GAC Honda has revealed the first official pictures of the new Honda ZR-V SUV for the Chinese market. It is basically the re-badged version of the US-spec HR-V that has recently been revealed.
The new Honda ZR-V is based on the 11th generation Civic and is positioned in the C-segment SUV category. It is bigger than the B-segment Honda HR-V, which is on sale in Europe and Japan. The new ZR-V is also reportedly to be launched in select European markets where it will be placed between the HR-V and the CR-V.
In terms of styling, the new Honda ZR-V SUV looks largely identical to the US-spec HR-V. It features a larger octagonal-shaped grille, flanked by slim LED headlamps with L-shaped DRLs. The lower bumper has C-shaped mouldings for the fog lamp housing. The rear design also seems identical to the new HR-V; however, the dual exhausts are not visible in the press photos.
Interior pictures are yet to be revealed but it is likely to share the cabin design with the HR-V. However, GAC Honda will make few changes to keep things fresh in the market.
The new Honda ZR-V SUV will be powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine paired to a CVT unit. The VTEC turbo engine is capable of producing 180bhp of power and 240Nm of torque. The vehicle has the “240 Turbo” emblem on the sculpted tailgate, which is also used for the Honda Integra sedan on sale in China.
Honda Plans For India
Honda has confirmed that it will launch an all-new compact SUV in the Indian market in 2023. The new model is likely to be based on City platform and will come with hybrid powertrain. It will be positioned against the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq and the MG Astor.
It is also expected that the new Honda compact SUV could share the design inspiration from the bigger HR-V and the new Honda SUV RS concept, which was unveiled at the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show. This model is also rumoured to be called the Honda ZR-V.
