Honda's ZR-V, the company's latest entrant in the mid-sized SUV segment, is set to make waves in 2025 with a more accessible price point and a range of features designed to appeal to discerning buyers. As Honda's second-best-selling model in Australia, the ZR-V is positioned to challenge competitors with its blend of style, performance, and value.
Price Cuts and Range Overview
For 2025, Honda has reduced the entry price of the ZR-V range, with the VTi X+ now starting at $37,900 drive-away, a $2000 price cut compared to the previous year. This move makes the ZR-V more competitive in the crowded SUV market. The full lineup now consists of:
- VTi X+: $37,900 drive-away
- VTi L+: $43,400 drive-away
- VTi LX: $49,000 drive-away
- e:HEV LX (hybrid): $54,900 drive-away
Powertrains and Performance
The ZR-V offers two distinct powertrain options:
- Petrol: 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (131kW/240Nm)
- Hybrid: 2.0L 4-cylinder hybrid system (135kW/315Nm)
The hybrid variant, exclusive to the e:HEV LX model, combines a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with two electric motors. This sophisticated system allows for efficient operation, with the electric motors driving the wheels most of the time and the petrol engine primarily serving as a generator.
Fuel Efficiency
Honda's commitment to efficiency is evident in the ZR-V's fuel economy figures:
- Petrol models: 7.0-7.4L/100km
- Hybrid model: Approximately 5.0L/100km (based on real-world testing)
These figures position the ZR-V, particularly the hybrid variant, as one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class.
Design and Interior
The ZR-V strikes a balance between the confident stance of an SUV and the elegance of a coupé. Its design features clean shoulder lines and a bold look that's sure to turn heads. Inside, the ZR-V offers:
- 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto
- 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster
The top-grade models feature an 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat with memory function and a 4-way adjustable passenger seat.
Safety Features
Safety is a priority for Honda, and the ZR-V comes equipped with:
- Four-star ANCAP safety rating
- Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technologies, including:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Following
- Auto High Beam Support System
Practicality and Space
While the ZR-V offers comfortable seating for five, its boot space is somewhat limited compared to some competitors:
- Boot capacity: 370-380 liters (depending on variant)
- Expandable to 1302-1312 liters with rear seats folded
Driving Experience
The ZR-V has been engineered to provide an engaging driving experience:
- Responsive handling, especially in the hybrid model
- Quiet and comfortable ride, particularly in urban environments
- Some road noise reported at higher speeds
Market Position and Competition
The ZR-V slots between the smaller HR-V and the larger CR-V in Honda's SUV lineup. In 2024, Honda delivered 4,092 ZR-Vs in Australia, outperforming the HR-V but falling short of the CR-V's sales figures.
Warranty and Servicing
Honda offers a competitive warranty package:
- 5-year unlimited kilometer warranty
- 8-year warranty on the hybrid battery (for e:HEV models)
- Servicing required every 12 months or 10,000km
- First five services capped at $199 each
The 2025 Honda ZR-V represents a compelling option in the mid-sized SUV market. With its reduced entry price, range of powertrains including a highly efficient hybrid option, and comprehensive safety features, it's well-positioned to attract buyers looking for a blend of style, efficiency, and practicality. While it faces stiff competition in a crowded segment, the ZR-V's combination of Honda reliability, advanced technology, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender for those in the market for a new SUV.
