2023 Honda ZR-V revealed for Japan, Australian launch likely

July 2023: The Honda ZR-V is now on sale in Australia, and we've driven it

Sorry, CR-V – ZR-V is the medium SUV poised to bring Honda back to the pointy end of the sales race. Read our full review at the link below.

▶ Story continues: ZR-V revealed

The 2023 Honda ZR-V has been revealed for Japan, giving us an insight into what we could expect if the medium SUV is launched locally.

Set to launch in its local market over the coming months, the ZR-V provides a new exterior design language similar to that of the Maserati Levante, in a somewhat radical departure from Honda's new CR-V and HR-V SUVs.

Just like the Australian-market Civic, a 1.5-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder engine is offered while Japanese customers can also opt for a 2.0-litre, non-turbo four-pot hybrid powerplant, which is expected to debut in the Civic hybrid – although all ZR-V variants are all-wheel-drive with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

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Inside the cabin, occupants are met with a horizontally-orientated nine-inch infotainment screen as well as a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver.

Just like its Honda siblings, the ZR-V features integrated air vents in its dash, adding to the sleek design, which includes a leather-appointed interior.

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Honda Australia has previously trademarked the ZR-V name locally, adding to speculation that the new SUV will form a part of its expanded product range in the near future.

Pricing for the ZR-V has not been released for Japan, while the brand's local operation has confirmed a new SUV will join its Australian line-up in the next 12 to 18 months, with its name and other details to be revealed closer to launch.