What To Expect From The Upcoming Honda ZR-V SUV In India

Published: Monday, February 3, 2025, 13:00 [IST]

Honda is contemplating introducing the ZR-V SUV to India's competitive market, where it currently offers only three models. Although a specific launch date remains uncertain, sources suggest the ZR-V could arrive by late this year or early next year.

Honda ZR-V: Dimensions & Design

The Honda ZR-V, which debuted globally in 2022, is available in Japan and some ASEAN countries. It resembles the HR-V sold in North America. The SUV measures 4.56 metres in length with a wheelbase of 2,655mm, slightly longer than the Creta's. Positioned below the CR-V, it targets the Toyota Corolla Cross overseas.

The exterior of the ZR-V includes an octagonal grille with vertical slats over horizontal ones. The bumper is tall with subtle corner cuts merging into the chin, and below it lies a wide air dam with a gloss-black finish. The SUV's side profile is rounded with minimal creases and a large glasshouse that kinks upward behind the rear door. Its roofline is tall but tapers smoothly at the back, blending seamlessly into curved glass on its tailgate.

Honda ZR-V: Interior Highlights

Inside, the ZR-V boasts a tidy dashboard with integrated AC vents and physical climate control buttons. It also features a free-standing touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. Like the CR-V, it uses button-operated gear shifts instead of traditional levers seen on North American HR-Vs.

Honda ZR-V: Powertrain Options

In Japan and other ASEAN markets, the ZR-V comes with an AWD petrol-hybrid setup featuring a 2.0-litre engine paired with an electric CVT gearbox and two electric motors. This configuration offers about 180hp depending on market variations; it's likely this version will be introduced in India.

Additionally, Honda provides a pure-petrol variant equipped with a 1.5-litre turbo engine mated to a CVT gearbox offering AWD capability. This option caters to different market preferences alongside hybrid offerings.

Strategy For India

Honda plans to bring the ZR-V to India as a full import, similar to previous models like the CR-V and Accord Hybrid. This approach would incur higher duties leading to increased retail prices. Honda previously conducted CKD operations at its Greater Noida plant until December 2020.

DriveSpark Thinks

While considering launching the ZR-V in India, Honda has not made a final decision yet. In past instances like with the previous-gen HR-V, projects were dropped despite readiness due to factors like insufficient localisation leading to uncompetitive pricing.