Honda Cars India is all set to launch two new cars on May 22, the Honda City facelift sedan and the Honda ZR-V SUV. The Honda ZR-V will be launched in India as a premium flagship SUV, which will come as a complete import (CBU). The company plans to position the ZR-V as a brand-building product rather than a volume driver. In a market dominated by locally produced SUVs at competitive prices, the model is expected to differentiate itself through global engineering, refinement, and a more premium ownership experience. In this article, let’s take a look at five things you need to know about the new Honda ZR-V. Honda ZR-V: DesignIn terms of design, the Honda ZR-V adopts a crossover-like design rather than the traditional straight SUV shape with clean surfaces. At the front, it gets a large grille and wide LED headlamps, which are neatly integrated into the fascia to provide a restrained yet noticeable presence. In profile, the SUV appears lower than typical models, with a sloping roofline and a longer wheelbase, giving it closer to a bulging hatchback than a traditional long SUV. Subtle character lines add definition without overcomplicating the design.The rear continues the same style, with wraparound LED taillamps, slightly raked rear glass and a simple tailgate layout. A roof-mounted spoiler adds a mild sporty element while maintaining the overall clean design. The outdoor space is positioned as more urban focused than rugged.
Honda ZR-V: Interior, Features Going inside, the Honda ZR-V adopts a straightforward cabin design. Controls are arranged logically, with an emphasis on accessibility from the driver’s seat. The infotainment screen is placed as a standalone unit at the top of the dashboard, clearly separated from the physical switchgear below. Honda continues to use traditional button and rotary controls for functions like climate control.Standard, including the dashboard and door panels, use a mild finish, while the lower parts rely on tougher materials more suited to regular use. Fine metallic or shiny inserts are added in limited areas. Overall, in our opinion the interior avoids unnecessary design elements, instead focusing on uniform composition and consistent finishes. In terms of features, it is expected to get a large touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, connected car tech, multi-zone climate control, a fully digital cluster, electric and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, wireless charging, multiple airbags, multiple airbags. Platform and dimensions The Honda ZR-V is based on Honda’s global compact platform. It is a monocoque construction of passenger cars. The architecture supports front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive and hybrid powertrains in global markets. The ZR-V is primarily built for comfort and everyday on-road use rather than off-road conditions. In terms of size, the Honda ZR-V measures approximately 4,568 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width and 1,620 mm in height, with a wheelbase of approximately 2,655-2,657 mm.The engine There are currently no details on which engine the Honda ZR-V will be offered in India. It is expected to get a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, NA petrol engine with an e-motor. It churns out 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque.Expected price, competitorsThe Honda ZR-V will be launched in India as a completely built unit (CBU), which will push its pricing into a higher bracket due to import duties and related costs. The SUV is expected to be priced around Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom).This positioning will put it above most of the locally produced SUVs, given its full import status and global configuration. The pricing indicates that Honda is unlikely to target volumes rather than use the model as a premium offering to strengthen its brand presence.At launch, it competes with Volkswagen Tiguan, Skoda Kodiaq, Nissan X-Trail and more.
