Honda is set to launch TWO new models later this year - the fully-electric e:Ny1 and the hybrid ZR-V.
The Honda e:Ny1 (‘anyone’, in case you hadn’t already twigged…) is a compact SUV with a range of up to 256 miles between charges and which will rival the Jeep Avenger and the Kia Niro EV for your lease money.
The Honda ZR-V (below) is a frugal self-charging hybrid that shares plenty of DNA with the Civic e:HEV hatchback.
The ZR-V is what’s known in the industry as a ‘C-segment SUV’ - ie, a crossover between a hatchback and an SUV and which will appeal to busy families, much like the Nissan Qashqai and the Kia Sportage.
Both vehicles have been unveiled at Honda’s European Media Event in Offenbach, Germany.
And they could arrive pretty sharpish, as both are slated for a full launch in 2023.
Here’s everything we know so far:
Honda e:Ny1
Remarkably, the e:Ny1 is just the second fully-electric car we’ve seen from Honda.
The first was the Honda e - a brilliant urban-dweller with stunning retro lines and a space-age interior, but which has a rather limited range between charges.
The e:Ny1, however, will change all that, coming with a healthy range of up to 256 miles between charges while also boasting plenty of get-up-and-go.
At the heart of the e:Ny1 is a 68.8 kWh battery that offers power of up to 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque.
That’s right up there with the rapid little Cupra Born or the Renault Megane E-Tech Electric.
DC fast-charging should also let you replenish the battery from 10 to 80% in just 45 minutes.
Honda promises that the interior is ‘remarkable’, in that it offers plenty of space, while the cabin is dominated by a large 15.1-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Tom Gardner, Senior Vice President at Honda Motor Europe Ltd, tells us:
“The e:Ny1 is the logical next step on our electrification journey in Europe. Our development philosophy blends intelligent, customer-centric technology with beautiful design and fun-to-drive dynamics. This latest SUV exemplifies Honda’s commitment to electrification and is the latest step on Honda’s electrification journey.”
Honda ZR-V
While not a fully-electric model, the new Honda ZR-V still boasts electrification tech in the form of a full, self-charging hybrid system.
It’s the same e:HEV powertrain that sits in the Honda Civic, and features a traditional 2.0 litre petrol engine that works in conjunction with two motors to provide ‘punchy, responsive acceleration’, says Honda.
Size wise, the ZR-V should slot straight in between the more compact Honda HR-V and the larger Honda CR-V, and promises plenty of practicality as well as a ‘premium interior’, according to the manufacturer.
The ZR-V should make for an engaging drive, too.
A Honda spokesperson reveals: “The ZR-V is aimed at young, image conscious buyers who seek a stylish, powerful and fun to drive vehicle that can seamlessly integrate into their life. The bespoke, lightweight, rigid chassis has been inspired by concepts seen in both the Civic and CR-V platforms, and has been engineered to deliver the driving characteristics and high levels of agility usually associated with sports hatchbacks. Steering is effortless yet rewarding thanks to a refined feedback control logic and low-friction components, whilst the multi-link rear suspension and optimised bushes ensure a comfortable yet engaging drive that boosts confidence and comfort behind the wheel.”
If it’s anything like the Honda Civic e:HEV it’s sure to be a winner, as the refreshed Civic has picked up a host of industry awards in recent weeks, including the ‘Car of the Year 2023’ gong at the Parkers New Car Awards.
The ZR-V’s cabin features a nine-inch touchscreen in the centre of the upper dash panel and the interior layout has been created to ‘support busy, active lifestyles’, says Honda.
It could be available to lease as soon as the Autumn of this year, so watch this space.
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