Honda ZR-V Test Drive: A spacious crossover that embodies the spirit of a sporty hatchback.

Global markets demand that automakers continue to produce new crossovers: large, small, sporty, and comfortable. However, some brands are not backing down and are even trying to give SUV models distinctly sedan-like traits and characteristics. Honda ZR-V is one such example. More details can be found in the test drive from RBC-Ukraine Auto.

Complex History

The current generation of the Honda ZR-V represents a new class for the Japanese brand. Sales of the vehicle first began in the United States, where it is marketed under the name HR-V. The powertrains also vary depending on the market. In our region, it comes solely as a front-wheel-drive hybrid. But let's go through everything step by step. Interestingly, the car is produced for global markets, including Europe and Ukraine, in China by the GAC-Honda joint venture under the name ZR-V.

With a wheelbase of 2655 mm and a length of 4570 mm, the new Honda ZR-V is positioned between the HR-V and CR-V. Initially, the American market was prioritized, and it seems that the Japanese development team took the interests of overseas consumers into account. The ZR-V does not resemble other vehicles from the brand.

Although the crossover does not look like other "Hondas," it stands out significantly among modern competitors. The trapezoidal grille, narrow headlights, and intricately shaped taillights subtly hint at design elements from other brands, yet together they create a cohesive and, importantly, intriguing exterior. Its unique character is enhanced by a low silhouette and sloped rear roof pillars, which along with the tailgate give it a dynamic appearance.

In our market, even the base model comes equipped with LED headlights, chrome decorative elements, etc. Due to its "unusual" design, some drivers mistakenly identify it as an electric vehicle, associating it with the mass-imported electric Honda models from China. However, the presence of two large exhaust pipes beneath the rear bumper clearly indicates its gasoline "heart."

Sedan-like Crossover

The main surprise from the car's interior is its low, completely sedan-like seating position. Even when you raise the seats as high as possible, you still feel like you're sitting in a Honda Civic rather than a crossover. The vehicle may not boast a wide range of adjustments or an extensive set of electric seat controls, but overall, setting up a comfortable working position for an adult of 180 cm height takes just a minute.

On one hand, those who buy taller vehicles want to "see the road better" and "look farther." On the other hand, a lower seating position provides much more driving excitement under the same conditions. I should note that both statements are quite debatable.

The resemblance to the Civic is fully evident in the interior: the dashboard of the ZR-V model has a similar layout with a compact central console and air vents arranged in a single line. The crossover features partially virtual instruments with a screen on the left side of the dashboard and a 9.1-inch media system display. The controls are located behind the steering wheel. Initially, you hope they control the transmission gear selection. However, you soon realize that the vehicle does not have a conventional gearbox. Their purpose is to adjust the intensity of regeneration during braking by the hybrid system.

It is convenient that the climate control unit is quite physical, with the selected temperature and other parameters displayed on separate monochrome screens. Traditionally for the latest generations of Japanese cars, there is soft padding around the gear lever. The central tunnel, however, is quite original, featuring a lower "level" with USB ports located on both sides.

The second row is quite spacious, and the crossover has a nearly flat floor in the back. However, there are issues regarding access to the rear. For instance, a wider door opening angle would be preferable, as the door frame itself is small. This mainly complicates the installation of a child seat. Adults sitting in the back will find it comfortable, as there are dedicated air vents and an armrest prepared for them.

The trunk can accommodate up to 380 liters. Beneath the floor is a small additional compartment for small items and space for a repair kit. Due to the hybrid system and weight-saving measures, the Japanese engineers opted out of including a spare tire.

Signature Combination

Recent vehicles from the Japanese brand have accustomed us to expect a hybrid powertrain under the hood. The Honda ZR-V is no exception in this regard. In Ukraine, the European configuration of the hybrid crossover is offered, which features the e:HEV hybrid system with a series-parallel configuration based on a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine.

The 143 hp internal combustion engine operates on the Atkinson cycle, and rearward, there is a small lithium-ion battery and an electric motor. Typically, the gasoline engine charges the battery while in motion, which in turn powers the electric motor, and the latter drives the front wheels. Thus, the electric motor, with a power output of 184 hp and a maximum torque of 315 Nm, is the main source of propulsion for the vehicle.

How does this complex system operate? For the driver, it’s almost imperceptible. The vehicle almost always starts and moves on electric power. The system activates the gasoline engine as needed. You can monitor the operating modes of the hybrid powertrain and energy recovery during braking by displaying a graph on the dashboard.

According to the specifications, the Japanese crossover accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds. In rainy weather on winter tires, journalists from RBC-Ukraine Auto could not replicate this result, but overall, the vehicle has sufficient acceleration dynamics both in the city and on the highway. Interestingly, even at speeds of 110-120 km/h, the cabin remains quite quiet, as the internal combustion engine operates at optimal, low RPMs, contributing to acoustic comfort. In the city, the vehicle easily achieves consumption figures of 5-5.5 liters per 100 km. On the highway, fuel consumption is around 6.5-6.7 liters per "hundred." With a 57-liter fuel tank, the car can easily travel over 900 km between refueling.

However, in our opinion, the main advantage of the ZR-V is its suspension. The multi-link setup allows for spirited cornering at legally permitted speeds, while also providing a good feel on "wavy" and cracked regional roads. In fact, you wouldn't expect much comfort on poor roads from a Honda crossover built on a Civic chassis. Truly, it is a cause for surprise.

Price of the Matter

The Honda ZR-V crossover is available in the Ukrainian market in two versions - Elegance and Elegance Plus. The prices for the vehicles are 1,549,900 and 1,569,900 UAH, respectively.

In the base version, a number of electronic assistants are already available, including a collision prevention system, traffic sign recognition system, tire pressure monitoring system, and more. Additionally, it features keyless entry, hill start assist, dual-zone climate control, adaptive cruise control, an audio system with 8 speakers, and others.

In the "Plus" version, a blind-spot monitoring system and a rear parking assist system are also included.

Pros and Cons of the Honda ZR-V

Strengths of the Japanese crossover:

• Fuel-efficient powertrain
• Long driving range
• Interesting exterior design
• Spacious interior

Weaknesses of the Honda ZR-V

• Lack of powertrain options
• No optional all-wheel drive
• Small trunk