Honda to launch new SUV this autumn

The Yomiuri Shimbun

1:00 JST, July 16, 2022

Honda Motor Co. announced Thursday that it will launch a new sport utility vehicle named “ZR-V” this autumn. The SUV market has grown around the world, and the automaker intends to aggressively promote the model in Japan.

Two models of the SUV can be pre-ordered from September. A twin-motor hybrid version will be available, combining a 2.0-liter direct injection engine as used in the “Civic” model. A gasoline-powered version equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo engine was also unveiled. Prices will be announced shortly.

The size of the new SUV is between Honda’s “CR-V” and “Vezel” compact models. The ZR-V went on sale in the United States in June under the name “HR-V”, receiving about 6,000 orders.

Honda has seen strong sales of its Vezel since its launch in 2021. In the same year, the automaker discontinued the production of the Legend high-end sedans and the Odyssey minivans. The company plan to strengthen sales of the ZR-V in the United States and China.