The fifth incarnation of the Honda stalwart SUV, the CR-V, is set for local introduction this month.
The new CR-V, based on a modified Civic platform, has a 41 mm longer wheelbase, offers 53 mm more rear legroom, and 56 litres more luggage space than the current model, making a 7-seat layout possible for the first time in the model’s history.
Design-wise, the new CR-V differs markedly from its predecessor, sharing many styling cues with the latest Civic and BR-V models. It is also the first vehicle from Honda with an Active Shutter Grille to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Apart from High Beam Support headlights, it also features wing-shaped LED driving lights, a longer hood, and more pronounced wheel-arches. The rear retains vertical tail-lamps, but gains a hands-free access power tailgate.
The new CR-V will be available with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, an electric parking brake, high-quality soft-touch materials, keyless ignition, rear USB points, and a host of safety systems.
It will be powered by the existing 2.4-litre i-VTEC engine (115 kW and 190 Nm) coupled to a CVT gearbox and will also receive a new 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine (118 kW at 4,000 r/min and 350 Nm at 2,000 r/min) paired to a new ZF 9-speed automatic gearbox. Both powertrains will be available in the FWD and AWD models. Pricing was not yet finalised by the time of going to print.
