2023 Honda ZR-V Review

Has Honda filled a gap with the new ZR-V?

The recent crop of new Honda vehicles have given us a lot to like; it feels like Honda has managed to better appeal to modern buyers whilst still respecting where it came from and not alienating its fiercely loyal customer base. Let’s see if that rich run of form continues with the new ZR-V.

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The Honda ZR-V, a mid-size SUV, enters the fiercely competitive UK market, sharing its underpinnings with the Honda Civic and the next-generation CR-V. It sits between the Smaller HR-V and the Larger CR-V in Honda’s SUV lineup.

The ZR-V stands out with a 2.0-litre petrol engine, two electric motors, and a small battery, omitting a plug-in hybrid version. In this review, we'll delve into the ZR-V's performance and driving experience, its design and cabin, and assess how it stacks up in the crowded mid-size SUV segment.

The Honda ZR-V fits into the mid-size SUV category, competing with popular models like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage.

Design-wise, the ZR-V is not a world beater but is by no means an ugly duckling, it offers a bit of a mishmash of design elements from its various siblings.; however, the cabin shows a well-thought-out design with crystal clear displays, good connectivity, and a simple but effective design that is reminiscent of the latest Honda Civic.

The ZR-V has some stiff competition in it’s class but is certainly a contender for your hard earned cash.

The rear seats provide good space, although taller adults may encounter headroom limitations, especially with the sunroof on top-spec models. Kneeroom is generous, but under-thigh support could be improved.

One notable drawback is the ZR-V's boot, which, at 380 litres (for reference, a VW Golf has 381 litres of space), lags behind alternatives offering figures in the 500s and is not a huge upgrade over the 319 litres offered by the HR-V.

Under the bonnet, the ZR-V boasts a commendable 2.0-litre petrol engine integrated into the i-MMD hybrid system, yielding a healthy 181bhp. It accelerates from 0 to 60mph in a respectable 7.5 seconds, ensuring sufficient power for daily driving. The electric motor primarily drives the wheels, offering instant power like an electric car without range anxiety, while the engine acts as a generator when necessary.

In town, the ZR-V is hushed and smooth, and the one-speed automatic gearbox delivers a seamless experience. However, road noise at higher speeds and wind noise could be improved compared to rivals. Despite not isolating passengers from urban imperfections as effectively as some competitors, the ZR-V offers a balanced and agile ride with minimal body roll and well-weighted steering.

The ZR-V does have surprisingly weak braking performance, bringing the car to a halt therefore requires quite a firm right foot and this rather takes you by surprise the first time you drive the car and is not a trait shared by other recent Honda vehicles in our experience; however, the ZR-V's regenerative braking system is progressive and effective in town.

The interior is a real highlight of the ZR-V, it’s well considered and well executed.

In terms of drive modes, there isn't a four-wheel-drive option, but a Snow mode enhances traction in low-grip conditions. However, the maximum towing capacity of 750kg falls short compared to some hybrid rivals.

What sets the ZR-V apart is its impressive efficiency, achieving 50mpg in real-world conditions, surpassing the official figure of 48.7mpg. However, on extended motorway journeys, the petrol engine constantly charging the battery can impact efficiency, accompanied by noticeable tyre noise.

Final Thoughts:

The Honda ZR-V is a well-rounded mid-size SUV, offering a spacious cabin, a commendable hybrid powertrain, and efficient driving characteristics. However, it faces tough competition in the UK market, with a design that may not be universally popular. It excels in urban driving conditions but faces some mild challenges at higher speeds, especially in terms of powertrain efficiency and cabin noise.

The ZR-V is a very good, easy to live with, car that is well worth a test drive. For buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and well-equipped SUV, the ZR-V offers strong value, although it perhaps lacks some of the pizazz to stand out in a crowded segment filled with highly capable alternatives, it certainly deserves to be part of the conversation.

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