New 2013 Honda CR-V 2.0 review, test drive

We comprehensively road test the all-new CR-V and find out how much better it is.

Published on Jun 15, 2013 05:48:00 PM

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New 2013 Honda CR-V 2.0 review, test drive

Although the car maintains its saloon-like handling, there are a couple of areas that aren’t as accomplished as we would have liked. To begin with, the CR-V’s ride feels a little unsettled and denies it that ‘big car feel’. A stiffer chassis and re-tuned suspension means it does ride quite well for the most part but, sharp edges do filter through and the car has a tendency to follow undulations on the road. It just doesn’t have the flat ride like say the Skoda Yeti, which is the real benchmark for SUV dynamics today.

That said, for a car this size, the steering and clutch are very light and the new CR-V feels a lot more nimble and agile on its feet compared to the older car. The steering wheel has been replaced by a new electric unit which is a delight to use in the city but is a bit too light for highway use. Though it’s precise and consistent, we would have preferred a weightier steering with more feel. Around the bends, the CR-V perfectly exhibits its saloon-like traits and body roll is kept to a minimum. There is some tyre squeal but, you can safely approach corners at a full 20-25kph quicker in the CR-V than in any other SUV this size. As for the brakes, they are effective, but feel a bit grabby towards the end of their travel.