Honda ZR-V: Honda's Ultimate Hybrid

The Honda alphabet is quite special: The big new CR-V ranks above the HR-V, with the ZR-V positioned between them, seen as a sort of substitute for the Civic wagon and somehow visually reminiscent of the Ford Kuga. In general, the new Hondas with their hexagonal grille and flat LED headlights somewhat remind one of Ford. The previous-to-last Civic was bold, but it did polarize quite a bit, and especially in the USA, customers appreciate a more understated design.

The first seating test surprises: The ZR-V also offers extremely spacious interiors

The first seating test in Offenbach surprises: it noticeably offers more space than the already roomy HR-V and almost as much room as the larger CR-V. In terms of space efficiency, the subtly designed Hondas are currently setting benchmarks in the market – you can feel the detailed work in packaging here.

Under the hood of the ZR-V also works the 2.0-liter four-cylinder direct injection engine with Atkinson cycle of the e:HEV hybrid technology. Together with two electric motors, it is supposed to ensure powerful, direct acceleration while being economical: Honda states 5.7l/100 km or 130 g CO2 per km. Based on our experiences with the Civic, this should be an achievable value – although we would have preferred a genuine electric vehicle here.

The chassis is likely to be well-executed in the ZR-V too – it has inherited the genes from the Civic

The light and stiff chassis was inspired by the concept of the Civic and CR-V platforms. Here too, Honda aims to bring driving dynamics and agility toward a light, sporty hatchback. This could work – it succeeded quite well with the Civic!

In terms of steering, they also took cues from the Civic: meaning an elaborate control logic and low-friction components for an effortless steering feel with as direct feedback as possible, though not as direct as in BMW or Mini. The multi-link rear suspension and optimized mounting should also ensure comfortable and active driving behavior in the ZR-V – Honda still sees itself as a sporty brand.

The luggage compartment offers a load volume of 380 to 1,291 liters, can be divided into individual sections, and features a separate storage compartment in the loading floor as well as a retractable luggage cover. The craftsmanship is Japanese in the best sense: solidly made, with some room for improvement. And with an interior smell that reminds of machine oil, as if it had been extra impregnated with it for eternity, which Honda shares with Toyota and Mitsubishi. Visually, many soft-touch materials with precisely finished surfaces along with stylish lighting create a homely atmosphere.

The operation of the air conditioning is carried out via the brand-typical classic rotary knobs, it couldn't be better. In addition, there are several USB charging ports at the front and rear and a nine-inch touchscreen in the middle of the upper dashboard. Honda has not yet commented on the prices, but they are expected to be slightly above those of the Civic...

What does that mean?

Bold is different: The ZR-V is an economical, space-efficient, intuitively operable hybrid that we would have liked to see as an electric vehicle with an 800-volt architecture. But most markets are probably not there yet – and Honda does not want to get ahead of its customers.