HONDA ZR-V 2025 Review

The Honda ZR-V has been making waves in the compact SUV market since its introduction in 2022. As we look ahead to the 2025 model year, Honda continues to refine and enhance this popular vehicle, striking a balance between urban agility and adventurous capability. The 2025 Honda ZR-V represents a significant step forward in the model’s evolution, building upon its initial success while embracing cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

As we delve into the details of the 2025 ZR-V, we’ll explore how Honda has refined and enhanced every aspect of this versatile SUV, from its exterior design to its powertrain options, and from its advanced technology features to its environmental impact.

Exterior Design

The 2025 Honda ZR-V maintains its sleek and sporty silhouette while introducing subtle yet impactful design updates. The overall styling continues to blend Honda’s contemporary design language with a touch of ruggedness that speaks to its SUV heritage.

Styling Changes

The front fascia has been subtly resculpted, featuring a more prominent grille design that improves both aesthetics and cooling efficiency. The headlights have been slimmed down, now featuring full LED technology as standard across all trim levels.

The side profile remains largely unchanged, preserving the ZR-V’s dynamic proportions. However, new character lines have been added to enhance its visual appeal and improve aerodynamics.

At the rear, the tailgate has been redesigned to offer a wider opening for improved cargo access. The taillights now feature a distinctive LED signature that enhances visibility and adds a modern touch to the overall design.

Color Options

Honda has expanded the color palette for the 2025 ZR-V, introducing several new options that reflect both its urban sophistication and adventurous spirit:

• Sonic Gray Pearl – A modern, tech-inspired shade
• Canyon River Blue – A vibrant, nature-inspired hue
• Platinum White Pearl – A crisp, premium color
• Radiant Red Metallic – A bold, energetic option

In addition to these new colors, Honda continues to offer a range of classic ZR-V hues, including Crystal Black Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic, and Lunar Silver Metallic.

Lighting Upgrades

The 2025 ZR-V comes standard with full LED lighting. The headlights now feature adaptive technology that adjusts the light pattern based on driving conditions, improving visibility on winding roads and reducing glare for oncoming traffic. The daytime running lights have been redesigned to create a more distinctive light signature, enhancing the vehicle’s presence on the road.

Wheel and Tire Options

Honda offers a range of wheel options for the 2025 ZR-V, including:

• 17-inch alloy wheels (standard on base models)
• 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels
• 19-inch dark gray alloy wheels (available on high-end trims)

Each wheel design has been optimized for both aesthetics and performance. Tire options include all-season and all-weather varieties from premium manufacturers, allowing owners to tailor their ZR-V to their specific needs and local climate conditions.

Body Panel Materials and Construction

The 2025 ZR-V utilizes a mix of materials in its construction, balancing durability, weight, and sustainability:

• The body structure is made from high-strength steel, providing excellent rigidity and crash protection.
• The hood and some body panels are made from aluminum to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency.
• Certain trim pieces utilize recycled plastics, showcasing Honda’s commitment to sustainability.

These material choices contribute to the ZR-V’s excellent safety ratings while also improving fuel efficiency and overall performance.

Interior Features

The interior of the 2025 Honda ZR-V strikes a balance between comfort, functionality, and premium feel, with significant upgrades in technology and materials.

Seating Configuration and Capacity

The ZR-V remains a 5-seater SUV, but with improvements to comfort and versatility:

• Redesigned front seats with enhanced lateral support and available 10-way power adjustment
• Rear seats with a new 40/20/40 split-folding configuration for improved cargo flexibility
• Available heated and ventilated front seats, with heated rear seats on higher trim levels

All seats have been redesigned with new foam densities and improved ergonomics for enhanced comfort on long journeys.

Dashboard Layout and Design

The dashboard has been refined for 2025, focusing on user-friendly design and premium materials:

• The central touchscreen has been enlarged to 10.2 inches (up from 9 inches) and now features a higher resolution display.
• A new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard across all trim levels, offering customizable displays.
• Physical controls for critical functions like climate control and volume adjustment have been retained, ensuring ease of use while driving.
• A new head-up display is available on higher trim levels, projecting key information onto the windshield.

Infotainment System Updates

The 2025 ZR-V’s infotainment system has received a significant overhaul:

• New Honda Connect system with faster processing and improved user interface
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard
• Over-the-air update capability for both infotainment and vehicle systems
• New voice control system with natural language processing
• Integration with Honda’s new smartphone app for remote vehicle control and monitoring

Material Quality and Trim Options

Honda has elevated the material quality in the 2025 ZR-V, offering:

• Soft-touch materials on all major touchpoints
• Available leather upholstery with a new, more durable treatment
• Sustainable fabric options made from recycled materials on lower trim levels
• Real wood trim sourced from responsibly managed forests (on high-end trims)
• Brushed aluminum accents with a new, more tactile finish

Higher trim levels now feature additional sound insulation for a quieter cabin, enhancing the premium feel of the interior.

Cargo Space and Versatility

The ZR-V’s cargo area remains one of the most versatile in its class:

• Up to 1,000 liters of cargo space behind the second row
• Maximum cargo capacity of 2,000 liters with rear seats folded
• New for 2025: hands-free power tailgate with adjustable height setting
• Underfloor storage compartment for organizing smaller items
• Reversible cargo floor with carpet on one side and easy-clean plastic on the other

The 40/20/40 split rear seats allow for a variety of passenger and cargo configurations, making the ZR-V exceptionally versatile for both daily use and weekend adventures.

Powertrain Options

The 2025 Honda ZR-V offers a range of powertrain options to suit various markets and customer needs, with a strong emphasis on efficiency and electrification.

Available Engines

Gasoline:

• 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder: 190 hp, 240 Nm of torque
• 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder: 158 hp, 187 Nm of torque

Hybrid (e:HEV):

• 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine combined with two electric motors: Total system output of 215 hp and 315 Nm of torque

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) (new for 2025):

• 1.5-liter turbocharged engine combined with a larger electric motor: Total system output of 225 hp and 350 Nm of torque

Transmission Choices

• Gasoline models: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Hybrid (e:HEV) models: e-CVT (electric continuously variable transmission)
• PHEV models: New 8-speed automatic transmission

Fuel Efficiency Ratings

Fuel efficiency has been improved across the range thanks to powertrain refinements and aerodynamic enhancements:

• 1.5-liter turbo: 7.0 L/100km combined
• 2.0-liter NA: 7.5 L/100km combined
• Hybrid (e:HEV): 4.5 L/100km combined
• PHEV: 1.8 L/100km combined, 65 km of all-electric range

Performance Specifications

1.5-liter turbo:

• 0-100 km/h: 8.0 seconds
• Top speed: 200 km/h

2.0-liter NA:

• 0-100 km/h: 9.2 seconds
• Top speed: 190 km/h

Hybrid (e:HEV):

• 0-100 km/h: 7.8 seconds
• Top speed: 180 km/h

PHEV:

• 0-100 km/h: 7.0 seconds
• Top speed: 200 km/h
• All-electric top speed: 135 km/h

These powertrains offer a range of options from efficient daily drivers to more powerful variants, all while maintaining the ZR-V’s reputation for reliability and smooth operation.

Off-Road Capabilities

While primarily designed for urban and highway driving, the 2025 Honda ZR-V offers respectable capabilities for light off-road use, especially in all-wheel-drive configurations.

All-Wheel Drive System

The ZR-V’s available Real Time AWD™ with Intelligent Control System™ has been further refined for 2025:

• Faster response time for improved traction in slippery conditions
• New torque-vectoring capability for enhanced cornering performance
• Ability to send up to 50% of power to the rear wheels when needed

Drive Modes

The 2025 ZR-V features an expanded Drive Mode system:

• Normal: Balanced for everyday driving
• Eco: Optimizes fuel efficiency
• Sport: Sharpens throttle response and adjusts AWD for more dynamic handling
• Snow: Optimizes traction in slippery conditions
• New for 2025: Trail mode, which adjusts throttle mapping, transmission behavior, and traction control for light off-road use

Ground Clearance and Angles

The 2025 ZR-V maintains its urban-friendly dimensions while offering adequate clearance for light off-road use:

• Ground clearance: 185 mm (7.3 inches)
• Approach angle: 18.5 degrees
• Departure angle: 23 degrees
• Breakover angle: 15.5 degrees

These figures ensure that the ZR-V can handle unpaved roads and light trails with confidence.

Towing Capacity

The 2025 ZR-V offers competitive towing capacity for its class:

• 1.5-liter turbo and 2.0-liter NA models: Up to 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs) when properly equipped
• Hybrid (e:HEV) models: Up to 750 kg (1,653 lbs)
• PHEV models: Up to 1,000 kg (2,205 lbs)

New for 2025 is an advanced Trailer Stability Assist system that helps maintain control when towing.

Advanced Technology

The 2025 Honda ZR-V comes equipped with a host of advanced technologies that enhance safety, convenience, and the overall driving experience.

Driver Assistance Features

Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies, now with improved hardware and software:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with improved pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) with enhanced lane detection
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and improved stop-and-go functionality
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) with more natural steering feel
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR)
• New for 2025: Level 2+ hands-free highway driving assist (on select trims)

Connectivity Options

• 5G connectivity for faster data transfer and improved online services
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Built-in Wi-Fi hotspot capable of supporting up to 7 devices
• Over-the-air software updates for both infotainment and vehicle systems
• New Honda smartphone app with remote start, climate control, vehicle location, and service reminders

Navigation System Improvements

• New high-definition mapping with more detailed road and terrain information
• Real-time traffic updates with dynamic rerouting
• Integration with charging station locator for PHEV models
• New augmented reality navigation option that overlays directional prompts on a live camera feed (on select trims)

Audio System Upgrades

• Standard: 180W system with 6 speakers
• Mid-range: 320W system with 8 speakers
• Premium: 540W system with 12 speakers, including a subwoofer, developed in partnership with a renowned audio brand
• New for 2025: Active Sound Control system that can either reduce unwanted cabin noise or enhance the engine sound in Sport mode

Safety Features

Safety remains a top priority for Honda, and the 2025 ZR-V introduces several new features while improving existing ones.

Standard Safety Equipment

• Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure
• 10 airbags, including new front knee airbags and rear side airbags
• Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Rear seat reminder system
• ISOFIX child seat anchors for rear outboard seats

Optional Safety Packages

Honda Sensing™ Elite Package:

• Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor
• Low-Speed Braking Control
• Front and rear parking sensors
• 360-degree camera system with new 3D view option

Family Safety Package:

• CabinWatch® rear seat camera system
• Rear-seat occupant reminder
• Advanced Rear Seat Belt Reminder

Crash Test Ratings

While crash test ratings for the 2025 model are not yet available, Honda is targeting top ratings in both Euro NCAP and NHTSA testing. Based on the previous model’s performance and the improvements made, it’s expected that the 2025 ZR-V will achieve:

• 5-star overall rating from Euro NCAP
• 5-star overall rating from NHTSA
• Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS

Trim Levels and Customization

The 2025 Honda ZR-V offers a range of trim levels and extensive customization options to suit various preferences and needs.

Available Trim Options

ZR-V LX (Base model):

• 2.0-liter NA engine
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Fabric seats
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system

ZR-V Sport:

• 1.5-liter turbo engine
• 18-inch dark gray alloy wheels
• Sport-tuned suspension
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob

ZR-V EX:

• 1.5-liter turbo engine
• 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels
• Heated front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control

ZR-V EX-L:

• 1.5-liter turbo engine
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Premium audio system

ZR-V Touring:

• 1.5-liter turbo engine or Hybrid powertrain
• 19-inch unique alloy wheels
• Hands-free power tailgate
• Navigation system with 10.2-inch touchscreen

ZR-V PHEV (new for 2025):

• Plug-in Hybrid powertrain
• Unique 18-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels
• Special hybrid displays and EV mode controls
• Level 2 home charging cable included

Special Editions or Limited-Run Models

ZR-V Black Edition:

• Exclusive Crystal Black Pearl paint
• Black 19-inch alloy wheels
• Black exterior trim elements
• Red ambient interior lighting

ZR-V Adventure Edition:

• Increased ground clearance (+15mm)
• All-terrain tires
• Roof rails and crossbars
• Adventure-themed interior trim

Aftermarket and Factory Customization Options

Honda offers a wide range of factory and Honda Genuine Accessories for the 2025 ZR-V:

Exterior Accessories:

• Front and rear underbody spoilers
• Side body molding

• Roof rack and crossbars
• Bike, ski, and kayak attachments
• Rear bumper protector
• Door visors

Interior Accessories:

• All-season floor mats
• Cargo liner
• Illuminated door sill trim
• Wireless charging pad
• Ambient lighting kit

Protection Package:

• Front and rear splash guards
• Door edge film
• Hood edge deflector

Towing Package:

• Trailer hitch
• Trailer hitch harness
• Hitch ball

These customization options allow ZR-V owners to tailor their vehicles to their specific lifestyle needs, whether for urban commuting, outdoor adventures, or family trips.

Pricing and Availability

Base Price and Pricing for Different Trims

Pricing for the 2025 Honda ZR-V is expected to start at:

• ZR-V LX: $28,000
• ZR-V Sport: $30,500
• ZR-V EX: $32,000
• ZR-V EX-L: $34,500
• ZR-V Touring: $37,000
• ZR-V PHEV: $40,000

Please note that these prices are estimates based on previous model years and industry trends. Actual pricing may vary and will be confirmed closer to the release date.

Special editions and limited-run models are likely to command a premium over these base prices, with some exclusive versions potentially exceeding $45,000.

Market Availability and Release Date

The 2025 Honda ZR-V is expected to be available in most global markets, including:

• North America
• Europe
• Japan
• China
• Southeast Asia
• Australia

The release date is anticipated to be in the fourth quarter of 2024 for most markets, with some regions possibly seeing a slightly later release in early 2025. Pre-orders are likely to open in mid-2024.

Warranty Information

Honda is expected to offer a comprehensive warranty package for the 2025 ZR-V:

New Vehicle Limited Warranty:

• 3 years or 36,000 miles (60,000 km), whichever comes first

Powertrain Warranty:

• 5 years or 60,000 miles (100,000 km), whichever comes first

Rust Perforation Warranty:

• 5 years with unlimited mileage

Emissions Warranty:

• Varies by state/country, typically 3 years or 36,000 miles (60,000 km)

Hybrid/PHEV Battery Warranty:

• 8 years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km) for capacity retention above 70%

Roadside Assistance:

• 3 years with unlimited mileage

Honda may also offer extended warranty options and Honda Care service plans for customers seeking additional peace of mind.

Comparison with Competitors

The 2025 Honda ZR-V competes in the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of efficiency, technology, and versatility. Here’s how it stacks up against some key competitors:

Honda ZR-V 2025 vs Toyota RAV4

Pros for ZR-V:

• More refined ride quality
• More advanced infotainment system
• Sportier handling

Pros for RAV4:

• Slightly larger cargo space
• More powerful base engine
• Established hybrid reputation

Honda ZR-V 2025 vs Mazda CX-5

Pros for ZR-V:

• Better fuel efficiency
• More advanced driver assistance features
• Newer platform with latest technology

Pros for CX-5:

• More premium interior feel
• More powerful turbocharged engine option
• Sharper exterior styling

Honda ZR-V 2025 vs Nissan Rogue

Pros for ZR-V:

• Sportier driving dynamics
• More powertrain options, including PHEV
• Honda’s reputation for reliability

Pros for Rogue:

• Slightly more spacious interior
• Available ProPilot Assist system
• Potentially lower starting price

Unique Selling Points of the ZR-V 2025

• Sleek, modern design that stands out in the compact SUV segment
• Wide range of powertrain options, including a new PHEV variant
• Advanced technology features, including new hands-free driving assist
• Honda’s reputation for reliability and resale value
• Balanced approach to performance, efficiency, and practicality
• Extensive customization options to suit various lifestyles

Environmental Impact

Honda has made significant efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the 2025 ZR-V, aligning with increasing global focus on sustainability.

Emissions Ratings

• Gasoline models: Euro 6d and EPA Tier 3 compliant
• Hybrid (e:HEV) model: SULEV30 rated (Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle)
• PHEV model: SULEV20 rated with zero-emission capability

Specific CO2 emissions figures:

• 1.5-liter turbo: 160 g/km
• 2.0-liter NA: 170 g/km
• Hybrid (e:HEV): 102 g/km
• PHEV: 40 g/km

Sustainable Materials Used in Production

Honda has increased its use of sustainable materials in the 2025 ZR-V:

• Recycled plastics used in underbody shields and wheel well liners
• Bio-fabric seat material option made from renewable sources
• Soundproofing materials made from recycled clothing fibers
• Recycled aluminum used in various body components
• Low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) interior materials for improved air quality

Honda’s Commitment to Sustainability

Honda has outlined several initiatives as part of its commitment to sustainability:

• “Honda 2030 Vision”: Aiming for two-thirds of global automobile sales to be electrified vehicles by 2030
• Carbon neutrality goal: Working towards carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050
• Green factory initiatives: Implementing energy-saving technologies and increasing use of renewable energy in production facilities
• End-of-life vehicle recycling program: Enhancing recyclability and proper disposal of vehicles
• Tree planting and reforestation projects in various regions

Maintenance and Ownership Experience

Service Intervals

The 2025 Honda ZR-V is designed for ease of maintenance, with service intervals as follows:

• Gasoline models: Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
• Hybrid (e:HEV) models: Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first
• PHEV model: Every 12,000 miles (20,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first

Projected Reliability

While long-term reliability data for the 2025 model is not yet available, Honda has a strong reputation for building reliable vehicles:

• Use of proven powertrain components across the Honda range
• Extensive real-world testing in various climates and conditions
• Improved quality control measures in manufacturing
• Simplified electrical systems for improved durability

Initial quality surveys and early owner reports suggest that the ZR-V is likely to continue Honda’s tradition of above-average reliability in the compact SUV segment.

Resale Value Estimates

Honda vehicles traditionally enjoy strong resale values, and the ZR-V is expected to follow this trend:

• Gasoline models are expected to retain approximately 50-55% of their value after three years
• The Hybrid (e:HEV) model may see slightly higher retention rates due to increasing demand for electrified vehicles
• Resale value for the PHEV model is harder to predict but is expected to be strong given the growing market for plug-in vehicles

Factors that can positively influence resale value include:

• Lower mileage
• Well-documented service history
• Popular color combinations
• Higher trim levels
• Desirable optional equipment

Reviews and Reception

As the 2025 Honda ZR-V has not yet been released, there are no specific reviews available. However, based on the reception of the current generation ZR-V and anticipated improvements, we can make some informed predictions about how it might be received.

Expert Opinions and Early Reviews

Automotive journalists and industry experts are likely to focus on several key areas:

• Improved driving dynamics and comfort
• Enhanced technology features, particularly the new infotainment system
• Performance and efficiency of the new PHEV powertrain
• Interior quality and space utilization
• Overall value proposition in the competitive compact SUV segment

Early preview drives and first impressions are expected to highlight:

• The balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride
• The effectiveness of the expanded Honda Sensing™ suite of safety features
• The user-friendliness of the new infotainment system
• The versatility of the interior space and cargo area

Customer Feedback

While customer feedback for the 2025 model is not yet available, feedback on the current generation ZR-V has been largely positive, with owners praising:

• Fuel efficiency, particularly in hybrid models
• Comfortable and well-designed interior
• Smooth and quiet ride
• Reliability and low maintenance costs
• Advanced safety features

Areas where customers may be looking for improvements in the 2025 model include:

• More powerful engine options
• Enhanced infotainment system with larger screens
• Improved smartphone integration
• More cargo space
• Better sound insulation in gasoline models

As with any vehicle, individual experiences may vary, and it will take time for comprehensive, long-term owner reviews to become available after the 2025 model’s release.

Conclusion

The 2025 Honda ZR-V represents a significant evolution of Honda’s compact SUV offering, building upon the strengths of its predecessor while pushing boundaries in technology, efficiency, and user experience.

Summary of Key Improvements and Features

• Expanded powertrain options, including a new PHEV variant, catering to a wide range of customer needs and environmental considerations
• Advanced technology integration, from improved driver assistance systems to a more intuitive infotainment interface
• Refined styling that maintains the ZR-V’s sporty character while enhancing its premium feel
• Improved interior comfort and versatility, with new seating configurations and enhanced materials
• Continued focus on safety, with an expanded suite of Honda Sensing™ features
• Increased use of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes, aligning with global environmental concerns

Future Outlook for the ZR-V Line

The 2025 ZR-V sets the stage for the future of Honda’s compact SUV lineup, indicating several potential directions:

• Further electrification across the range, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains likely to play an increasingly important role
• Continued advancement in driver assistance technologies, potentially paving the way for higher levels of autonomy in future models
• Expansion of connectivity features, turning the ZR-V into a more integrated part of users’ digital lives
• Ongoing refinement of the balance between sportiness and practicality, catering to a broad spectrum of customers
• Potential for performance-oriented variants or special editions that cater to enthusiast drivers

As Honda continues to innovate and adapt to changing market demands, the ZR-V is poised to remain a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. Its blend of efficiency, technology, and versatility ensures that it will continue to appeal to a wide range of customers, from young professionals to small families.

The 2025 Honda ZR-V is not just an evolution of a popular model; it’s a statement of Honda’s vision for the future of personal mobility – efficient, connected, safe, and enjoyable to drive. As it hits the roads in 2025, it will undoubtedly continue to build on Honda’s reputation for quality and innovation in the automotive industry.