Honda ZR-V Australia prices announced - Mazda CX-30 rival price equals RM 121k onwards

Honda Australia has announced prices for its forthcoming 2023 Honda ZR-V which will take its place between the Honda HR-V and next-generation Honda CR-V.

The ZR-V will close the gap between HR-V and CR-V models, in much the same way the Mazda CX-30 has become the middle child between the B-Segment CX-3 and larger CX-5.

Also read: Honda ZR-V hybrid confirmed, to bridge gap between HR-V and CR-V in Europe

Here's how the HR-V, ZR-V and CR-V measure up:

Prices start from AUD 40,200 (RM 121k) for the base model VTi LX and rise to AUD 54,900 (RM 165k) for the e:HEV LX variant. There are 4 variants in total for Australia.

In terms of pricing, the Australian top-spec Honda HR-V at AUD 47k, has a price overlap with the 2 lower rung models of the ZR-V (VTI LX and VTi-L) at AUD 40.2k and AUD 43.2k respectively.

The 2023 ZR-V is based on the same platform as the Honda Civic (FE) and thus is powered by the 1.5-litre VTEC turbocharged four-cylinder in the first 3 petrol variants and the 2.0-litre e:HEV i-MMD two motor full-hybrid in the range-topping LX variant.

Also read:Replacing the CR-V in Japan, hybrid Honda ZR-V preferred over turbo

Power numbers could mirror the Civic FE as well, with 182 PS / 240 Nm for the 1.5-litre VTEC turbo and 184 PS / 315 Nm in the 2.0-litre e:HEV.

While specific features for the Australian ZR-V are not yet confirmed, overseas models indicate that the ZR-V will likely be offered with the full array of Honda Sensing ADAS features in the higher rung variants. In addition, Honda Australia also has not announced if AWD versions of the ZR-V will be offered in Australia as well.

Closer to home, it is yet to be known if Honda Malaysia plans to introduce the ZR-V in Malaysia. 

With the four models planned for launch in 2023 already spoken for, it remains to be seen if the ZR-V could make an entrance in 2024. 

Also read: Honda Malaysia to launch 4 new 2023 models - WR-V, CR-V, Civic Type-R FL5, and City facelift to raise market share to 12.3 percent

The other question is if there's a substantial price gap for the ZR-V to slot into.

However, it is likely that the CR-V will move up the price spectrum when the all-new generation is introduced. This could open up a gap above RM 140k price bracket which currently buys you the range-topping HR-V 1.5 e:HEV RS.