Honda ZR-V Debuts In Japan With Hybrid Option, Looks Like The US-Spec HR-V

Honda unveiled the new ZR-V in Japan, which is a slightly more stylish version of the Chinese-spec ZR-V and the US-spec HR-V. Besides the visual tweaks, the Japanese ZR-V is also available in e:HEV form, with a hybrid AWD powertrain that is also expected to reach Europe in the near future.

Predictably, the Japanese ZR-V looks very similar to its siblings, with the exception of some changes in the trim. The most striking difference is the front bumper which ditches the black trim for a more uniform body-colored look. The grille also gets a unique treatment, with vertical slits replacing the honeycomb pattern.

Also Read: The EU-Spec 2022 Honda HR-V e:HEV Is A Premium-Looking But Pricey SUV

The Japanese ZR-V (top) compared to the Chinese ZR-V (bottom left) and the North American HR-V (bottom right)

Similarly, the trim on the wheel arches, side sills, and rear bumper is body-colored, with an aluminum-style insert at the back housing dual tailpipes. The Honda emblem has blue accents, hinting at the electrified powertrain together with the e:HEV badge on the tailgate.

Inside, the design is identical to the US-spec HR-V including the integrated climate vents, the physical climate controls, the free-standing infotainment touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster. However Japanese buyers get a new design for the automatic gearbox with buttons on the center tunnel similar to the outgoing CR-V e:HEV, plus different options for the upholstery creating a more premium atmosphere.

Hybrid And Petrol Options, Always Combined With AWD

More importantly, the new ZR-V is offered with an AWD hybrid system which combines a 2.0-liter engine, an electric CVT, and two electric motors. Honda didn’t reveal the detailed specs but a similar 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain is found in the FWD-only Civic e:HEV, offering a combined output of 181 hp (135 kW / 184 PS). Setting aside the electrified option, there is also an ICE-only variant with the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine mated to a CVT transmission that sends power to all four wheels.

According to the dedicated website, Honda will start taking pre-orders for the ZR-V in September, prior to its market launch in Japan this fall. We expect to learn more about the model in the coming months, with its Euro debut likely being just around the corner. Unlike other markets, Europeans will only get the e:HEV variant as with the rest of Honda’s lineup.