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“Honda’s New SUV is “”Too Osha! New ZR-V to be released this fall compared to Toyota’s Corolla Cross

Despite their rivalry, the ZR-V and Corolla Cross have contrasting parts
　Honda has previewed its new ZR-V SUV for July 2022. The most likely candidate for the rival is Toyota’s compact SUV, the Corolla Cross.
　
　We will compare the two models, which are expected to be fiercely competitive, through their interior and exterior designs and currently disclosed specifications.

Honda’s new “”ZR-V”” to be released in the fall of 2022.

(Top) Honda’s new ZR-V SUV [scheduled for release in fall 2022] / (Bottom) Toyota’s Corolla Cross

　The new ZR-V has only just begun to be shown to the public in advance, and only limited interior and exterior photos and specifications have been revealed.

　However, the new HR-V (2023 model year), which is a sibling of the ZR-V with some design changes, has already gone on sale in North America, and details of its body size and interior/exterior design have also been disclosed.

　Let’s compare the new HR-V with the Corolla Cross, along with some information about the new HR-V.

　Let’s start with the car’s body size.

　Since official specifications for the new ZR-V have not yet been released, here are the body sizes for the North American version (HR-V): overall length 179.8 inches (approx. 4567 mm) x overall width 72.4 inches (approx. 1839 mm) x overall height 63.4 inches (approx. 1610 mm) to 63.8 inches (approx. 1620 mm), overall wheelbase of 104.5 inches (approx. 2654 mm).

　The body size of the Corolla Cross is 4490 mm (length) x 1825 mm (width) x 1620 mm (wheelbase) x 2640 mm (wheelbase), and although the ZR-V is slightly larger than the Corolla Cross, they are almost within the margin of error.

　Incidentally, Honda claims that the new ZR-V (HR-V) fills a new position between the compact SUV “”Vezel”” (overall length 4330 mm x overall width 1790 mm x 1590 mm) and the medium SUV “”CR-V”” (overall length 4605 mm x overall width 1855 mm x 1680 mm), which has been expanding in size. The new model is said to be in a new position.

　Let’s take a look at the exterior design from the front.

　The new ZR-V is characterized by a strong individuality in terms of the luxuriousness and power of the front grille. The combination of the horizontal headlights and the low, vertically separated front grille give it a unique design.

　In contrast, the Corolla Cross has a sleek design with a front mask common to the Corolla family, including the sedan, wagon (Touring), and hatchback (Sport), but with the added strength of an SUV.

　The body side of the ZR-V has a voluminous and sleek form, while the Corolla Cross has a straight line and a square cabin space that gives the impression of a spacious interior from the outside.

　In fact, the Corolla Cross has a larger interior and cargo space than the other Corolla series, and is characterized by its high level of practicality.

　As for the ZR-V, it appears to have been designed to combine a sleek form and roofline with interior space by setting the rear seat seating position lower.

　Thus, although ZR-V and Corolla Cross are rivals in the same category, they seem to have contrasting exterior designs.

Honda’s New SUV is “”Too Osha!”” New ZR-V to be released this fall compared to Toyota’s Corolla Cross

The ZR-V’s interior foreshadows the high quality of the ZR-V
　Let’s now compare the interiors of the new ZR-V and the Corolla Cross.

　The ZR-V Japanese version released in July 2022 shows only images around the instrument panel, but in North America, seats and other parts are also introduced. While the instrument panel has a simple shape, the photos also show the precision and high quality of the instrument panel.

　Honda explains that the horizontally based design gives the impression of spaciousness and enhances the sense of unity between the driver and the car, as well as a good view.

　The seats are large in size with a firm shape that suggests comfort, as seen in the North American-spec model. Stylish materials are also used for the seat fabric.

　The Corolla Cross has a functionality-oriented design that shares similarities with other Corolla series models, such as the instrument panel layout centered around a large 9-inch center monitor, sporty-shaped seats, and chic black interior colors.

　However, a unique feature not found in other Corolla series models is the optional “”panorama roof. Almost the entire surface of the roof is covered with glass, providing a high sense of freedom. There is also a sunshade that opens and closes electrically, so there are no problems even in the middle of summer when the weather is fine.

　In this way, the interior of the new ZR-V seems to have a high quality feel, in contrast to the Corolla Cross, which emphasizes functionality.

Honda’s new ZR-V SUV [scheduled for release in fall 2022].

　What about performance?

　The ZR-V has the same lineup as the new Civic, with two types of engines: the Sports e:HEV, which combines a 2-liter gasoline direct injection engine with a two-motor hybrid system, and a 1.5-liter turbo engine.

　With “”exhilarating”” as its keyword, the Civic appeals for high performance and a pleasant driving experience, and the ZR-V is expected to have similar performance.

　Both are available in front-wheel drive (FF) and four-wheel drive (4WD).

　The Corolla Cross will be available in two versions: a 1.8-liter gasoline engine version and a hybrid version. According to Toyota, 80% of Corolla Cross users choose the hybrid version.

　Perhaps because of this, 4WD (E-Four) is available only on the hybrid model, which is different from the ZR-V.

* * *

　The new ZR-V is scheduled to go on pre-order in September 2022, with its official launch scheduled for this fall; new information on performance and other aspects may be released after September.”

“Why is Honda closing “”Fitness””? Refreshing sports specs disappear after 2 years…! What are the features of its successor “”RS of Resurrection””?

Fourth-Generation Fit “”NESS”” Expresses a New Era of Sportiness
　Honda made an advance public showing on August 5 of the all-new Fit, which is scheduled to undergo minor changes in the fall of 2022. In addition to design improvements, the addition of the new “”RS”” grade has been attracting a lot of attention.
　
　On the other hand, it was revealed that the sporty “”NESS”” grade system, one of the five grade systems in the lineup at the time of the 2020 debut, will be quietly discontinued with this mychange.

The theme is “”Fitness! View 19 photos of Honda’s fourth-generation Fit NESS.

Interior of Honda’s fourth-generation Fit NESS with lime green accent color [released in February 2020 (before minor changes)].

　The Fit is a compact car from Honda, whose first generation model was introduced in 2001. The first generation model was a big hit right from its debut, supported by its practicality that combined a spacious minivan-like interior with sporty styling.

　The well-received concept has been carried over in successive generations of models, and the current Fit, the fourth generation, was introduced in February 2020.

　The fourth generation is characterized by the pursuit of “”emotional value,”” which cannot be expressed in numbers, and the embodiment of comfort that is close to the user, while maintaining the good qualities of the first generation.

　The newly developed two-motor hybrid “”e:HEV”” improves fuel economy and ride comfort.

　Another highlight of the model change was a new five-grade system.

　Honda explains that the new system is not based on equipment differences, as in the past, but rather on variations to suit the user’s lifestyle.

　The unique lineup includes the basic “”BASIC,”” the “”HOME,”” which offers enhanced quality with natural materials, the “”CROSSTAR,”” which has an exclusive SUV-style interior and exterior, and the “”LUXE,”” a luxury version with exclusive genuine leather seats and other features. The “”CROSSTAR”” model features an exclusive SUV-style interior and exterior.

* * * * * *

　The third-generation Fit had a sporty version, the “”RS,”” but the fifth model in the lineup, the “”NESS,”” is a new sporty version introduced for the fourth generation as a replacement for the “”RS.

　Honda describes it as “”a nimble and fashionable type of fitness sport.

　The fourth-generation Fit NESS targets “”people who want to be active every day. At the time of its announcement, Honda’s developers explained that they aimed to create a specification that is different from the conventional image of a sporty grade, such as black interior and aero parts.

　On the exterior, a fresh image of accent two-tone color with lime green accent color on the roof and other parts of the body is available. Together with the dynamically designed 16-inch aluminum wheels, the new model expresses a new sporty image.

　The interior also expresses a new sporty image through the use of hydrogen-repellent material for the seats and soft pad surface, and other interior and exterior features that express a sense of activity.

　The fourth-generation Fit, which is available in five different lineups, got off to a strong start with orders exceeding 31,000 units as of March 16, approximately one month after its launch.

　HOME accounted for 47% of the sales, or nearly half of the total. This was followed by BASIC with 19%, and CROSSTAR and LUXE with 14% each.

　The highly anticipated new sporty model NESS, however, accounted for only 6% of the total, the smallest percentage among the series.

* * * *

　The website of the new Fit, which was previewed on August 5, 2022, introduces the new RS as well as the four types with improved design: BASIC, HOME, LUXE, and CROSSTAR, but there is no NESS in the website.

　On the other hand, the new Fit RS, which was unveiled for the first time, has a black interior reminiscent of the previous model and a distinctly sporty look expressed through aero parts.

　Even on social networking sites immediately after its unveiling, many people, especially Honda fans, seemed to welcome the new Fit RS.

　The resurgence of the RS was a clear indication of the strong demand for the sportiness that users have been looking for.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

“Honda’s new off-road version of the CR-V’s big brother, the Pilot, to be available on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 3:00 p.m.

Honda Passport Trail Sport (for reference)
On August 9, Honda’s U.S. division announced the availability of the “”Trail Sport”” model of the Honda Pilot SUV for the 2023 model year.

The Trail Sport is a new series of off-road versions of Honda’s SUVs and pickup trucks for the U.S. market. The Passport was chosen as the first model in the series. The second Trail Sport model will be the Pilot.

The current Pilot is the third generation model and was first unveiled at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show. It is a midsize SUV designed exclusively for North America, with a body that is a size larger than that of the CR-V. Given that it has already been seven years since its debut and that Honda describes it as “”all new,”” the 2023 model is expected to be the next model.

In addition, Honda has released one teaser photo of the Pilot Trail Sport.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

“Canac Releases Installation Kit for New Honda Vezel with Large-Screen 9-Inch Commercial Navigation System2022/8/3 (Wed.) 21:30
Image after installation.

Image after installationInstallable sizeParts configurationHONDA VESEL
Canac Planning has released the “”TBX-H012″” installation set that enables installation of an after-market 9-inch car navigation system on the new Honda Vezel at dealers and car accessory stores nationwide.

The new Vezel has been transformed into a next-generation model. This product allows users to select and install a 9-inch car navigation system of their choice. The included panel has a grained matte finish to minimize reflection on the windshield. In addition, by using a commercially available steering wheel remote control adapter, steering wheel switches can also be used with some car AV systems (confirmation required).

The new product consists of a panel, bracket, sub-bracket, connector (24P), antenna conversion cord, etc. Applicable to VWZEL audio-less models (including models with the special package for navigation system installation) from April 2021 onward. The price is 26,400 yen.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)”

“Honda to Revive New Odyssey to Compete with Alphard; New Elysion for China to be Introduced in Japan in 2023

Alphard”” is being considered for introduction in Japan? Considering Introducing the New “”Elysion”” in Japan?
　Honda has terminated production of its high-end Odyssey minivan at the end of December 2021, following the closure of its Saitama Works Sayama plant. With Toyota dominating the popularity of the high-end minivan “”Alphard,”” there have been many requests for Honda to revive the model.
　
　The “”Elysion,”” a higher-end model of the Odyssey that continues to be produced overseas, may be introduced to Japan as the new Odyssey in 2023.

“”More luxurious than the Alphard! Introduction in Japan is imminent! View 53 interior and exterior photos of Honda’s top-of-the-line minivan, the Elysion.

Honda’s new Elysion luxury minivan, minor-changed in China in December 2021 [Chinese specifications].

　The Odyssey is a high-end model that occupies a higher position than the Freed and Step Wagon in Honda’s three-row minivan lineup.

　It is a well-established brand with a history of more than 25 years since the first model in 1994, and the current model, introduced in 2014, is the fifth generation.

　Although a full six years have passed since its debut, it was just refreshed in November 2020 with a fairly major minor change that redesigned the interior and exterior.

　In the following year of 2021, 21,148 units (average monthly sales of approximately 1762 units) were sold, and the sudden announcement of the end of production was met with lamentation from many Honda fans, as the car had been enjoying stable popularity.

　As of the end of July 2022, the Odyssey new car introduction page still remains on Honda’s official website.

　However, the page still says, “”*Some types and colors may not be available. Please contact the sales company for details.”” It seems that only vehicles produced during 2021 are being sold from stock.

　Of course, Honda is also taking measures to end Odyssey production.

　The Step Wagon, a medium-class minivan that will be fully remodeled in May 2022, will be offered in the “”Spada Premium Line,”” a high-end version with a chrome exterior and higher quality seat materials to accommodate Odyssey replacement users.

　However, according to Honda officials, there are many requests from users to revive the high-end minivan.

　Therefore, it appears that Honda is secretly considering the introduction of a high-end minivan once again.

　The popularity of the Toyota Alphard, a high-end minivan, is also said to be a driving force behind this.

The current Odyssey (Odyssey) is actually a high-end minivan.

　In fact, a model with almost the same specifications as the current Odyssey (minor-changed version) is still being produced at a local joint venture company in China, Guangqi Honda Automobile (Guangzhou, Guangdong Province).

　In addition, the Elysion, with more advanced interior and exterior specifications, is also produced at the joint venture Dongfeng Honda Automobile (Wuhan City, Hubei Province).

　The Elysion was once sold in Japan from 2004 to 2013 as a top-end minivan that ranked above the Odyssey, but with the introduction of the current Odyssey, it is no longer in production in Japan.

　The Chinese version of the Elysion, on the other hand, has just undergone a minor change in December 2021.

　With an overall length of 4951 mm x width of 1842 mm x height of 1711 mm and a wheelbase of 2900 mm, the 7-seat version has a 2-liter Atkinson cycle gasoline engine combined with a highly efficient and powerful 2-motor hybrid system as its powertrain.

　The interior layout follows the specifications of the current Odyssey, which underwent minor changes in 2020, and includes a 7-inch full LCD instrument panel, a large 10.1-inch center display, and gesture control power sliding doors.

　The Step Wagon also offers more luxurious seat materials than the Odyssey, and an electric double sunroof, which was not available in Japan.

　Now that a higher grade is available for the Step Wagon, it would be more impactful to launch the Elysion with increased luxury as a new model rather than reintroducing the Odyssey with the same specifications as before.

　At this point, it is unclear whether the right-hand-drive version will be produced in China and imported, or whether it will be produced again at Honda’s production facilities in Japan. In any case, it seems very likely that the new Elysion will be introduced in Japan.

　As for the naming, it is being renamed the Odyssey, which has been successful in Japan, and is being renamed the “”revival of Honda’s high-end minivan. We expect the new model to be introduced in 2023.”

“New Honda CR-V, Hybrid with Aggressive StylingTuesday, July 19, 2022 8:30 PM

Honda CR-V, new model (U.S. specifications)
On July 12, Honda’s U.S. division unveiled the new CR-V SUV.

The new model features a large, upright front grille, a long hood hood, and LED headlights. The powerful horizontal beltline emphasizes the overall length, which is approximately 70 mm longer than the previous model. In addition, the overall width and wheelbase have been extended by approximately 10 mm and 40 mm, respectively. The hybrid model has aggressive styling. The front grille is a mesh design, highlighted by gloss black accents.

The new CR-V uses a fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system. The engine is an Atkinson-cycle direct-injection 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline. The motor draws maximum torque of 34.2kgm, 2kgm stronger than the conventional model. The entire hybrid system, engine and motor combined, achieves 204hp of power. This is an improvement of 3hp over the previous model and, according to Honda, is the most powerful in the CR-V’s history.

The hybrid system offers increased refinement at highway speeds, and for the first time, the towing capacity, which is important for SUVs in the U.S. market, is up to 0.45 tons. Linear Shift Control is said to elevate the driving experience by pursuing an engine rev feel linked to vehicle speed when the throttle is fully open. The new hybrid system also improves acceleration performance in the speed range from approximately 140 km/h and up.”