According to Antonio Navia, General Manager Honda Store Newmarket, The Honda ZR-V e:HEV is a versatile and efficient urban SUV that combines practicality with a touch of luxury. But he doesn’t stop there. He says that this clever hybrid not only embodies the sporty and luxurious vision of Honda’s founder, Soichiro Honda, but also delivers on performance and functionality, making it a compelling choice for corporate fleets. Best we found out.
The ZR-V e:HEV presents a special blend of style and substance, starting with its captivating exterior design. From the sculpted bonnet to the eye-catching piano-black grille and sleek LED headlights, the ZR-V exudes confidence and sophistication – traits that reflect well in a corporate setting.
If practicality is key for any company vehicle, then the ZR-V delivers on that front as well. With a size that strikes the right balance between spaciousness and manoeuvrability, this midsize SUV offers ample interior room without overwhelming parking spaces or garages, making it a practical choice for employees who need space without compromising on agility.
Driving efficiency takes centre stage with the ZR-V’s advanced e:HEV twin motor system. Powered by a 2L engine acting as both an engine and a generator, and with an electric motor driving the wheels, the ZR-V achieves an impressive balance of power and fuel economy.
All up, the ZR-V offers 135kW of power and 315Nm of torque, and this, coupled with an eCVT transmission, ensures a smooth and responsive drive while maintaining fuel efficiency at 5.5l/100km and emitting only 126g of carbon per km.
Inside the cabin, the ZR-V continues to impress with its luxurious and practical features. The supportive leather-appointed seats, heated for front occupants, provide comfort during long commutes or business trips. The spacious interior, complemented by clever storage solutions, ensures that employees have a productive and comfortable environment while on the road.
Technology is seamlessly integrated into the ZR-V, catering to the needs of modern corporate drivers. The infotainment system offers Apple/Android compatibility, a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system, and Garmin navigation, providing convenience and connectivity on the go. The combination of digital and analog gauges in the instrument cluster offers real-time insights into efficiency and driving performance, allowing drivers to stay informed and focused.
With safety being a top priority for any company vehicle, the ZR-V ticks all the boxes.
With its comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of advanced driving and safety aids, from blind-spot monitoring to adaptive cruise control, it provides reassurance and peace of mind when navigating busy roads and highways.
During my drive with the ZR-V e:HEV, I navigated both the congested streets of rush-hour Auckland followed by longer stints to neighbouring towns such as Pukekohe and Miranda, allowing the vibrant SUV to display both its efficiency and performance credentials, and to be straight it did well across the board. The clever powertrain seamlessly switches between ICE and EV (although the engine sparking up at the lights took a little getting used to) and its handling in the tighter corners around the Hunua ranges, made for a thrilling ride.
With the ZR-V itself performing admirably, the next question would be how to get it on my driveway, and for that, Antonio had several options.
He says that owning versus leasing a vehicle is something they are constantly asked about, adding that there are pros and cons for either option and it will often depend on your company’s specific requirements, however the tried and true phrase that applies here is “If cash is king, then cashflow is queen.”
Over a standard finance period on average, lease repayments have noticeably less impact on a business’s cash flow. Plus you are able to accurately forecast vehicle expenditure as all costs are built into one easy monthly payment.
Honda Store Newmarket has truly flexible leasing solutions designed to suit, with flexible terms and the option for a fully maintained lease, Antonio says they are finding more and more customers enjoying the increased freedom of their lease options.
“For example, our Fully Maintained Lease is very popular with our corporate clients and those who are looking for the easiest solution to mobility,” says Antonio. “This lease has all maintenance costs included under one simple monthly payment. We also provide options to incorporate GPS tracking and fleet management if needed all from $729.61 +GST for a 45 month and 45,000 kilometre maintained package.”
Antonio says that whichever Honda lease options you choose, once your term is over you can return the vehicle, lease a new Honda or purchase the existing Honda you have been leasing.
And then there’s Honda Store Newmarket’s ‘car finance’ offers. Essentially, they offer on-site finance, same day approval and flexible terms, with finance offers that include zero deposit and attractive interest rates. Plus with Honda Store Newmarket, every step of the process is handled under one roof.
Antonio says that as a business, there are a number of advantages to leasing or financing your company fleet. It allows you to protect the capital in your business, leaving it free to invest into other assets, it encourages vehicle expenses to be part of cashflow compared to capital expenditure, and in most cases comes with a number of taxation benefits.
The Honda ZR-V e:HEV stands out as a compelling option for companies seeking an efficient, stylish, and practical vehicle for their fleet. Head to Honda Store Newmarket at 455 Broadway Newmarket Auckland, and find out for yourself why leasing or financing a new Honda ZR-V is the ideal solution for your business. The friendly team at the store is always ready to answer your questions and known for its 5-Star hospitality. It’s truly worth visiting Antonio and the Team to experience exceptional service firsthand and take the car for a test drive to see the difference for yourself!
