2024 Honda ZR-V: Australian launch confirmed for new medium SUV

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 confirmed for Australia

The new Honda ZR-V will join the Japanese brand’s Australian line-up in mid 2023 after confirmation of one of the medium SUV segment’s worst-kept secrets.

Honda’s first-ever ZR-V will sit between its longer-running SUV nameplates, the HR-V and CR-V.

It will essentially replace the CR-V as Honda’s direct rival to the likes of the Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV4, with a larger, new-generation CR-V – also due this year – moving into the large-SUV space.

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How big is the Honda ZR-V?

The Honda ZR-V is 4566mm long, based on Honda USA details – where the SUV is badged HR-V with the smaller SUV not offered in North America.

That’s just a fraction longer than the Civic, and compares with the 4335mm-long HR-V and 4694mm-long new-generation CR-V.

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Features and equipment

Pricing and detailed specifications will be announced closer to the model’s local launch, but Honda has confirmed the ZR-V will be offered with both petrol and hybrid drivetrains – both borrowed from the Civic hatchback.

The 1.5-litre turbo petrol and CVT combination is installed in the VTi X, VTi L and VTi LX grades, while the e:HEV LX that’s likely to be the flagship variant features a 2.0-litre petrol engine, dual electric motors and an e-CVT transmission.

In the Civic, the 1.5L turbo produces 131kW and 240Nm while the hybrid produces 135kW and 315Nm.

Honda Australia will have the option to pick ZR-V models with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, giving them one clear distinction over the small HR-V that is front-drive only. The CR-V is expected to continue being offered in a mix of front- and all-wheel drive and will continue to be the only Honda SUV available with seven seats.

Honda’s global media information for the ZR-V suggests all but the base VTi X will feature driving modes, with Eco, Normal, Snow and Sport settings that adjust accelerator-pedal response. Hill Descent Control is also available.

The VTi X will sit on 17-inch alloy wheels, with all other grades featuring 18-inch alloys.

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Other confirmed features for now include anti-dazzle LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, speed-limit notification, front/rear parking sensors, and a 9.0-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. An automatic tailgate will also be standard on all models, according to Honda.

Honda Connect Telematic services will be complimentary for five years, mirroring the likes of Kia and Hyundai – while others such as Toyota stick with shorter trials.

Honda says the ZR-V crossover features a sedan-like driving position and provides a flat cargo area when rear seats are lowered.

The design of the ZR-V is quite a departure from either the slightly quirky HR-V or more conventional new-generation CR-V – with an uncanny resemblance to Maserati’s Levante luxury SUV.

How much will the Honda ZR-V cost in Australia?

A starting price somewhere under $40,000 would seem likely for the ZR-V to ensure it competes with its closest rivals.

The smaller HR-V costs between $36,700 and $47,000, while the outgoing CR-V ranges from $35,900 to $53,600.