Honda’s new flagship hybrid SUV arrives as a CBU with dual-motor power, premium features and bookings now open
The launch of the updated Honda City has coincided with Honda unveiling the new Honda ZR-V Hybrid as its flagship SUV for India. The Honda ZR-V Hybrid will be brought to India as a completely built unit (CBU), and bookings for the SUV are now open. Deliveries are scheduled to begin from July 2026.
Positioned as the flagship model in Honda’s India lineup, the ZR-V Hybrid marks the automaker’s latest entry into the premium hybrid SUV segment. Expected to be priced between Rs 40 lakh and Rs 50 lakh (ex-showroom), the SUV will compete with models such as the Skoda Kodiaq, Volkswagen Tayron and Jeep Meridian.
Strong-Hybrid Powertrain With Dual Motors
The India-spec ZR-V Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with Honda’s dual-motor strong-hybrid system. Power is sent to the front wheels through an e-CVT transmission, with the setup producing a combined output of 184 hp and 315 Nm.
According to Honda, the SUV can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 172 km/h. Claimed fuel efficiency stands at 22.79 kmpl, making it one of the more fuel-efficient SUVs in its segment considering its performance.
Globally, Honda also offers another version of the ZR-V with an all-wheel-drive system and a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 180 hp and 240 Nm.
Sporty Exterior Design
In terms of styling, the Honda ZR-V Hybrid features a sleek crossover-inspired design with sporty detailing. The front fascia gets slim LED headlamps, L-shaped DRLs and a blacked-out grille, along with functional air intakes integrated into the bumper.
The SUV rides on 18-inch alloy wheels and comes equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels. At the rear, it gets wraparound LED tail-lamps with U-shaped lighting elements instead of the full-width light bars commonly seen on modern SUVs. Integrated exhaust outlets, silver bumper garnish, a roof spoiler and a rear wiper further enhance its sporty appearance.
Dimensionally, the ZR-V measures 4,567 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width and 1,621 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,655 mm. Boot space expands up to 1,313 litres with the rear seats folded down.
Feature-Rich Cabin With Physical Controls
Inside, the cabin follows a minimalist design theme and features a dual-screen layout comprising a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported.
Features include dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, wireless phone charging, leatherette upholstery and a 12-speaker Bose sound system. Convenience features include an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 4-way adjustable front passenger seat and a powered tailgate.
Honda has also retained several physical buttons and knobs for media, climate control and drive modes. The transmission selector uses a button-operated interface. However, the SUV misses out on certain features offered by rivals, such as ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof.
On the safety front, the ZR-V Hybrid comes equipped with eight airbags, a Level 2 ADAS suite, a 360-degree camera and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS).
Conclusion
The arrival of the Honda ZR-V Hybrid signals a renewed focus on the premium hybrid SUV segment by the Japanese automaker in India, especially as demand for fuel-efficient SUVs continues to grow. Although its CBU status and expected high pricing may limit sales volumes, the ZR-V Hybrid could help strengthen Honda’s premium image in India while showcasing the brand’s hybrid technology ahead of future locally developed hybrid models.
