The Honda ZR-V, set to arrive in the UK in September, shares many technical features with the Civic. In Europe, it is exclusively available with a hybrid powertrain.

Powering the ZR-V is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine that produces 141bhp. However, the engine primarily acts as a generator, either powering the 181bhp electric motor or storing energy in the 1.05kWh battery. While the engine does not directly drive the wheels for the most part, there is a clutch in the transaxle that can connect the engine to the front wheels through an overdrive gear during motorway cruising.

With the engine not being constantly connected to the wheels, the software has more control over its performance. This means that the engine can be shut off, simulate being connected to a CVT or eight-speed automatic gearbox, or maintain a specific RPM to charge the battery, depending on the load.

While much of the ZR-V’s interior design is consistent with the Civic, it does have some unique features. The dashboard features a horizontal strip of air vents and convenient clicky buttons for the climate control. The 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, though not the sharpest, offers shortcut buttons and wireless smartphone mirroring for ease of use. The materials used in the ZR-V have been slightly upgraded compared to the Civic, with more soft-touch surfaces on the doors and a sculpted center console with storage space underneath.

Unlike the Civic, the ZR-V does not offer a manual version. As a result, the driving experience is slightly different, positioned slightly higher than the Civic. While the Civic places you low with plenty of legroom and comfortable seating, the ZR-V adopts a more upright seating position, which may appeal to hatchback enthusiasts but potentially disappoint those seeking a true SUV experience.

Notably, the ZR-V is equipped with metal paddles, a feature not seen in Honda vehicles since the iconic NSX. These paddles are used to adjust brake regeneration levels.