Honda HR-V Twin Goes Fully Hybrid in Japan

HR-V Gets a Butch Glow-up

Honda has revealed a partially updated version of the Honda ZR-V in Japan, the model sold in the US as the Honda HR-V. The refreshed SUV introduces a revised grade structure, expanded hybrid offerings, and new special-edition variants aimed at premium and outdoor-focused buyers. The updated ZR-V is scheduled to launch in Japan in late March 2026, with advance reservations already open in its home market.

The ZR-V lineup is now fully hybrid, with every variant powered by Honda’s e:HEV system. Higher trims receive a Honda CONNECT infotainment system with Google built-in services, including Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice control, and Google Play integration. Honda also expands Honda SENSING with a sudden acceleration suppression function designed to improve safety during low-speed driving situations.

Keeping Up with Demand Strong

The updated ZR-V lineup has three hybrid variants. The standard e:HEV Z serves as the technology-rich core model, featuring a Google-equipped 9-inch Honda CONNECT display, Bose 12-speaker premium audio system, 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, heated steering wheel, leather seating, multi-view camera system, and multiple drive modes including Sport, Econ, Normal, and Snow. Comfort features such as dual-zone climate control, rear ventilation, powered seats, and a hands-free power tailgate reinforce its near-premium positioning.

Building on this, the Black Style adds a darker visual identity with a honeycomb grille, black exterior trim pieces, dark wheels, and Ultrasuede-combined seating, along with a black roof liner. The new Cross Touring variant introduces a more rugged personality with exclusive bumpers, protective cladding, matte gray grille treatment, and a distinctive greige interior finished with orange stitching and matte black wheels. Together, the variants expand the ZR-V’s appeal from urban premium crossover to lifestyle-oriented compact SUV.

The Japanese update follows the recent refresh of the U.S.-market HR-V for the 2026 model year. Demand has remained strong despite supply challenges affecting Honda throughout 2025. SUVs and electrified models helped stabilize sales performance, highlighting growing consumer interest in hybrid-powered crossovers.

HR-V in the U.S.

The HR-V remains one of Honda’s most important entry SUVs in America. It offers accessible pricing while delivering practicality typically expected from larger crossovers. Flexible cargo space, comfort, and everyday usability continue to drive strong consumer interest in the HR-V, making it one of the brand’s more popular models despite supply concerns.

Whether these hybrid variants or lifestyle-focused trims, such as Cross Touring, will make their way to the U.S. remains an open question. Still, the updates from Japan give enthusiasts plenty of reason to be optimistic, and we are excited to see how Honda continues to evolve its compact SUV lineup.