FRANKFURT: Honda today unveiled three models for Europe – the new CR-V, ZR-V and all-electric e:Ny1.
The models were revealed at the brand’s European Media Event in Offenbach near here.
Honda said the sixth generation CR-V has been refined and comes with the latest driver aids and passive safety. A focus on high-quality colours, materials and fabrics throughout the cabin has elevated the CR-Vtowards the premium segment.
The CR-V will be offered with a choice of either a full hybrid (e:HEV) or, for the first time in the European market, a plug-in hybrid (e:PHEV) powertrain.
Both variants feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder direct injection Atkinson-cycle petrol engine which has been revised to enhance efficiency, refinement, and dynamic performance across the range.
The e:PHEV uses the same lightweight and high-output on-board electric motors as its e:HEV stablemate to provide quick acceleration, rapid charge times and a competitive all-electric only range.
Able to travel 82 km in electric mode, the plug-in CR-V can complete the majority of daily trips on electric drive alone. When the battery temperature is at 25 degrees, a 100% state of charge can be achieved from empty in just 2.5 hours.
The full hybrid CR-V will feature the most advanced iteration of the brand’s award-winning e:HEV powertrain, first seen in the award-winning Civic hatchback. A power-dense lithium-ion battery and two compact, lightweight electric motors combine with the petrol engine to shift seamlessly between EV, Hybrid and Engine Drive, making it ideally suited to all driving scenarios.
The all-new model retains its familiar silhouette, but with a design evolution that increases its road presence.
Visibility was another key focus during design and development. The front corner points of the CR-V are low, thanks to a wide, uncluttered bonnet, allowing drivers to understand the overall shape of the car. In combination with the large glasshouse, the CR-V offers outstanding outward visibility for all occupants.
Wider, longer, and taller than the outgoing model the all-new CR-V offers more interior space for passengers, a 40mm longer wheelbase allows for 16mm more rear legroom, and 118% more luggage capacity. Eight levels of adjustment for the rear seat recline, with 10.5° more angle, also allows passengers to relax in comfort.
An updated suite of Honda SENSING features and new structural components contribute to class-leading active and passive safety. The all-new CR-V is the first to include Honda SENSING 360, the company’s all-new omnidirectional safety and driver assist system, which removes blind spots around the vehicle and further contributes to collision avoidance by reducing the burden on the driver.
ZR-V
Positioned between HR-V and CR-V, the ZR-V is aimed at young, image conscious buyers (or Gen Z) who seek a stylish, powerful and fun to drive vehicle that can integrate into their life.
Beneath the sleek, stylish exterior is Honda’s full hybrid technology that shares DNA with the multi-award winning all-new Civic e:HEV.
Optimised for the ZR-V, the e:HEV’s efficient yet powerful 2.0-litre, four-cylinder direct injection Atkinson cycle engine works in conjunction with two motors to provide punchy, responsive acceleration.
The bespoke, lightweight, rigid chassis has been inspired by concepts seen in both the Civic and CR-V platforms, and has been engineered to deliver the driving characteristics and high levels of agility usually associated with sports hatchbacks.
The slimline headlights and stylish gloss black grille create a sophisticated aesthetic, which is continued down the SUV’s noiseless flanks and into the bold rear bumper design, with sleek horizontal taillights that neatly integrate into the tailgate. Functionality in design was a key focus for Honda engineers, with each panel and component optimised to aid visibility and enhance aerodynamic performance.
The ZR-V’s versatile cabin prioritises usability and flexible stowage capacity. This is typified by a vast array of trays and pockets, alongside a rear cargo space that features a load partition, retractable parcel cover and under floor storage, boosting the ZR-V’s load-carrying versatility up to 1,291 litres.
High-quality soft-touch materials with detailed finishing combine with stylish lighting throughout the cabin to create a premium ambience. In addition, multiple charge points and the latest HMI technology keep the driver and passengers connected to the outside world via a large nine-inch touchscreen in the centre of the upper dash panel.
e:Ny1
The e:Ny1 is Honda’s second pure EV to arrive in the region, following on from the Honda e city car, and is designed to meet the growing customer demand for all-electric B-segment SUVs.
Honda said the e:Ny1 follows its human-centred development philosophy, making the most of the model’s fully electric powertrain to deliver an SUV with fun-to-drive dynamics, a smooth and refined ride, and intuitive versatility.
The e:Ny1 features short front overhang, large wheels and a wide track. It also debuts an all-new electric identity for Honda, with white “H” badges featuring around the vehicle, including the nose badge, wheel centre caps and steering wheel.
In addition, a new typeface spells out “Honda” on the tailgate that will become a standard on the brand’s future EVs.
Honda said cever packaging of the electric drivetrain components ensure e:Ny1 offers big interior space and comfort.
An all-new centre console features a simple layout of easily accessible buttons, multiple storage options and wireless charging, while a clean dashboard topped by a large 15.1-inch touchscreen provides access to a suite of infotainment and driving options.
The e:Ny1 is built on Honda’s newly-developed e:N Architecture F, a front-motor-driven platform focused on three attributes: A dedicated high rigidity body structure, a low centre of gravity, and carefully managed under-floor aerodynamics to ensure the SUV delivers a fun and confidence-inspiring drive.
In addition, the platform incorporates a high-performance, lightweight three-in-one integrated power drive unit, electric motor and gearbox. This generates a maximum output of 150 kW, 310 Nm of torque and is engineered to provide smooth and comfortable acceleration and deceleration.
Under the floor sits a high-capacity lithium-ion battery that delivers up to 412 km (WLTP) of range and DC fast-charging capability that can go from 10 to 80% in just 45 minutes.
An all-new chassis developed specifically for battery electric vehicles has ensured improved torsional rigidity – key to this is high-tensile steel, used across 47% of the e:Ny1’s body (by weight). Alongside the new platform and powertrain, these combine to offer the dynamic performance, exceptional comfort and refinement.
Keyword: Honda reels out new CR-V, ZR-V and electric e:Ny1 for Europe