Honda ZR-V unveiled in Japan; closely resembles the US-spec HR-V

KUALA LUMPUR: It seems Honda is on a roll this week, as the Japanese brand first introduced the next-gen CR-V in the US, followed by the new HR-V in Malaysia. And now, it pulled the wraps off the all-new ZR-V in Japan. We have already discussed the former two, so it’s time to explore the details of this new Honda SUV, which looks much similar to the US-spec HR-V.

For the unacquainted, the Honda HR-V available in the North American market does not connect with the all-new third-gen HR-V version, which has just launched in Malaysia. Rather, it slots in the C-segment category and shares its base with the upgraded Civic sedan. 

So, if you look at these two SUVs; the US-spec HR-V (pictured below) and the new Japan-spec ZR-V, you can figure out a lot of similarities in terms of overall design and features. However, the automaker tries to differentiate the two with a host of small changes.

For instance, the shape of the grille is largely the same, with vertical black slats on the ZR-V instead of a honeycomb mesh available on the US model. Also, a smother front bumper, body-coloured wheel arch protectors, and side skirts, chrome-tipped finishers are exclusive to the ZR-V.

Inside the cabin, a lot of stuff has been carried over from the American sibling, with differences like an absence of a bulky gear lever for the automatic gearbox, instead, the ZR-V gets a more modern layout featuring buttons. The Japanese model also features a burgundy interior theme with orange stitching that makes it distinguishable from the HR-V.

Keeping design aside, the two SUVs are completely different when it comes to the mechanical setup. While the North American HR-V runs on a 2.0-litre petrol engine making 158 hp and 187 Nm of torque, the ZR-V is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder hybrid setup borrowed from the Civic. The power figures of the latter are not yet available, however, it is confirmed that the drivetrain will be available with both all- and front-wheel drive, unlike the Civic’s setup, which comes only in front-wheel drive. The ZR-V will also be offered with 1.5-litre gasoline set up in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Honda Japan will commence showing the new ZR-V to the public next month, with deliveries expected to begin later this year.

Also read: 2023 Honda Civic Type R finally gets a debut date