Honda CR V
Honda CR V Review
Summary
The Honda CR-V is now in its fourth generation in India. The SUV was introduced more than a decade back and was once among the top-selling Honda cars in India, but its sales started falling due to consumers’ growing preference for diesel models. Despite the limited numbers, Honda introduced the new generation CR-V in 2013.
Recently, Honda has imported a diesel CR-V for homologation in India with a 1.6-litre diesel engine. Introduction of a diesel would certainly give the CR-V new firepower to compete with likes of the Renault Koleos, Skoda Yeti and the upcoming Hyundai Tuscon as they are all five seater SUVs. But with its price tag, it comes close to the full-size SUVs like Toyota Fortuner, Mitsubishi Pajero, Hyundai Santa Fe and Ford Endeavour.
Exterior
The 4th-gen CR-V looks more masculine and aggressive than its predecessor, though it retains the basic DNA. The length has been reduced by 30mm and the height is increased by 5mm. The front end features a new chrome grille and the swept back HID headlamps with washer. The side profile looks different with pronounced wheel arches, 17-inches alloys, dual tone (body colored and black grey) theme, chrome surround windows and a new shark fin antenna. At the rear end, it gets a new 3D tail lamp, triangular quarter glass and curvy rear windshield.
Interior
The SUV is certainly more up-market than the old model. However, the wooden insert dashboard with silver surround, silver accents on the doors and steering wheels remain same. A 6.1-inches touchscreen display is offered only with the top-end variant. Driver seat is 8-way electronically adjustable. There is ample legroom and headroom. It comes equipped with plenty of features such as audio system with CD/DVD player, iPod and USB support, paddle shifts etc.
Equipped with several advanced safety features, the SUV ensures a confidence-inspiring and safe drive. It gets front dual SRS airbags, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist, vehicle stability assist, parking brake, Motion-adaptive electric power steering, auto door lock/ unlock, security alarm and immobilizer and seat belts.
Engine and Transmission
The updated model continues to be powered with 2.0-litre i-VTEC and 2.4-litre i-VTEC petrol engines, which powered the previous car. The 1997cc, 2.0-litre, SOHC, i-VTEC engine belts out a maximum power of 154bhp at 6500rpm with a peak torque of 190Nm at 4300rpm. The 2354cc, 2.4-litre, DOHC i-VTEC produces a maximum power output of 187bhp at 7000rpm, while yielding a torque of 226Nm at 4400rpm. The 2WD (two-wheel drive) trims are offered with a six-speed manual and a five-speed automatic transmission options, while the 4WD (four-wheel drive) variants are available with a five-speed automatic gearbox only.
Performance and Handling
Both the petrol engines are refined, but aren’t frugal. Power supply is linear. Gearshift is smooth, but automatic gearbox is a bit slow. The low-end performance is mediocre, and overtaking on highways requires some extra efforts with gearbox. Ride is comfortable as suspension soaks bumps and potholes on rough roads. The high speed stability is pretty impressive.
Mileage
The 1997 cc Petrol – powered variant delivers a fuel economy of 10 kmpl in city and 12 kmpl on highways.
Safety Features
Equipped with several advanced safety features, the SUV ensures a confidence-inspiring and safe drive. It gets front dual SRS airbags, side and curtain airbags, ABS with EBD, hill start assist, vehicle stability assist, parking brake, Motion-adaptive electric power steering, auto door lock/ unlock, security alarm & immobilizer and seat belts.