Since its initial UK launch in 1997, the Honda CR-V has been a pioneer in the SUV sector. Leading the way as a ‘soft-roader’, the Honda CR-V has since become one of the Japanese manufacturer’s best-selling cars and remains a popular SUV today.
It’s not often that such a popular model undergoes a major revamp, but this year the Honda CR-V enters a new era. Now in its fifth-generation guise, the all-new CR-V marks the car’s biggest makeover since its launch 22 years ago. Here’s what you can expect from the Honda CR-V going forward.
The all-new Honda CR-V now comes with a 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine. Honda has decided to scrap the diesel engine in its new CR-V models, replacing it with a petrol engine with manual transmission and CVT. The engine is available in a choice of two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, with power delivered via a six-speed manual gearbox. Intelligent Control System gives Honda CR-V some all-terrain capability, but the extra 38mm of ground clearance ensures the new CR-V is still equipped for all ground.
Although the diesel engine is no longer available in newCR-V models, Honda has introduced a brand new option for the SUV: a petrol-electric hybrid engine. This new offering is a first for the brand and also comes with an all-wheel option. Due to go on sale next month, the new hybrid CR-V offers 53.3mpg combined and CO2 from 120g/km.
The Honda CR-V, although compact, is the largest Honda SUV available in the UK. That is possibly because Honda believes the CR-V is big enough for our needs, and it likely is. But, if you’ve ever wished for a little more space in your Honda car, you’ll be pleased to know that the all-new CR-V can now carry up to 7 people.
The new seven seater CR-V is available as an option in all-wheel drive models. It will reduce the boot size by around 90 litres, but the second row of seats will slide up to 150mm to let you tailor the space to suit your needs.
On the inside, the all-new Honda CR-V has a more upmarket feel than ever before. This is largely thanks to the use of fresh materials and design, plus two seven-inch displays upfront on the dashboard. There’s also an abundance of space, with an extra large space in the centre console and door pockets that are large enough to hold a tablet.
The all-new Honda CR-V has had a makeover on the outside, too. It’s slightly larger than before but sleeker than ever, with thinner A-pillars and broader wheel arches than its predecessors. This sculpted exterior makes for a much roomier space inside and improved aerodynamic performance.
The CR-V is one of Honda’s best-selling models for good reason and, with these major updates to the popular SUV, it doesn’t look like that will change anytime soon. Click here to check out our latest offers on the all-new Honda CR-V or pop into one of our Honda showrooms to take a test drive.