Honda announced a new compact SUV model for China named the ZR-V, which will be produced by the local Guangqi Honda joint venture. As we can tell from the pictures, the ZR-V that will debut on May 19 is essentially the Chinese version of the US-spec 2023 Honda HR-V. Furthermore, Honda confirmed that it will use the same ZR-V nameplate for the European market specification model coming in 2023.
The exterior design of the ZR-V is nearly identical to the US-spec HR-V, with a few exceptions focused on trim elements. The same traits were seen on the teaser sketch for Europe where the ZR-V will slot above the slightly smaller EU-spec HR-V and below the larger CR-V, occupying the C-SUV segment.
See Also: New Honda HR-V Will Be Powered By 2.0-Liter Engine, CARB Document Reveals
At the front, the LED headlights have slightly different graphics, and the bumper intakes are decorated with glossy black plastic and chrome accents. The profile is unchanged, other than the new design for the wheels which give an upmarket look to the SUV.
Other changes include the panoramic sunroof which is larger in the ZR-V thanks to dual glass panels. Finally, the rear end has received a new chrome element on the lower part of the bumper, housing dual exhaust pipes.
Honda hasn’t revealed the specifications of the ZR-V yet, but the SUV is expected to share powertrains with the mechanically-related Honda Civic and Honda Integra. In China it will likely inherit the turbocharged 1.5-litre gasoline engine, while in Europe it will be exclusively available in hybrid e:HEV form just like the entire Honda range.
We will learn more information about the Honda ZR-V in a couple of weeks when Guangqi Honda will fully reveal it.
