumption at around 8.0L/100km over a distance of 250km.
Driving Experience: Comfort and Control
The driving experience in the ZR-V is a blend of comfort and control. The cabin features soft-touch materials, a large instrument panel, and easy-to-use controls. Three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—offer adjustable performance settings.
Ride quality is particularly commendable given the ZR-V’s mid-size category. The suspension handles bumps well, and the car maintains a stable and composed demeanor even under spirited driving.
The CVT transmission operates smoothly, though manual gear shifting offers a marginally more engaging driving experience.
Tech and Sound System: High Expectations
The ZR-V boasts a premium Bose sound system with a 12-speaker configuration and a subwoofer. We were surprised not to find badges declaring its existence inside the car, suggesting a more subtle approach to premium features.
Combining Features and Value
The ZR-V’s standout features and amenities make it a compelling choice. However, the pricing is noticeably high for a mid-size SUV, especially when compared to other options in the market. This puts it in a challenging position, competing against more affordable Chinese models.
Nevertheless, the ZR-V offers a balanced combination of style, comfort, and technology, making it a solid contender in its class.
Ratings Summary
Here’s a quick overview of our ratings for the ZR-V:
- Looks: 7
- Performance: 7
- Safety: 7
- Thirst: 7
- Practicality: 8
- Comfort: 7.5
- Tech: 7.5
- Value: 6.5
- Overall: 7.2
Final Thoughts
The Honda ZR-V is a polished and functional vehicle that strikes a good balance between style, comfort, and technology. It offers a refined driving experience and a comprehensive list of features at prices that are aligned with its category.
However, the four-star safety rating and the premium pricing may give some buyers pause. Ultimately, the ZR-V positions itself well in a competitive market, providing a solid alternative for those seeking a modern mid-size SUV.
What are your thoughts on the Honda ZR-V? Do you think the pricing justifies the features and performance? Share your opinion in the comments below!
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