Since 1995 the Honda CR-V has been a favourite amongst fans of compact sport utility vehicles (SUV). Nothing earth-shattering going on with this Japanese car maker, but it’s a brand that prizes its reputation for reliability. Now this model comes in a hybrid version too.
On The Outside
This latest model CR-V has a fresh and sophisticated exterior design, with broader, bicep-like wheel arches, a more defined shape on the bonnet and rear quarters, as well as the latest Honda family ‘face’ with its signature headlight graphic. A solidly sculpted front bumper, with cleaner surfacing compared to its predecessor, frames a slim grille in the front valance. Sharp contours on the bonnet lead the eye up to a sleek, flush-mounted windscreen, from where the roofline flows back to a tailgate spoiler.
Sharply sculpted LED rear lights flow away from the trailing edge of the shoulder line, then wrap around the rear of the car to create an L-shaped graphic on each side that contains the rear window glass. It is finished by a chrome solid wing bar that runs the width of the tailgate between the lenses.
The CR-V now offers slightly larger exterior proportions over the previous version, with a longer wheelbase and a wider stance enabling a significantly larger interior. The whole is intended to improve overall aerodynamics. This model is, we are told, best-in-class for use of space with plenty of room available for all occupants, as well as a wider, deeper boot with a longer load bay. A hands-free powered tailgate enables convenient loading access.
On The Inside
A strong horizontal emphasis applied to the instrument panel and fascia layout enhances the feel of spaciousness in the cabin and conveying a sense of solidity, while the use of highly tactile materials reinforce that premium ambience. A soft-touch panel sweeps across the width of the cabin, bisected by gloss black accents, and the upper sections of the door panels feature soft-touch caps for driver and passenger comfort.Honda has increased the space in the front foot-wells by raising the lowest parts of the dashboard.
Metallic trim embellishes the air vent bezels, steering wheel trim, door handles and the climate control panel, adding a contemporary finish. Premium seat upholstery is plush black fabric as standard, while high-quality supple leather is available in a choice of black or ivory for upper grade models.
Honda has rationalised the screen layout compared to the previous generation CR-V, now featuring just one central touchscreen in addition to the 7-inch Driver Information Interface (the dashboard in other words) visible through the steering wheel. The control knob layout has also been simplified, including a simple cluster for air-conditioning management located beneath the touchscreen.
Forward visibility is improved thanks to a narrow section for the A-pillars, which are 10mm thinner than the previous model, enhancing the outward viewing angle. Honda has, nonetheless been able to maintain the superior safety characteristics of the pillars by using ultra high-strength steel. The view of the road from over the bonnet has also been improved, thanks to a reduction of 60mm in the body area not visible to the driver. All the usual suspects for climate control, infotainment and smartphone integration are included. Overall the build quality is excellent, seeming safe, solid and dependable, which is the Honda way.
About The Hybrid Drive
The drive selector controls for the Honda CR-V Hybrid are positioned in the centre console, with a design that uses a compact switch-style transmission selector rather than a conventional lever. Drive, Park and Neutral functions require a button push, while Reverse requires a pull-up action. A bespoke ‘Sport’ mode, which can be activated via the drive selector, enables a more responsive throttle input for the hybrid system. If there is sufficient charge in the battery, a short-range pure EV mode is also available at the touch of a button, providing a zero-emissions range of around 2km (1.2 miles) depending on the driving conditions and battery charge.
A 2.0 litre petrol engine acts as a generator for the electric drive which comes in two- or four-wheel drive depending upon model. Some regions may still offer the earlier and still very good 1.5 litre turbo-petrol, but it is the hybrid that calls the shots these days. Drive is through a CVT (continuous variable transmission) gearbox.
On The Road
The CR-Vrides well. It is refined and has a sophisticated suspension system that makes for smooth progress on broken surfaces, remaining composed throughout. Wind-proofing is good and the seat layout means there is plenty of room for five adults. Amazingly, for a family-targeted car with no pretensions toward high performance, body-roll is well controlled and the steering really is communicative and nicely weighted inspiring confidence on twisty roads.
The latest Honda CR-V makes for a wise choice for safe family motoring and is recommended as a fine mainstream choice by us here at MHH Japanese Cars. Get in touch to find out how we can help.
