Honda ZR-V: is a different SUV a good purchase option or a problem?

We tested the ZR-V, a model that doesn’t look like any other Honda SUV. 2.0 aspirated engine does not disappoint, and has good consumption for the category.

The Honda ZR-V has nothing to do with the Japanese brand’s other SUVs ( HR-V and CR-V ). Despite the different look, this model is an authentic Honda and has a strong relationship with a classic from the brand. The average sports utility vehicle uses the same platform as the current generation Civic. Therefore, it is not too much of a stretch to say that the ZR-V is the Civic’s SUV, just as the Toyota Corolla Cross is the Corolla sedan’s SUV.

The front of the Honda ZR-V features full LED headlights, with projectors, with a more centralized grille, which does not explore the edges too much. The wheels are 17 inches, properly framed to match the SUV look. The shark antenna reinforces the sportiness, as does the spoiler. The rear is ‘clean’, with a smoother slope. One of the highlights is the beautiful exhaust tip.

Finishing and internal space are highlights in the Honda ZR-V

The interior is one of the highlights of the Honda ZR-V. The white leather seats are the first point to draw attention (we still have leather on the dashboard, doors and center console). But there’s still whimsy in the ceiling fabric, carpeted floor mats and various soft-touch surfaces.

The dashboard follows the line of the Civic and CR-V, with emphasis on a grille that covers the ventilation system. The multimedia has a 9-inch screen, and the instrument panel is partially digital, with the analogue speedometer next to a 7-inch display. The sunroof, which is small by current standards, and the electric adjustments for the driver’s seat also stand out.

Passenger space is very good, with the rear seat being relatively comfortable even for the middle passenger. But here the Honda ZR-V made a mistake: there is no direct air conditioning outlet for the occupants. The trunk has 389 liters, small for the category, but the space is not that bad.

Does the SUV need a turbo engine?

The Honda ZR-V has a 2.0 naturally aspirated gasoline engine under the hood, with 161 hp of power and 19.1 kgfm of torque, combined with a 7-speed CVT transmission. Despite developing more slowly than a turbo engine, this mechanical package does not make this SUV a weak vehicle.

Despite trying to keep the revs in ranges favorable to low fuel consumption, the gearbox management does not hesitate to push the revs high to favor performance. At this time, not even the good acoustic insulation of the Honda ZR-V disguises the engine roaring inside the safe. On the other hand, fuel consumption is lower than smaller turbo engines, such as the 1.3 in the Compass.

The suspension setup, which has the luxury of having a multilink at the rear, is firmer, favoring stability in high-speed curves, sacrificing some comfort. The Honda ZR-V’s steering has electrical assistance and is very responsive to the driver’s commands. In short, this SUV is far from sporty, but it provides a good driving experience for those who like to drive.

Technical sheet: Honda ZR-V Touring

MOTOR	2.0 aspirated, gasoline engine, which develops power of 161 hp at 6,500 rpm and torque of 19.1 kgfm at 4,200 rpm
STREAMING	CVT automatic transmission that simulates 7 gears; front-wheel drive
SUSPENSIONS	Front: McPherson Rear: Multilink
DIRECTION	Progressive electric
DIMENSIONS	Length: 4.56m Width: 1.84m Height: 1.61m Wheelbase: 2.65m Free height from the ground: 17.7cm
WEIGHT	1,446 kg
TRUNK	389 liters
ANGLES	Entry: 16.4° Output: 20.2°
CONSUMPTION	City: 10.2km/l Road: 12.1km/l

Equipment list: Honda ZR-V Touring

• Alarm;
• Emergency braking assistant;
• Electronic parking brake with Brake Hold function;
• Stability and traction assistant;
• Hill start assistant;
• Agile driving assistant;
• Descent control assistant;
• Front, side,
• knee (driver and passenger) and curtain airbags;
• Isofix; multi-view rear camera; tire pressure alert;
• Blind spot reduction assistant; adaptive cruise control;
• Collision mitigation system;
• Centering the vehicle in the lane;
• Automatic high beam adjustment; shark antenna;
• Full LED optical assembly; headlights with automatic lighting and electrical height adjustment;
• Face-to-face key;
• Front and rear parking sensors;
• Power windows; steering column with height and distance adjustment; electrically adjustable driver’s seat;
• Set of rugs with anti-slip lock (carpet);
• Mirrors on sun visors with lighting;
• Photochromic interior rear view mirror;
• Dual zone digital air conditioning;
• Split rear seat (60/40);
• Seat coverings; 8 speakers;
• Multimedia 9”; 7″ digital panel;
• Induction cell phone charger;
• Sunroof.