Boasting of a bold new styling, a more premium interior, a host of new features and technologies aimed at maintaining the Comfortable Roundabout Vehicles (CRV)’s status as the benchmark in the highly popular compact Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment, Honda debuts an all-new, fifth-generation CR-V.
The new CR-V styling heads in a fresh new direction with an aggressive attitude, thanks to crisp and sharp front-end design elements, aggressive stylised headlights surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array on all trims, and wide, muscular fenders.
The long hood, longer wheelbase and short rear overhang gives the new CR-V a more sophisticated and athletic presence.
The CR-V’s new windswept front end appearance includes signature Honda LED headlights (EXtrim), a Honda-first Active Shutter Grille that lowers aerodynamic drag, uprated aluminium alloy wheels (18 inches in EX trim) and narrower A-pillars for improved visibility.
The completely redesigned and reengineered 2018 CR-V, which goes on sale this month, competes with the likes of Hyundai Tucson; Mazda CX-5; Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.
Speaking at a media preview in Lagos, Lead, Sales Marketing Department, The Honda Place (THP), Remi Adams, said the idea behind the concept of the fifth-generation CR-V, after 23 years of first-generation, was to set a benchmark as the next-generation SUVs.
Adams explained that the CR-V was overhauled, and now offers unique characteristics/features to the level that inspires and delight our customers.
He said the company’s effort is to ensure Nigerians got the best, and value for their money experiencing a luxury ride.
Besides, the all new 2018 CR-V is powered by a 2.4-litre DOHC, direct-injected i-VTEC™ engine, and it’s mated to a smooth shifting and sporty continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic.
The all-new body and chassis design in the 2018 CR-V provides more agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance and superior overall versatility.
Its front MacPherson strut, and rear multi-link suspension utilise specially tuned low-friction dampers, including tubular front and solid rear stabiliser bars that promote quick turn-in and flatter cornering. Dual-pinion, variable ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) also contributes to the CR-V’s direct and satisfying steering feel.
The 2018 CR-V also raises the bar for interior refinement, utility and premium features in the compact SUV class. The more spacious cabin, with top-in-class interior space and the best rear seat legroom in its class, features upgraded materials throughout, including a new soft-touch instrument panel and more intricately stitched seats.
A high definition (HD) colour driver information interface (DII) centre meter display adds to the handsome new design aesthetic.
The CR-V offers the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio performance with a new generation of advanced technologies. The CR-V’s7-inch touch-screen Display Audio system is compatible with the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ platforms, giving customers seamless integration of key smartphone features and functions, including smartphone-powered GPS navigation and voice-controlled search capabilities.
Some of the key new comfort and convenience features available on the 2018 Honda CR-V include power programmable tailgate, versatile centre console, dual-zone climate controls, Electric Parking Brake (EPB), Automatic Brake Hold (ABH), two fast charge rear USB ports, and front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment and driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustment.