As part of Honda’s premiumization drive for the Indian market, the ZR-V will be imported as a CBU, priced around Rs 50-60 lakh.
For the Japanese market, Honda has updated the ZR-V C-segment compact crossover SUV. In markets such as North America and China, the ZR-V is known as the HR-V. The ZR-V is positioned below the CR-V in the company’s lineup. The updated ZR-V will be released in Japan in March 2026. Let’s see the details.
2026 Honda ZR-V – What’s new?
One of the major changes is that the 2026 ZR-V is now a hybrid-only vehicle. The earlier 1.5-litre VTEC turbo petrol engine has been discontinued. Instead, the updated ZR-V gets a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four petrol engine. It generates 141 PS and 182 Nm of torque and is paired with an e-CVT transmission.
This engine, running on the Atkinson cycle, is also in use with the 11th generation Honda Civic and the new Prelude. The ZR-V shares the same platform as the 11th generation Civic. In the hybrid setup of the ZR-V, the NA petrol engine is used to generate power and provide propulsion via an electric motor.
The electricity produced is used to charge the battery, which then supplies power to a separate traction motor. This motor is rated to generate 135 kW (184 PS) and 315 Nm. Depending on the situation, the NA petrol engine can also supply propulsion directly to the wheels through the e-CVT transmission.
new features
Along with the updated ZR-V, Honda has discontinued the X trim. The only primary trim level available now is the Z trim. However, there are two special editions, the Black Style and the Cross Touring. These are based on the Z primary trim and focus primarily on achieving a distinctive profile through cosmetic enhancements.
Honda has introduced many new features with the ZR-V. These include the Google Assistant, which allows users to access music, take calls and send text messages. The temperature can be adjusted without any interference. Another addition is Google Maps, which provides real-time traffic updates and automatic detour route display. A wide range of apps can be accessed through the Google Play suite.
Key features of the main Z trim of the ZR-V include a 9-inch Honda Connect display, Honda Sensing Suite and a 12-speaker BOSE premium sound system. Other key features include a 10.2-inch instrument display, fully automatic air conditioner with independent temperature control, heated steering wheel, leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats.
It also includes a multi-view camera system, USB port, auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror, electric gear selector and metal deceleration selector. Users can choose from drive modes of Sport, Normal, Econ and Snow.
special Edition
Talking about the special editions, the Black Style uses gray metallic exterior color and an all-black interior theme. Many parts of the exterior and interior have a blacked-out finish. The Honda ZR-V Cross Touring Special Edition uses off-road-oriented styling. It has Desert Beige body color and exclusive Gray interior theme.
Other highlights include a distinctive front bumper, metallic-style skid plates, exclusive bumper corner protectors, wheel arch cladding, side sill garnish and rear bumper garnish. The leather seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel feature special orange stitching. More details about the updated Honda ZR-V, including pricing, will be revealed at the time of its launch in late March.
Honda ZR-V may be introduced in India later this year. It will primarily serve as a halo product for brand-building purposes rather than a high-volume seller. It will compete with rivals like Volkswagen Tiguan and Tayron.
