Honda ZR-V named Car of the Year
The mainstream mid-size SUV segment in Australia is highly competitive, making it difficult for buyers to choose the best option.
The 2026 CarsGuide Car of the Year Awards aimed to simplify this decision by shortlisting the top vehicles in the segment.
Honda ZR-V Wins Car of the Year Award
The Honda ZR-V was one of the top contenders, alongside the Toyota RAV4 and the Zeekr 7X.
The ZR-V stood out for its ideal size, offering a compact yet spacious interior, and its hybrid powertrain was praised for its fuel efficiency and performance.
According to the filing, the judging panel was impressed with the ZR-V’s driving experience, which exceeded expectations for the segment.
The ZR-V’s build quality was also commended, with the panel noting that it communicates Honda’s commitment to quality well, and its versatile interior space makes it an attractive option for family buyers.
Additionally, the ZR-V’s combustion engine and hybrid powertrain provide a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it an all-rounder in the segment.
Key Features of the Honda ZR-V
CarsGuide Contributing Journalist Andrew Chesterton noted that the ZR-V “continues Honda’s winning run of models lately” with its solid build quality and enjoyable driving experience.
However, they also acknowledged that the hybrid powertrain’s limited availability and higher starting price were notable drawbacks.
The Toyota RAV4, although an older model, was also a strong contender due to its well-deserved reputation for build quality, popular hybrid powertrain, and spacious interior.
CarsGuide Contributing Journalist Emily Agar described the RAV4 as “a well-priced and handsome package” for families, with a Car of the Year award to its name.
Despite its strengths, the RAV4’s interior design was seen as aging, and its hybrid powertrain was no longer the most innovative in the market.
The RAV4’s popularity and affordability, however, make it a compelling option for families, and its spacious interior and no-nonsense design make it a practical choice.
Zeekr 7X: A New Contender
The Zeekr 7X, a fully electric SUV from a Chinese newcomer brand, impressed the panel with its ambitious design, excellent value, and cutting-edge features.
Deputy Editor James Cleary noted that the 7X offers “so much standard equipment for the money, stunning acceleration, top-shelf safety, and a solid ownership package.”
The 7X’s spacious and family-friendly interior, generous boot, and ultra-fast charging capabilities made it an attractive option.
However, the vehicle’s complicated software functions and lack of a spare tire were notable drawbacks.
The 7X’s 800-volt architecture and healthy battery capacities support long driving ranges and ultra-fast charging, making it a compelling option for those looking for an electric SUV.
Slipping in just under the $60,000 mark, the Zeekr 7X has arrived in Australia with quite some fanfare as one of the most compelling new cars from a Chinese newcomer brand.
The Zeekr 7X’s arrival in Australia has brought a new level of competition to the mid-size SUV segment, with its premium features and affordable price point making it a turning point in the market.
