Efficiency, performance, comfort and elegance: just a few words are enough to summarize the advantages of the Honda Zr-v, the latest generation model which is positioned in the middle of the Japanese brand's SUV range between the smaller HR-v and the larger CR-V v.
And like a well-defined piece of the puzzle piece of Honda's offer for our market it fits perfectly between the two being a little longer than the HR-V and slightly shorter than the CR-V.
The only obvious point of departure - intended to satisfy the needs and tastes of European customers - is in the design.
The look is modern but reassuring at the same time, without unnecessary stylistic features or sophisticated aerodynamic solutions, even the efficiency (consumption and emissions) is among the most advantageous in the segment.
In the passenger compartment there are many solutions derived from the latest Civic, with a clear layout, easily readable displays with satisfying graphics and numerous storage spaces.
The spaciousness of the rear part is also appreciable, which does not penalize (as often happens in competitors) the comfort for the knees.
Those sitting in the back have two USB-C charging ports for electronic devices and two cup holders that 'appear' by folding the central armrest downwards.
There are two sets of easy-to-reach Isofix points which allow smaller passengers to be accommodated in safety seats at the rear.
The trunk offers a capacity of 380 liters with the seats in position but by exploiting the modularity of the rear bench it is possible to reach up to 1,312.
Furthermore, the space has been designed to facilitate stowage and unloading: the lower edge of the tailgate opening is at floor level so you can slide objects in and out without problems.
There is the useful possibility of stowing the boot cover (the so-called parcel shelf) under the floor and there are - which is very pleasing to those who put supermarket bags in the boot - hooks on both sides of the whiteboards.
And there is also a 12 Volt socket.
Credited with a consumption of just 5.7 litres/100 km (Wltp) and CO2 emissions contained in 130 g/km - thanks to the efficient hybrid system with double electric motor and 2.0 liter thermal unit with direct injection and Atkinson cycle for from 135 kW (184 HP) in total - Honda Zr-v gives its best in conditions in which it is possible to fully exploit the electrical section.
And there are many, because they range from maneuvers to driving in the city, from 'tails' to more rapid motorway speeds.
This is because the e:HEV scheme and the electronic management system choose the most advantageous combination.
Three driving modes are provided, namely Electric Drive for silent and powerful electric propulsion.
Hybrid Drive to exploit sporty behavior even over long distances.
And finally Engine Drive, to guarantee maximum support for the combustion engine when traveling at a constant and high speed.
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