The new Honda ZR-V wants to be all things to all people

As well as revealing a new version of the CR-V this morning, Honda in its infinite wisdom has decided to simultaneously introduce a C-segment SUV called, drumroll please… the ZR-V.

Yup, in its bid to fill in the gap between the CR-V and the much larger HR-V, Honda has reached for a letter that intersects neither in the alphabet. Confused? Us too.

Perhaps it’s a reference to Generation Z, because the Z-RV is aimed at young people. Specifically ‘young, image conscious buyers’ who want style and power and practicality and basically everything in one car.

Using the same hybrid technology installed in the latest version of the Civic hatchback, the ZR-V blends a 2.0-litre 4cyl engine with two electric motors for ‘punchy, responsive acceleration’ claims the firm.

Inside there’s a nine-inch touchscreen and multiple USB charging points (one each of USB-A and -C in the centre console, goodbye adaptors!) plus a wireless smartphone charging plate up front.

Honda says the cabin is stuffed full of trays and pockets for handy storage throughout, and with the rear seats down you’re looking at 1,291 litres of cargo space. There’s also a load partition in the boot, plus a retractable parcel cover and under-floor storage.

The company is also talking up its use of high-quality, soft-touch materials and ‘stylish lighting throughout the cabin’. It’s going premium, in other words. Just like everyone else.

“The all-new Honda ZR-V has been designed and engineered to support busy, active lifestyles, and is a compelling addition to our SUV line-up,” said Yutaka Kato, ZR-V large project leader. “Combining day-to-day functionality, exceptional comfort levels and appealing design with sporty dynamics and our exceptional e:HEV hybrid powertrain, this is the perfect evolution of our European model range.”

Which brings us to the styling. It certainly looks less fussy than some of Honda’s more recent efforts; kinda looks like a mashup of the MG4 and Maserati GranTurismo… no?

Observations in the usual place, please.