Honda locks in ZR-V for mid-2023 arrival

HONDA Australia has confirmed that its new ZR-V medium SUV will go on sale locally from the middle of this year.

Although it is yet to confirm specific arrival timing or pricing for the new model, the importer says the ZR-V will offer Australian Honda buyers greater choice, bringing “sporty driveability, elevated and contemporary design” and “intuitive technology” to the brand’s SUV range.

The ZR-V will be offered in VTi X, VTi L, VTi LX and e:HEV LX (hybrid) grades with two powertrains available, both familiar to other models within the Honda stable. A 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol unit will power the first three variants listed, while a 2.0-litre petrol and two-motor electric hybrid combination motivates the fourth.

Honda says the ZR-V will sit lower than most SUVs, offering a sedan-like driving position without compromising visibility. The model is also said to offer a variety of storage spaces with the cargo area floor boasting a flat design.

Standard features are set to include grade-dependent 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, a 9.0-inch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity, LED headlights with adaptive driving beam, front and rear parking sensors, and a five-year subscription to telematics services via Honda Connect.

The ZR-V will also come standard with the complete Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies including a collision mitigation system, adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition.

Locally, the Honda ZR-V will compete in the same segment as the CR-V and against the likes of the Citroen C5 Aircross (from $52,300 plus on-road costs), GWM Haval H6 GT (from $40,990 drive-away), Peugeot 3008 (from $50,075 + ORC) and Skoda Karoq (from $43,090 + ORC).

“As the first new Honda SUV model launched since 1999, we are thrilled to offer Australians a medium-size SUV with sport driveability, in-car smart connectivity, and elevated contemporary design features,” said Honda Australia director Carolyn McMahon.

“This is an exciting time for Honda Australia, as we continue to see a shift in the SUV market in Australia and an opportunity for growth in the medium SUV segment.

“We are committed to providing Australians with a medium SUV that is comfortable and fun to drive, with a sleek interior and sporty silhouette that reflects the individual personalities of Australians.

“The Honda ZR-V’s form and function will redefine how SUVs are seen, and we’re excited to bring it to our customers in 2023.”

Ms McMahon said the Honda ZR-V will begin to arrive in the Australian market from mid-2023 with full specifications and pricing to be announced prior to the model’s launch.