Honda has released first set of images and information on the all-new CR-V. The fifth-generation Honda CR-V is slightly larger than the outgoing model and, for the first time, gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
The new CR-V’s design is a clean departure from the earlier model. The styling is more angular and modern than its predecessor and is more in line with the current-gen Honda offerings like the Civic unveiled abroad recently, and the BR-V closer home. There are some styling bits thrown in from Honda’s premium division, Acura, especially on the rear and the LED tail lamps. In Honda's first, the new CR-V gets an automatic shutter grille tech that lowers aerodynamic drag.
The new CR-V’s interior gets a more practical yet contemporary layout. There's a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system replete with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is also laid out with high-quality soft-touch material. Honda has released details of the North American CR-V where the car continues to be a five-seater. However, the Euro-spec model is likely to get a seven-seat layout. The fifth-gen CR-V gets a 41mm longer wheelbase and better interior packaging that results in a 53mm increase in rear legroom, while cargo space is up by 2 cubic feet to 39 cubic feet. Additionally, the CR-V gets features like remote engine start, dual zone climate control, heated wing mirrors, and an electric parking brake alone with equipment such as USB charging ports for the second row, a four-way power adjustable front passenger seat and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat.
Under the hood, the new CR-V for the first time gets a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine good for 190hp. A 2.4-litre 184hp petrol motor will also be available. The sole gearbox on offer on both powerplants is a CVT unit. Honda will offer its SH-AWD tech as an option for North America.
In India, the CR-V is sold as a petrol-only model and lack of a diesel engine for a vehicle this size means sales are low. Honda is yet to bring in a mid-cycle refresh for the fourth-gen car that went on sale internationally more than a year ago. The top-spec CR-V currently is priced around Rs 32.4 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). At this price, there are rugged options available such as the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour, which come with a seven-seat layout and torquey diesel engines.