Originally introduced in China and Japan last year, the Honda ZR-V has now arrived in Europe as well, where it will reside between the HR-V and the CR-V in the lineup.
The new hybrid system called e:HEV comes from the technically identical Civic: a 2.0-liter petrol engine operating in an Atkinson cycle mainly just provides the power for two electric motors. When rapid acceleration is required, however, it can drive the front wheels, assisting the main e-motor (the other one functions as a starter-generator). The combined output amounts to 184 PS (181 hp / 135 kW) and 315 Nm (232 lb-ft) of torque.
Judging by the images, the European spec will arrive in two main trim versions. One has a front grille with vertical bars, like the ZR-V for Japan. the other one has a honeycomb grille like the China-spec ZR-V and the North American HR-V. The bumpers also have their share of distinctions. The interior, on the other hand, looks largely identical to that of the Civic.
The automaker is targeting the ZR-V towards younger audiences seeking a powerful, stylish and practical car. Honda even explicitly says that ‘Z’ is for ‘Zoomer’. With a trunk size of 1,291 liters (45.6 cubic feet), it indeed shapes up to be rather practical.
The new car is already listed on the brand’s official websites in Europe. The sales will start later this year.