The Honda ZR-V arrives as a new mid-size SUV offering from the Japanese automaker, slotting between the compact HR-V and larger CR-V. With rivals like the Nissan Qashqai, Hyundai Tucson, and Kia Sportage vying for buyers' attention, the ZR-V needs to impress. Unfortunately, while stylish and efficient, it falls short in practicality.
Quirky Styling Inside And Out
The ZR-V's exterior styling is rather quirky, looking like three different designers penned the front, sides, and rear before mashing them together. It's an odd aesthetic that doesn't gel with Honda's other SUV offerings. Thankfully, the interior fares better, taking cues from the excellent new Civic with a modern design, good material quality, and user-friendly layout.
While up front space is ample, the same can't be said for rear seat room. Taller occupants may find headroom tight, especially with the panoramic sunroof fitted to range-topping Advance trims robbing inch space. Under-thigh support also leaves something to be desired.
Tiny Trunk Disappoints
Where the ZR-V really falls down is cargo room. With just 380 liters (13.4 cu ft) of trunk space, it trails key rivals offering 500+ liters. Even the Bose audio subwoofer in Advance models eats into that meager volume. Splitting and folding the rear seats helps, opening up 1,312 liters (46.4 cu ft), but the ZR-V is simply outclassed for utility.
Efficient Hybrid Power
Powering the ZR-V is Honda's 2.0-liter gas-electric hybrid setup, making a combined 184 horsepower sent to the front wheels via a CVT automatic. It's the same powertrain found in the Civic, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds which is adequate if unexciting. The highlights are stellar efficiency and electric power low-speed operation.
Honda estimates 49 mpg combined, though we saw an impressive 51 mpg in testing without much effort. The electric motor provides zippy urban performance, with the gas engine only joining in under harder acceleration. Transitions between the two power sources are smooth and seamless.
Decent Dynamics
While not a performance crossover, the ZR-V acquits itself well dynamically. Body motions are nicely controlled, and the steering has reasonable weighting and accuracy. Sport mode sharpens throttle response slightly but doesn't transform the character. Wind and road noise are noticeable at highway speeds, though the cabin is otherwise well-insulated.
The Honda ZR-V presents a stylish, efficient, and easy-to-drive package for urban runabouts. However, its lack of practicality and a tight trunk severely limit its appeal as a true family hauler in the crowded mid-size SUV segment. For many buyers, larger rivals simply make more sense unless interior style and hybrid frugality are priorities.
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4 окт 2024
