Unboxing the New Honda 0 Saloon at CES2025

exploring honda’s bold vision: the zero saloon revealed

Standing under the brilliant lights of CES 2025, Honda’s latest creation, the Zero Saloon, shimmers like a promise of a world that’s as sleek and progressive as it is grounded in thoughtful function. From the moment I laid eyes on it, I knew this wasn’t simply another addition to the overcrowded EV market—it was a statement. Honda is drawing a definitive line in the sand with its Zero Saloon, revealing its unparalleled ambition to reshape the EV landscape by merging artistry, space efficiency, and cutting-edge technology into one striking package. But what truly sets this model apart is how it personifies Honda’s evolving identity in a way that feels as bold as it is inevitable.

The Zero Saloon might just be the flagship Honda has been waiting for, crafted meticulously to convey its unique vision for the future of personal transportation. One of the most gripping aspects of this car is its unapologetically minimalist profile: razor-straight body panels that run along the sides without a hint of contouring inward, a deliberate move to maximize interior space. This design language is a rebellion against conventional aesthetics, nodding subtly to retro influences without slipping into nostalgia. Paired with an extremely low and wide stance, the Zero Saloon gives the impression of agility and lightness without sacrificing its inherent sense of purpose. It’s almost as if Honda wanted drivers to feel like they were stepping into the future—but one that still maintains a connection to the familiar.

As I approached the car, another design choice became apparent: the absence of door handles. Forget pulling levers; the Zero Saloon greets you—literally. Using advanced facial recognition software seamlessly integrated with its LiDAR sensors, this car identifies you, unlocks, and swings open its motorized door in a single intuitive motion. Honda calls this “intelligent hospitality,” and it truly feels like the first brushstroke in a painting of a smarter, more streamlined automotive experience. Let’s face it, folks—doorknobs are so 20th century!

And then there’s the pièce de résistance: the rear of the saloon. Let me just say, the tail light arrangement on this car is nothing short of futuristic art. As you switch it on, an intricate startup sequence illuminates each strip of the rear lighting assembly individually. It feels like you’re watching a symphony of light unfold in the dark. Honda didn’t just give us tail lights; they handed us a glimpse into their mindset, blending aesthetics with practicality in a way that feels emblematic of their new era. The lights don’t merely exist for show—each strip operates independently, providing dynamic signals that ensure other vehicles and pedestrians take notice. To top it off, the sequence ends with a glowing Honda badge, unmistakably asserting the brand’s pride in its vision.

Walking around to the roof, I noticed another feature that deserves applause: the massive, uninterrupted glass panel stretching across the top of the car. This isn’t just some aesthetic gimmick; it transforms the cabin into an airy sanctuary drenched in light. By day, natural sunlight floods your journey, and by night, you’ll feel like a stargazer as the night sky reveals itself above. In this way, Honda isn’t just redefining space but also reimagining how we connect with our environment during every trip.

Oh, and let’s talk about the truly innovative feel inside this vehicle. The interior has been lowered to an astonishingly flat profile, making it accessible for anyone. Even in the rear seats, legroom feels more generous than most luxury sedans I’ve encountered. It’s one of those rare moments when you find yourself thinking, *Is this a car, or am I sitting in someone’s futuristic living room?* Every inch of the saloon’s design screams intentionality, and Honda’s decision to prioritize passenger comfort without jeopardizing its low-slung sporty profile is both daring and inspired.

But here’s where things start getting even smarter: the saloon is equipped to handle level three autonomous driving right out of the box. Sporting a steering yolk instead of a conventional wheel, the Zero Saloon isn’t just prepared for the self-driving future—it’s making space for it. This design innovation creates a nearly unobstructed view of the road ahead, reinforcing the futuristic vibe throughout the vehicle. By leveraging a fusion of LiDAR, radar, and a sophisticated onboard AI suite, this car has eyes not just for the road, but for pedestrians, animals, and even stray objects. Everything about the Zero Saloon feels purpose-built to anticipate what’s ahead of it, even before you do.

In essence, the Honda Zero Saloon is a bold declaration—a call to arms for other automakers to think not just about designing electric vehicles, but about transforming life inside them. Honda isn’t content with meeting expectations; it wants to exceed them, and if CES 2025 is anything to go by, it’s driving forward with no intention of looking back. While no car is perfect, the Zero Saloon comes dangerously close to embodying that seamless mix of form and function that could forever redefine the way we think about EVs.

futuristic design elements: balancing retro and innovation

When you first lay eyes on the Honda Zero Saloon, its futuristic design isn’t just striking—it’s a bold nod to both the past and the future. Honda has managed to balance two seemingly opposing forces: the clean, contemporary vibes you’d expect from an EV flagship and subtle retro flourishes that pay tribute to bygone automotive eras. This interplay of elements creates a vehicle that feels distinctly new, yet somehow familiar, tapping into a deep sense of nostalgia while charting a course firmly ahead. Let’s dig into what makes this design a game changer.

One of the most riveting aspects of the Zero Saloon’s design is its unapologetic simplicity. Forget swoopy lines and over-designed embellishments—the Saloon opts for razor-straight bodywork that dares you to embrace minimalism. Its flat, vertical panels are borderline audacious, discarding the inward curves most modern cars use to suggest dynamism. Why? Because Honda understands that space is luxury. These straight lines liberate valuable interior room, making a vehicle that looks compact and aerodynamic on the outside feel astonishingly open and spacious within.

The side glass panels continue this philosophy, emphasizing verticality and maximized visibility. For drivers who’ve grown tired of claustrophobic cabins, this car offers a literal window to the world around you. It’s a move that shatters convention and defies expectation, much like the EV revolution itself. If this isn’t the future of automotive design, then what is?

Step around to the rear of the car, and things get even more exciting. The tail light array isn’t just functional—it’s a spectacle. Each strip of light operates independently, and during activation sequences, they light up in a choreographed display that feels almost theatrical. It’s clear Honda wanted these lights to be more than signals; they’re a design statement, as if to say, “We’re Honda, and we mean business.” The effect is mesmerizing—like a retro-futuristic gadget from a science fiction movie, but brought to life. The glowing Honda badge capping off the sequence is the chef’s kiss—subtle, tasteful, and synonymous with one of the most trusted brands in mobility.

Now about those doors. First off, they don’t have handles. I mean, who needs them when your car can recognize your face, unlock itself, and gently swing its doors open for you? It isn’t just about convenience; it feels downright magical. It’s as if Honda wanted to eliminate every unnecessary touchpoint in favor of creating an unbroken sense of flow. On a practical level, this design element underscores the company’s commitment to automation and seamless integration. On an emotional level, well, it’s just plain cool. Forget key-fobs—this car makes you feel like it knows you, almost like it’s an extension of your digital identity.

The retro-modern design ethos carries into the smaller details as well. Up front, the motorized headlight covers recall a time when pop-up headlights were the pinnacle of flair and sophistication. Yet, Honda’s interpretation is pure 2025—a sleeker, more elegant solution that combines nostalgia with modern sensibility. As the headlight covers lift when you approach, there’s a cinematic quality to the motion. It’s like the car is winking at you—and honestly, who wouldn’t want to wink back?

From the top, the uninterrupted glass roof dominates the visuals. One continuous panel stretches effortlessly from front to rear, breaking the boundary between interior and exterior. It functions as more than just a design gimmick; it’s about enhancing the human connection to the skies above. Whether you’re taking in a sunrise commute or stargazing on a remote camping adventure, this glass canopy transforms the drive into an experience. For a fleeting moment, the line between machine and nature blurs, and you’re left with something unexpectedly profound: a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can still go.

Even the wheels feel like an integral part of this futuristic aesthetic. Flat, covered, and undeniably aerodynamic, they tell the story of a car that prioritizes efficiency without compromising on style. They’re a visual callback to the high-tech vision of efficiency-focused EVs but feel far less utilitarian than similar designs from rival brands. Honda has layered them with just enough flair to make you nod in appreciation without rolling your eyes at their functionality.

What Honda has done with the Zero Saloon is remarkable. In an industry often dominated by trends that expire faster than they’re born, this car feels timeless. By blending futuristic ambitions with subtle retro echoes, it creates a visual identity that’s both innovative and warm—like a sleek, modern apartment furnished with just the right amount of vintage charm. The Zero Saloon doesn’t just look forward; it respects the journey that got us here, balancing bold strides with reflective pauses. It’s a masterpiece of contrasts, a car that says, “The future is here. Let’s drive into it—together.”

If you want to dive into the finer details or explore Honda’s evolution as a design-forward automaker, check out the official CES 2025 showcase here. Trust me, you’ll want to take a closer look.

spacious interiors: reimagining comfort and functionality

Stepping into the Zero Saloon feels less like entering a car and more like walking into an intimate, futuristic lounge crafted for the road. It’s extraordinary. Honda didn’t just design a cabin—they created an environment, a breathing space that embraces you, pampers you, and invites you to rethink what comfort in an automobile can be. Every detail, from the ground up, has been engineered not just for ease, but for an emotional experience. Let’s peel back the layers on why the Zero Saloon’s interior has broken the mold and set new benchmarks for spaciousness and functionality.

First impressions? *Expansive*. And I don’t use that word lightly. Honda has redefined interior ergonomics with a completely flat floor—a feat of engineering made possible by their new battery placement system. This subtle change eliminates the dreaded center hump you find in most cars, making getting in and out or simply stretching out your legs an absolute breeze. I’m 6 feet tall, and even with my seat pushed way back to my preferred driving position, there was still ample knee room for rear passengers. It’s the kind of spacious design choice that prompts an eyebrow raise and an unconscious nod of appreciation. “Finally,” you whisper to yourself, “They’ve got it right.”

And that, of course, is just the beginning. Above, an expansive glass roof stretches like a celestial panorama, welcoming in a flood of natural light. On paper, you might dismiss this as just another panoramic roof, but in-person, it feels transformative. Whether it’s the golden hues of sunrise washing over the cabin or the twinkling starlight during a nighttime drive, this singular design choice makes every commute feel like a cinematic experience. For those worried about heat or UV exposure, don’t; the glass comes equipped with dynamic tinting that adjusts based on light intensity, ensuring you stay cool while soaking in those dreamy views. A small touch, but it shows how deeply Honda has thought about user comfort.

But let’s talk seating. Calling these seats “comfortable” feels almost insulting. They cradle you, encase you—not with excessive cushioning like a gaudy recliner, but with a minimalist elegance that prioritizes support where you need it most. The four-seat configuration in the Zero Saloon is almost lounge-like, particularly in the rear. Wide and accommodating, the rear seats envelop passengers with generous padding and impeccable stitching that screams sophistication. The wraparound design feels luxurious, almost as though the cabin’s contours are giving you a gentle hug. It’s a vibe, and trust me when I say—you *don’t* want to get out.

The Zero Saloon isn’t just spacious—it’s personalized. Sensors integrated into the vehicle collect data on your preferred seating position, climate control settings, and even your favorite ambient lighting mood. Gone are the days of fiddling with controls; as soon as you step into the car, it adjusts itself to *you*. Your seat slides into position, the climate adjusts to your tastes, and your individualized settings spring to life—all of it happening seamlessly, as though this car can *sense* you on an almost human level.

And oh, the lighting. The cabin is wrapped in dynamic, customizable ambient lighting that rivals the best luxury lounges. A soft glow rings the interior, tracing the perimeter of the glass, the floor, and even the armrests. It’s not just decorative—it’s immersive. Paired with Honda’s smart driving modes, this lighting can morph to suit your journey. Select the “Awaken” mode, and a bright, optimistic white glows through the cabin to invigorate you during morning drives. Tap “Unwind,” and a warm, soothing amber takes over, melting away the stress of the day. But if you’re feeling fancy, hit “Exhilarate” and bam—vibrant, pulse-matching hues drop in to get your adrenaline pumping. It’s like Honda bottled up an entire light show and placed it at your disposal.

The innovations don’t stop with the aesthetics, either. As part of Honda’s sustainability push, much of the cabin material is crafted from recycled or eco-friendly components. The elegantly designed carpets, for example, sport an abstract, almost avant-garde texture that elevates the overall vibe while being sustainable. The eco-conscious fabrics don’t compromise durability and feel pleasing to the touch, sending a clear message: luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.

Even the smallest details have been carefully considered. Integrated into the rear doors are hidden storage compartments that double as folding tables—perfect for those spur-of-the-moment picnic plans or tailgating afternoons. What initially seems like a clever gimmick turns out to be brilliantly functional. Need a spot for your coffee cup? A safe perch for your laptop while charging on the built-in wireless charging pads? Check. The Saloon has you covered with so much versatility, you’d think you were sitting in a first-class lounge aboard an airplane.

And just when you think Honda has shown all its cards, there’s the sound system. Each seat in the Zero Saloon is equipped with embedded speakers for a fully immersive experience. Whether you’re zoning out to a podcast or cranking up a road-trip playlist, the audio envelopes every passenger evenly, creating crystal-clear sound without the distortion you’d get in lesser systems. For those who enjoy moments of peace, there’s even a “Serene” parking mode that eliminates background noise and introduces subtle white-noise effects through these speakers—perfect for mid-day meditations or just clearing your mind.

The interior of the Honda Zero Saloon isn’t just about space or materials—it’s about creating a destination, a haven that evolves with you. This is what truly separates Honda’s vision from its peers. Other automakers might boast about legroom or premium leather, but Honda wants to transform how we *feel* inside their cars. It’s an effort I’ll never forget, and stepping out of the Saloon feels almost bittersweet—like leaving a cozy cocoon you didn’t quite realize you needed.

For more on the ingenious details behind Honda’s innovative interiors, click here and prepare to have your mind blown.

cutting-edge technology: self-driving, lighting, and modes

The Honda Zero Saloon isn’t just another electric vehicle; it’s a technological marvel that stitches together the most cutting-edge innovations into an ensemble that feels, well, alive. Everywhere I looked, there was some new tech element silently working behind the scenes to make my experience just a little more seamless, a little more human-centered. It’s as if Honda envisioned the Zero Saloon as a bridge between mechanical engineering and science fiction—a nod to the unfathomable tech-powered future while ensuring the driver remains at its heart. And, honestly, I’m here for every byte of it. Let’s dive into what makes this car tick on a deeper level.

Let’s start with what I think most of us secretly dream about: self-driving. Unlike the pie-in-the-sky promises from some in the industry, Honda’s implementation of Level 3 autonomous driving isn’t just a hypothetical—it’s tangible, functional, and remarkably intuitive. This is “eyes off the road” territory, a progression beyond merely helping you parallel park or maintain lane discipline. The Zero Saloon’s LiDAR sensors, integrated so gracefully into the design that you almost forget they’re there, are the unsung heroes of this system. Working alongside radar, ultrasonic sensors, and a sophisticated neural network for real-time processing, the car can essentially “see” the world around it better than most humans can.

Picture this: you’re stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic on a highway after a long day. With the Zero Saloon, you don’t have to grip the steering wheel in frustration while inching forward for miles on end. Instead, this car treats you to its Level 3 autonomy, taking full control in monotonous conditions while allowing you to sit back, relax, and safely take your eyes off the road. Suddenly, rush hour doesn’t seem so soul-destroying anymore.

What really impressed me, though, was Honda’s subtle way of blending automation with human-centric touches. For instance, as you approach the car, the built-in facial recognition system identifies you (and only you), unlocking the doors and even adjusting seating and climate settings based on your preset preferences. Imagine leaving a crammed shopping mall during the holidays, arms full of bags, and your car just “knows” it’s you, popping its doors open without you so much as reaching for a key or phone. It’s one of those features you never realized you needed—until you have it.

And speaking of those motorized doors: they’re almost poetic in motion. There’s something captivating about how they silently swing open and align the steering yolk to welcome you inside. Have you ever climbed into a car and fumbled awkwardly with the steering wheel, bumping into it as you squeeze into your seat? Yeah, Honda has eradicated that minor indignity by designing the steering yolk to rotate out of the way as the door opens. It’s all part of their overarching commitment to melding utility with user delight.

Let’s talk about the interior’s most dynamic feature—mood-driven ambient lighting. This isn’t just a pretty gimmick to elevate the aesthetics; it’s an integral part of how the Zero Saloon interacts with its passengers. Honda has designed modes that adapt your environment to match your vibe. Are you feeling groggy during a dreary morning commute? Switch to “Awaken,” and the cabin is flooded with brighter tones, crisp air, and invigorating audio cues. Had a long day at work and just need to exhale? Tap into “Unwind,” which bathes the interior in soft amber lighting while subtly adjusting sound frequencies to soothe your senses.

What’s fascinating is how much nuance Honda has baked into this lighting system. It’s not just “on” or “off”—it’s dynamic, contextually reactive, and deeply customizable. For instance, in “Exhilarate” mode, designed for a more spirited drive or twisty road adventure, the lighting shifts to vibrant, pulsing shades that mirror the energy of the moment. Think rich, fiery greens and reds that change intensity as you accelerate or decelerate—it’s like the car is as excited as you are. Even the illuminated accents embedded in the armrests and floor seem to come alive, syncing effortlessly with other visual and sensory cues throughout the cabin.

For those moments when you’re stationary, maybe waiting in a parking lot or taking a phone call, there’s “Serene” mode. This shifts gears entirely, dimming the cabin lighting and even gently vibrating your seat for a micro-massage effect. It’s complemented by white-noise audio engineered to help you find your zen. Want to take it even further? There’s a “Meditation” mode that projects cosmic visuals onto the passenger display and plays a soundtrack of soft, ethereal tones, aimed at reminding you of your place in the vastness of the universe. Is it over the top? Maybe. But does it work? Absolutely. Life’s little stresses seem laughably small when viewed through the lens of a dashboard-turned-solar-system.

If you’re as much about features as you are about the driving experience, take note: Honda’s lighting system isn’t just about aesthetics. It integrates with the car’s intelligent driving dynamics to subtly communicate things like speed, braking force, or proximity to obstacles. For example, if an object appears unexpectedly close to the car in traffic, a subtle ripple in the ambient lights near the windows might occur. It’s discreet and intuitive—like the car whispering, “Hey, heads-up!” without the aggression of an audible alert.

Moving back to the tech narrative, let’s address the heart of the driving experience: the steering yolk. I was skeptical at first. For decades, the traditional steering wheel has been synonymous with driving; could this joystick-like alternative really be as functional? Turns out, it can. The design doesn’t just embrace the futuristic self-driving ethos—it amplifies it. By offering greater forward visibility and reduced cabin clutter, the yolk reorients drivers to what matters most: their connection with the road (or lack thereof, if you’re letting the AI do its thing). When in self-driving mode, it tucks gracefully into an unobtrusive position, freeing up more space for stretching or working on your laptop in traffic jams.

Of course, none of this tech would feel complete without powerful hardware under the hood. Honda’s AI backbone runs on a suite of advanced sensors, including, as I mentioned, LiDAR, but also high-definition cameras and long-range radar. It scans the road continuously, creating a 360-degree digital map of its surroundings in real time. This integration isn’t just useful for self-driving; it also powers low-speed maneuvering, parking assistance, and even edge-case scenarios like spotting animals darting onto the road at night.

Here’s another gem: motorized headlight covers. They may sound like a novelty, but they perform a functional role of protecting the lighting elements when not in use. When you unlock the car, the covers sweep up in an almost theatrical motion, and at that moment, you know you’re in for a treat. These aren’t just any headlights, either—Honda’s adaptive beam technology adjusts intensity and focus dynamically, ensuring you get perfect illumination without blinding other drivers. During my demo at the CES, I found myself oddly charmed by the way the entire lighting system felt alive. These kinds of details are what make the Zero Saloon so exciting—it’s more than a car; it’s a companion that seems aware of its surroundings.

Honda hasn’t just built a vehicle—they’ve composed an experience. Between futuristic self-driving capabilities, mood-driven interiors, and sci-fi-inspired lighting, the Zero Saloon is setting new standards for how technology integrates into our daily lives. Sure, other EVs have bells and whistles, but Honda’s offering feels purposeful, with every feature designed to enhance your time on the road. It’s not just about getting from point A to point B anymore—it’s about what happens during the journey.

Curious to see how these features play out in real life? Visit the official Zero Saloon product page here to explore Honda’s boldest EV yet and discover why the future has never looked—or felt—so good.

the zero saloon vs. zero SUV: key differences and highlights

When it comes to comparing the Honda Zero Saloon and the Zero SUV, we’re essentially looking at two vehicles that encapsulate Honda’s reimagined identity while catering to two distinct lifestyles. It’s like looking at siblings—sharing the same DNA but each with their own personality and charm. Both vehicles are electric marvels, brimming with futuristic technology and design elements that are ready to turn heads, but they diverge where it matters most: form, function, and the vibe they offer drivers and passengers. Let’s unpack the key differences and highlights between these two standout models.

First up, the Zero Saloon. This is Honda’s flagship for a reason. The design philosophy here screams minimalist futurism, with a low-slung, sleek profile that makes it appear light and agile, even when it’s parked. The straight-wall design of the Saloon, with its vertical glass panels and razor-sharp body lines, doesn’t merely look chic—it maximizes interior space. Unlike traditional sedan profiles that favor curves and slopes, the Saloon’s geometric approach feels bold and intentional. This is the kind of car that announces itself without screaming for attention, effortlessly balancing retro cues with forward-thinking innovation.

On the other hand, the Zero SUV is all about versatility and commanding presence. While it retains the straight-line design language seen on the Saloon, the SUV interprets it with a beefier, more rugged build. It’s taller, broader, and gives off an aura of capability that speaks to the demands of SUV buyers. You’ll notice the slightly boxier rear and higher ground clearance, designed to hold up to the rigors of modern family life, road trips, and whatever adventure you might throw its way. Where the Saloon feels slick and urbane, the SUV feels ready to leave the pavement behind and explore new terrains.

Another notable difference lies in the lighting design. The Saloon’s tail lights are nothing short of an art installation, with their dramatic choreography and retro-futuristic vibe. Turn those signals on, and you’ll feel like you’re piloting something out of a sci-fi blockbuster. While the SUV carries over much of the same lighting language, its approach feels a touch more pragmatic. The lights are still beautifully executed—because, let’s face it, Honda doesn’t skimp on aesthetics these days—but they lean more on functionality, emphasizing visibility and durability rather than sheer spectacle. Think of the Saloon as the edgy artist in a tailored suit, while the SUV is the adventurous athlete in a chic but practical jacket.

Step inside, and the differences become even more apparent. The Saloon is undoubtedly geared toward the luxurious minimalist. Its cabin feels almost like a mobile lounge, thanks to the lowered, completely flat floor and its impressive use of light and space. Occupants are treated to wraparound seating that feels indulgent even in the rear, with seamless ambient lighting and tech touches that make long drives feel anything but routine. The two-seat passenger display, extending elegantly across the entire dashboard, reinforces that this car is designed to pamper and impress.

The SUV, meanwhile, shifts its focus to practicality and adaptability. It offers similar flat floor functionality, but it also comes with added utility features like modifiable seat configurations and clever storage solutions. One standout innovation is the fold-down tables integrated into the rear doors—brilliant for everything from tailgating and camping to organizing groceries or simply having a mobile workspace. This small but thoughtful touch highlights the SUV’s versatility. Imagine pulling up to a scenic overlook, flipping down a table, and enjoying a beverage while you soak in the view. It’s less about metropolitan chic and more about embracing life’s moments, big and small.

One area where these vehicles converge is technology—but even there, the differences in implementation highlight their unique purposes. Both feature Honda’s advanced Level 3 self-driving capabilities, powered by LiDAR and a neural network of sensors. However, while the Saloon’s system feels like it’s built to enhance the effortless sophistication of city and highway driving, the SUV’s self-driving tech embraces the unpredictability of diverse environments. It’s calibrated to anticipate everything from dense urban traffic to winding country roads, ensuring it’s just as at home on a family road trip as it is on the daily school run.

Let’s talk capacity. As you’d expect, the Zero SUV takes the lead when it comes to passenger and cargo space. The rear seats comfortably accommodate three passengers, and with the seats folded, the cargo area rivals anything in its class. Whether you’re loading up for a weekend getaway or hauling sports gear for the kids, this SUV ensures you won’t run out of room. The Saloon, however, prioritizes opulence over utility. Its four-seat configuration emphasizes individualized comfort, making it less about how much you can pack in and more about the quality of the ride itself. In the Saloon, every passenger is treated to first-class vibes, from the plush seating to the immersive onboard media system.

Even the exterior reveals the split in priorities between these two models. The Saloon’s motorized headlight covers and streamlined body scream urban sophistication, while the SUV’s tougher stance and touch-sensitive door handles point to its emphasis on durability and ease of use. It’s worth noting that the Saloon ditches side mirrors altogether in favor of cameras, giving it that extra edge of futuristic appeal. The SUV, while also sporting camera technology in its prototype phase, may revert to traditional mirrors for specific markets where regulations demand them. It’s a small compromise, but one that underscores the SUV’s focus on adaptability over pure avant-garde design.

Now for the big question: which one should you choose? If you’re someone who pines for elegant, forward-thinking design and innovations that feel cutting-edge yet refined, the Zero Saloon is your dream car. The luxury, the tech, the sheer artistry—it all aligns to create a vehicle that’s as much a statement piece as it is a mode of transportation. But if your life calls for practicality, space, and flexibility—whether for family adventures or simply navigating life’s many demands—the Zero SUV is your go-to. Its rugged sophistication and clever features make it a versatile companion, capable of adapting to whatever life throws your way.

In either case, what Honda has delivered here isn’t merely an EV—it’s the future of personal mobility, sculpted and reimagined according to two distinct visions. If you’re still on the fence, my advice? Check them both out at your nearest Honda dealership when they launch in 2026. Whether it’s the Saloon’s futuristic allure or the SUV’s rugged charm, one of these models is bound to win your heart—and change how you think about driving in the process.

Feeling intrigued? Head to Honda Zero Series for additional specs and a closer look at how Honda is shaping the future of EVs.

the road ahead: Honda’s EV timeline and industry impact

CES 2025 was a watershed moment for Honda. By unveiling the Zero Saloon and Zero SUV, the automaker sent a clear message: they aren’t just dipping their toes into the EV market—they’re cannonballing into the deep end, disrupting a crowded space with a fresh, electrified perspective. But the buzz isn’t just about the cars themselves. It’s about what these vehicles signify for Honda’s roadmap, the broader industry, and, honestly, the way we think about what it means to “drive.” Let me break down what lies ahead, both in terms of their product launch timeline and the ripples this move is likely to create across the automotive world.

Let’s talk brass tacks: Honda has committed to launching the Zero SUV first, with its arrival slated for early 2026. Why the SUV before the Saloon? It’s all about markets and demographics. SUVs dominate global sales charts for a reason—they combine space, versatility, and familial appeal, making them the bread-and-butter of many automakers’ portfolios. Honda knows this well and is playing its cards strategically. A smooth rollout of the SUV could fast-track consumer trust in the Zero series’ tech, paving the way for the Saloon, which is expected to hit showrooms later in 2026.

Unlike a concept car parked at an auto show with no clear path to the production line, the Zero SUV and Saloon already feel palpably close to the real world. Honda has stated that the prototypes showcased at CES are “closer to final production than most concepts,” suggesting that what we’ve seen is largely what we can expect to drive in just over a year. Sure, minor tweaks will inevitably be made—perhaps some regulatory adjustments for side mirrors or fine-tuning the steering yolk for mass-market appeal—but the essence of these vehicles is set in stone. And that’s exciting, because they’re not just conceptually groundbreaking; Honda has proven with these vehicles that they’re ready to execute.

But let’s zoom out for a moment—not just literally, as these cars glide into the future, but metaphorically. What does this bold EV push mean for Honda as a company? This is about more than just selling electric cars. It’s a rebranding in real-time, a high-stakes pivot at a moment when the auto industry is reaching a crossroads. While Honda has long been associated with reliability (hello, Honda Civic, our dependable friend), they’ve sometimes played it safe, letting more aggressive innovators like Tesla, Rivian, and even legacy competitors like Hyundai and Mercedes steal the spotlight in the EV arms race. The Zero lineup is Honda’s declaration that they’re ready to be a major player in the game again—and they’re playing to win.

Consider their approach to self-driving technology. The Zero series doesn’t just dabble in autonomy—it leaps forward with Level 3 capabilities in both models. These cars will be capable of handling “eyes-off” driving scenarios under certain conditions—a milestone that few vehicles on the market today truly achieve at scale. For context, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, while impressive, still operates at Level 2, requiring constant driver supervision. Honda’s gamble on Level 3 autonomy places them in a small, elite club and opens doors for an entirely new way of thinking about daily commutes. By moving beyond gimmicks like lane assist to full-fledged AI-driven control, they’re not just matching the competition—they’re outpacing it in key areas.

Speaking of competition, the Zero series throws down the gauntlet in terms of design ethos. Honda’s design language over the decades has been conservative but approachable: think practical interiors, smart exterior styling, and a generally “everyman” appeal. The Zero lineup crushes that mold. Here, we have a swooning, futuristic salute to minimalism, playful lighting choreography, and an interior worthy of a Scandinavian design exhibit. It’s as if Honda woke up one day and decided it was done blending into the background. With rivals like Tesla adopting minimalism bordering on starkness and others leaning into overly busy designs (Toyota’s bZ4X comes to mind), Honda has hit a harmonious middle ground. The Zero Saloon and SUV feel fresh yet timeless, innovative yet emotionally resonant.

And then there’s sustainability, which Honda has wisely woven into the narrative. The push toward greener vehicles has often been a balancing act between reducing emissions and addressing environmental concerns tied to manufacturing. Honda envisions the Zero models not just as electrified products but as part of a larger ecosystem—production techniques limit carbon footprints, recycled materials dominate the cabin, and energy efficiency governs every design decision. Honda isn’t just building clean cars; they’re striving to clean up the process that builds them.

Of course, no revolution happens without a few growing pains. Honda’s EV timeline is ambitious, but the market is brutally competitive. By 2026, when these vehicles enter full production, nearly every automaker worth its salt will have a robust lineup of next-gen EVs. Tesla’s Cybertruck (assuming it continues lumbering forward), Rivian’s R1 lineup, Ford’s Mustang Mach-E and Lightning, and newcomers from Europe like VW’s Trinity project—these are just a few of the challengers Honda will face. That’s not even mentioning the Chinese EVs rapidly staking claims across global markets, from BYD to Nio. The keyword? Differentiation. Honda isn’t trying to toe the line—they’re drawing a new one. With their Zero lineup, the blend of bold tech, unique styling, and human-centered innovation may well be their ticket to standing out.

The long-term implications for the auto industry are staggering. Honda’s emphasis on weaving tech into every fiber of the driving experience—whether it’s ambient lighting that adapts to your mood, AI-driven personalization, or seamless self-driving integration—is a major nudge for competitors. They’ve set a new benchmark for what drivers will come to expect from EVs: a machine that isn’t just smart but anticipatory, feeling more like a co-pilot than just a car. By creating an experience that’s equal parts practical, inspired, and luxurious, Honda is upping the stakes and redefining the EV space—not by chasing trends but by reshaping them.

So what can we expect as we inch closer to 2026? For starters, a heightened buzz in the EV community. Whispers are already circulating about Honda’s next moves—will there be a Zero Coupe? Or perhaps a larger family-oriented Honda MPV jumping into the EV battlefield? And more importantly, how will competitors scramble to respond? One thing’s for sure: the Zero lineup isn’t just a signal of where Honda is heading; it’s a wake-up call for the industry to step up its game.

The long road ahead might be paved with challenges, but it feels like Honda is ready for the journey. With the Zero Saloon and Zero SUV, they’ve managed to do something few legacy automakers have nailed: make innovation feel personal, exciting, and achievable. It’s not just about the machines—they’re crafting a vision for how we live, move, and experience the world. And if that doesn’t get the pulse racing, I don’t know what will. To keep track of updates on Honda’s bold electric future, check out Honda’s EV Roadmap. Trust me, the future is closer than you think.