Honda is expected to launch a brand new subcompact crossover in the Japanese and Indian market called the ZR-V. Initially, it was expected to drop by May 2021, but recent reports suggest that it could potentially be launched by the end of this year.
No official specifications have been released by Honda for the model. However, a report by IndianAuto says that the Honda ZR-V could be based on the platform of either the Jazz or Amaze. This means that the new model will likely offer a moderate amount of interior space which is common in subcompact crossovers.
The new Honda ZR-V [Photo: IndianAuto]
The Japanese-spec Honda ZR-V is reported to come with a measurement that spans 4,100 mm in length, 1,695 mm width, and 1,600 mm in height. Meanwhile, the Indian-spec Honda ZR-V could come with shorter dimensions under 4,000 mm in length only.
Once the Honda ZR-V is officially launched in the Indian market, it will compete against other subcompact crossovers such as the Ford EcoSport, Maruti Vitara Brezza, and Mahindra XUV3000. Its competitors in the Japanese market would include the Toyota Raize, Daihatsu Rocky, and Suzuki Crosby.
A stylish subcompact crossover ideal for the youth [Photo: IndianAuto]
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Under the hood, the Honda ZR-V is expected to run using a 1.0-liter VTEC gasoline engine good for 127 hp and 180 Nm of torque. A hybrid powertrain is also expected to be offered which comes with a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. The engines could be paired to either manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
With the Honda ZR-V’s stylish and flashy design, it could compete fairly against other subcompact crossovers in the local market that possess the same characteristics such as the Kia Stonic and Geely Coolray. However, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) hasn’t released any statement whether it will add the ZR-V to the local lineup or not. On the other hand, HCPI is planning to launch the all-new Honda City Hatchback this year.
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