Standing for “Smart,” “Urban,” and “Versatile,” Honda's 4th generation compact SUV further improves on its strengths of having the efficiency of a passenger car, the functionality of a mini-van, and the security and confidence of an SUV.
Smart
Making it “Smart,” the all-new CR-V is equipped with an Eco Assist System that consists of an ECON mode button and Eco coaching ambient light to make it the most fuel efficient CR-V... EVER. Just like in the all-new Civic, ECON mode controls the engine, throttle, transmission, and air-con performance to improve fuel consumption, while the Eco coaching ambient light tells you how good, or bad, your fuel economy is.
Four-cylinder 2.0L SOHC and 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC engines help the CR-V achieve numbers as high as 11.0 km/L. Though they may look the same as the powerplants found in the previous CR-V, new friction reducing technology has improved power output. The 2.0L now produces 151 horsepower and 190.2 Nm of torque, whereas the 2.4L version is capable of 182 hp and 219.7 Nm of torque. Unfortunately, Honda seems to be lagging behind in technology when it comes to their transmissions. When others have already shifted to CVT's or six-speed units, the CR-V still depends on a conventional five-speed automatic.
Urban
On top of its high tech features, it's also dressed to fit in the city's luxurious lifestyle. The all-new CR-V wears a bolder front end with its three-tier chrome grill that's integrated into the new swept-back projector-type headlights. Meanwhile, a more prominent C-pillar at the back and curvier tail lights give it more boot. And inside, all surfaces are covered in black with touches of silver and faux marble highlights. It also comes with daytime running lights and a sunroof to make it extra special.
In today's iPad-dependent generation, just about everything we use has screens, buttons, and must play music. Not be left behind, the all-new CR-V comes with an i-MID system with a 5-inch LCD display that displays fuel consumption, vehicle settings, and audio controls. It also functions as a rear view camera, which proves handy when parking. The steering wheel is likewise littered with buttons for audio, Cruise Control, and the Hands-Free Telephone (HFT) function.
Versatile
Honda has decreased the CR-V’s height by 25mm and shortened its length by 35mm to make it more aerodynamic. Yet somehow, they've managed to add 65L more cargo space, brining up the total to 589L. And with the addition of One-Pull Fold-Down 60/40 split rear seats, you can load more than you think inside the cabin.
Improvements were also made to the suspension to further strengthen the all-new CR-V's car-like handling, while added insulation throughout the cabin should make for a quieter ride. Plus, features such as ABS with EBD now come standard with the addition of Hill Start Assist for the 2.4L version.
SUV Lifestyle
The all-new CR-V might not be the prettiest, most technologically-advanced, or the most affordable crossover out in the market by some people's standards, but it definitely redefines what a compact SUV should be - comfortable, functional, and fuel efficient.
With the supply issue in Thailand still around, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) is currently importing the all-new 2012 CR-V from Japan. Prices start at P1,425,000 for the 2.0L LX AT (2WD) and P1,655,000 for the 2.4L EX AT (4WD) with color options of Polished Metal Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Taffeta White, White Orchid Pearl, and Twilight Blue.
For more details, please visit www.cr-v.com.ph.
