The Honda CR-V and ZR-V mid-size SUVs will probably be facelifted and given a brand new hybrid system – and maybe their first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain – plus Google synthetic intelligence in early 2026.
Honda Australia shared the information at a current media occasion the place it introduced a variety of product information, together with the mannequin replace – internally recognized an MMC or ‘Minor Mannequin Change’ – for the 2 standard fashions, which accounted for two-thirds of its gross sales within the first half of 2025.
Set to reach round March/April 2026, the facelift for the CR-V and ZR-V would be the first main change for each mannequin because the present technology of every mannequin was launched in Australia in 2023.
The five-seat and seven-seat CR-V is the model’s top-seller, forward of the HR-V small SUV, whereas the ZR-V is its third hottest mannequin.
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Whereas gentle beauty adjustments are anticipated, probably the most vital adjustments will probably be beneath the pores and skin, with Honda Australia trying to develop its hybrid providing.
Within the present CR-V and ZR-V, a hybrid powertrain is obtainable solely within the top-spec variants – the ZR-V e:HEV LX (priced from $54,900 plus on-road prices) and the CR-V e:HEV RS ($59,900 plus on-roads).
The hybrid CR-V and ZR-V are solely obtainable in front-wheel drive kind, however broader availability of hybrid energy will permit each mid-size SUVs to raised compete with the top-selling Toyota RAV4 – Australia’s favorite SUV.
“(The replace) will see us introduce a brand new all-wheel drive hybrid powertrain to the lineup,” stated Honda Australia managing director Rob Thorp.
“We now have an all-wheel drive ICE (inner combustion-engined) mannequin, which sells fairly strongly in the intervening time, (so) changing to a hybrid powertrain we expect is the place the market goes.”
The truth is, Honda expects hybrid autos to account for round 90 per cent of its complete gross sales – in comparison with 53 per cent presently – by mid-2026.
Whereas he didn’t affirm particular particulars, Mr Thorp additionally stated a PHEV model of the CR-V – presently provided within the UK – can also be being checked out, however it might arrive after the early-2026 replace.
“There will probably be a collection of different security and mannequin enhancements as effectively,” the Honda boss added.
The 2026 CR-V and ZR-V will even deliver the second-generation Google built-in system, which is already provided within the Civic hatchback and the Accord flagship sedan.
The present model consists of the power to unlock, begin and drive a automobile with out a bodily key – amongst many different options – with homeowners able to accessing these controls by way of the Honda Join smartphone software.
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