Honda's ZR-V: a premium medium SUV packed with safety and features, but pricey

Honda's ZR-V is an enticing option in the medium SUV segment, but it’s arguably priced high.

Still, it’s a premium offering arguably worth the premium price tag especially for a car that garnered a four-star Euro NCAP score in December 2023.

The ZR-V is in fact the latest Honda car to feature the company’s advanced suite of Honda Sensing technologies as standard. Combined with a comprehensive airbag system and impressive all-round collision performance, the ZR-V achieves high levels of both active and passive safety.

A limited-time financing offer with deposit contribution further enhances its value proposition, making it a worthwhile consideration for buyers seeking a well-rounded hybrid SUV.

The offer which ends on September 30, allows buyers to benefit from a 6.9% APR with a £2,500 deposit. Based on 37-month Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) deal, the total amount payable on a ZR-V e:HEV Full Hybrid Elegance is £44,757.73 at £439 per month.

Supported by a comprehensive ownership package of a five-year service plan; five-year warranty; and five-year roadside assistance, makes the ZR-V an even more attractive proposition.

That aside, it’s a car that is not only comfortable and enjoyable to drive but one that also offers a well-crafted space that is practical and contemporary that gives the cabin a superior edge.

One of the highlights of the ZR-V's interior is its user-friendly control layout. Climate control functions are operated through separate buttons and dials, making adjustments straightforward without distracting from driving.

Standard features across the range include a 10.2-inch digital driver’s display and a nine-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay,

Behind the standard-fit leather steering wheel, the driver’s display offers customizable graphics and multiple views, allowing drivers to tailor the display to their preferences. The screen's dark background with coloured graphics ensures excellent readability.

While the ZR-V's interior design is excellent, it predominantly features a somewhat sombre colour scheme, the design and quality of materials ensure the cabin feels upmarket

With simple lines, metallic detailing, and a horizontal bar housing the air conditioning vents, the ZR-V's interior feels contemporary and user-friendly.

The ZR-V is available in three trim levels: Elegance, Sport, and Advance. Even the entry-level Elegance is well-equipped, while the trim of the mid-range Sport which AM test drove adds conveniences like wireless smartphone charging, extra USB ports, a powered tailgate, and half-leather seats. The top-tier Advance trim enhances the luxury further with a panoramic sunroof and a Bose sound system.

Visibility is excellent, thanks to a large rear window, ample wing mirrors, and relatively slim A-pillars. Standard features like a rear-facing camera and front and rear parking sensors enhance manoeuvrability.

Synthetic leather has been used for the dashboard and surrounds the button-press gear selector, giving a premium touch to the interior. After driving the car for 2,000 miles over three months, keeping surfaces clean was easy through the choice of material surfaces.

One downside for families would be the relatively small boot space at 370-litres - 1,291 litres with the rear seats folded flat – does not compare as well to rivals in the SUV space although AM found that a weekend family outing with four medium sized suitcases was more than easily accommodated.

Price: From £39,495

Engine: 1993cc four-cylinder hybrid

Power: 104bhp @ 6000rpm, 137lb ft @ 4500rpm (plus 135kW electric motor)

Transmission: Single-speed automatic, front-wheel drive

Performance: 7.9 sec 0-62mph; 107mph,

Efficiency: 48.7mpg, 131g/km CO2