We informed you earlier that Honda could present a new compact SUV at the upcoming 2021 GIIAS (Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show). At the debut event of new BR-V, Honda Indonesia revealed a mysterious car covered in red camouflage. If reports are to be believed, the new model could be showcased in a concept avatar and could be called the Honda N5X concept.
The production version of the car could be called the new Honda ZR-V, which company has patented in select markets. It is expected that the new compact SUV will be based on the new front-wheel-drive platform that underpins the new BR-V. Honda claims that the new platform is designed to offer toughness of an SUV and the comfort of an MPV.
The new Honda ZR-V could ride on a smaller wheelbase, and will be offered as a 5-seater model. It is likely to source some of the design elements from the new-gen BR-V. In fact, Honda could use same body panels and design theme to achieve competitive pricing. Instagram user Malvin WS has released some renderings of the upcoming Honda ZR-V.
Honda is likely to follow the BR-V’s strategy of showing the concept model to public before introducing the final production model. The production-spec model is most likely to arrive sometime in 2022. The new Honda ZR-V compact SUV will be a competitor to Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, Kia Sonet, Nissan Magnite and the Renault Kiger.
The camouflaged car had a pair of roof rails, which suggests that it could be a crossover/SUV. It is expected to share many parts such as the A-pillar, dashboard, hood and doors with the 7-seater model. Honda could follow the City and Civic strategies, both of which have a longer sedan version and a shorter hatchback.
It is quite early to comment on the engine specifications of the new model. It is likely to use the 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that powers the Thai-spec City sedan. Honda could also use the 1.2L NA petrol or the 1.5L 4-cylinder NA petrol engine to power the new Honda compact SUV.
Honda is reportedly working on a new mid-sized SUV for the Indian market. This model could source the platform and engine options with the new BR-V. Rumours also suggest that Honda could also bring a sub-4 meter SUV in our market; however, the Japanese automaker is yet to make an official announcement on the same.
