Honda ZR-V delivers hybrid polish without a plug

Three years after Honda's ZR-V set out its stall to be an SUV capable of delivering dynamic driving and a plugless hybrid that could serve up accomplished fuel economy, it continues to shine.

Underpinned by the same hybrid drivetrain as the Honda Civic hatchback, the mid-sized SUV sits between the Japanese carmaker’s HR-V and CR-V, with prices starting at £36,595 for the Elegance trim.

Sport versions (£38,785) serve up some choice style upgrades, with further specification highlights added to the £41,545 Advance tested here.

Those in the market for a family SUV should note that you will sit slightly lower than in Kia’s Sportage or Volkswagen’s Tiguan in a ZR-V.

Like the Civic, it aims to be a plug-free hybrid capable of delivering dynamic rewards and its relatively low stance and sporty driving position are testament to that.

All ZR-Vs feature 18-inch alloys, parking sensors, a reversing camera, keyless entry and starting, adaptive cruise control and heated front seats.

The range-topping Advance adds a 12-speaker Bose sound system, leather seats heated in the front and back, a heated steering wheel, wireless phone charger and a panoramic sunroof.

The ZR-V’s cabin is very similar to that of the Civic. A mesh grille spans the dashboard, containing air vents which are directed using neat toggles.

A useful array of physical controls include three user-friendly dials to adjust the climate settings.

And, while the modestly proportioned infotainment system’s graphics look a little rudimentary and its lack of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto was notable, its functionality is aided by a volume dial.

A sculptural centre console is clad in squidgy, soft touch material and, although the cabin’s materials are a little dark, the build quality cannot be questioned.

As in the Civic, rear legroom is ample. However, the ZR-V actually has a smaller boot, with its rather disappointing 370-litre space falling well short of some rivals.

But, true to its reclined driving position, it drives better than most.

Honda’s impressive e:HEV hybrid drivetrain prioritises electric propulsion, its two-litre engine acting largely as a generator and only driving the front wheels under heavy loads.

Consequently, the ZR-V runs quiet and smooth around town.

That said, the engine can be a little raucous when urgently called upon. Furthermore, the cabin is a little less refined than some rivals at motorway speeds.

Gutsy power delivery and impressive poise make the ZR-V an enjoyable steer, though.

The ease with which it regularly returned over 50 miles per gallon was also a significant bonus.

With many SUV drivers now opting for plug-in hybrid drivetrains, the ZR-V is doing what Honda does best and ploughing its own furrow.

The impressive breadth of ability of Honda’s e:HEV system will have many who experience it questioning the benefits of plugging in.

Honda ZR-V e:HEV Advance

Price: £41,545

Engine: two-litre petrol hybrid

Power: 181bhp

Torque: 315Nm

Transmission: e-CVT

Top Speed: 108mph

Economy: 48.7mpg (WLTP combined)

0-62mph: 8.0 seconds

CO2 emissions: 132g/km