Honda CR-V Road Test
Review by Tristan Tancredi - 6 February 2013
The All-New Honda CR-V has hit Australian shores offering greater interior space, whilst maintaining a compact exterior style.
Despite being a trusted and great value-for-money vehicle over many years, has the 4th generation model improved enough to deserve our well-earned crust?
The introduction of the 2WD CR-V marks the first time in Australian history that the CR-V is available in both 2WD and 4WD. We spent a week getting to know the all new 2.4L 4WD VTi-L. Let's take a closer look.
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Drive: 4/5
The 2WD offers manual and automatic alternatives, whilst the 4WD is only available in automatic transmission. The 2.4L VTi-L comes with 5-speed automatic transmission that provides more then adequate zip for a passenger SUV.
A few driving modes are accessible via a click of a button including Econ mode and Sports mode. Econ mode limits fuel consumption and emissions, whilst sports gives the SUV a little bit more spark. Still lacking a buzz? Paddle shifters are inclusive. Both modes are very capable.
The VTi-L glides across the tarmac. Smooth and Crisp are two words that best describe how the 4th gen CR-V drives. However, the electro-mechanical steering can become a little too "light on" for touch at times.
Fuel consumption for the 2.4L 4WD variants sits at 8.7 litres per 100kms (according to Honda). We notched up 10+ litres per 100kms after driving through a myriad of driving modes (eco, sports, normal). After reading a few other reviews, it seems 10+ litres per 100kms is more reasonable. An econ driving guide (Similar to past Honda's, a blue or green light illuminates depending on driving habits) aids with fuel conservation.
A bunch of features come standard with the VTi-L, including key less entry with push button start, front and rear parking sensors, dual zone air conditioning, automatic headlights, sunroof and automatic wipers.
Engine: 4.5/5
The CR-V range comes in either 2WD or 4WD. The 2WD is fitted with a typical 2.0 litre SOHC i-VTEC engine. Without having driven the 2WD variant, it's hard to comment, however, a 2.0 litre engine does seem a little "light on" to lug a 1488kg SUV around. The 4WD weighs in a little heavier (1580kg kerb weight), yet a 2.4 litre SOHC i-VTEC donk sits in the hood.
The 2.4L engine is more than capable across a variety of terrain. On-Road and the engine delivers more then enough gusto. Take the CR-V off-road and there is plenty in the 2.4L engine to ascend the steepest of climbs.
The maximum power provided by the 2.4L engine is 140Kw @ 7000 rpm. Maximum torque is 222Nm @ 4000rpm. This translates to decent power from a starting position.
Inside the cabin and the engine barely makes a squeak thanks to added sound insulation material. In other words, the engine note is quieter thanks to sound absorption materials scattered throughout the vehicle. Planting the pedal to the metal and you can hear the engine strain away, yet it's not a noise to write home about.
Exterior: 4.5/5
An exceptionally wide boot mouth allows for a great weekend away. That is, enough space for a couple of sets of golf clubs and an esky. Brilliant. The wide opening allows for cargo to be loaded and unloaded without any hassles.
Not known for its on-road presence, the CR-V has undergone some structural change to give it more of an on-road edge. Deeper sculpting of the body lines pronounce the shape of the vehicle and give it a slightly aggressive style.
Coupled with a more distinct front bonnet and grille, a decently sized chrome exhaust pipe and SP Sport Tyres, the CR-V stands out a little more than it used to.
The CR-V measures in at 4545mm long, 1820mm wide and 1685mm tall. Despite being more compact and slightly smaller than its predecessor, size is not lost inside the cabin.
Safety: 5/5
Finding a Honda without a 5-star safety rating is like finding an alien on Mars. Not likely. Honda preaches safety in all its products and why wouldn't they? Safety is paramount when new-car buyers are deciding what car to purchase. Not surprisingly, the All-New CR-V is awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Pre 2012, the CR-V was a 4-star car. Honda have added a heap of safety features to buck this trend and deliver the latest CR-V model a 5-star rating across the board.
Safety features include; Front driver dual stage airbags, side airbags with OPDS, full length curtain airbags, ABS, EBD, Hill Start Assist (Auto), reversing camera and vehicle stability assist (VSA) with traction control.
Interior: 4.5/5
Inside the cabin of the VTi-L and there's an abundance of leather; Leather seating, Leather Steering wheel and leather trim. Rounding out the clean, modern interior design is a marble-like pattern across the front dash. A quick vox pop concluded that this addition wasn't quite a winner for Honda.
Carpet mats line the floor of the VTi-L cabin which helped to maintain a dirt-free surface. After a week of alternating between dusty country roads and sandy beaches, the floor was a filthy combination of dirt, rocks and sand. The carpet however hid whatever mess lay beneath and was easily cleaned. A great addition that is highly recommended.
On the flip side, the plastic skirts below the interior doors seemed to magnify the slightest scuff marks. We could only imagine the difficulty to maintaining a clean interior with a car full of kids.
The VTi-L is the only CR-V variant that includes Electronic/Power Seat Adjustment and Leather Seating. The front seats are comfortable and provide adequate lumbar support. The rear seats are suitable for 3 average sized adults. "Bigger on the inside and smaller on the outside" was the tagline used by Honda and it's a pretty accurate summary.
"Bigger on the inside" rings true with plenty of boot space (556L, or with the back seats down 1648L) that is easily accessible via a wide boot opening.
A USB is positioned neatly in the spacious centre console (made spacious by the use of a foot park brake). The iPod interface on the Honda display screen is simple to navigate through various categories and playlists. One of the better interfaces out there. However, the lack of an AUX input is disappointing for those people out there without iPods.
Bluetooth connectivity is standard across the range. Navigation software is standard for the Sports and Luxury models and is efficient, reliable and easy to use.
Overall: 4.5/5
The 4th Generation Honda CR-V differs in many ways from the CR-Vs of yesteyear, yet in true Honda fashion, it remains true to the CR-V brand.
Despite having slightly more interior space, a tinge of edginess, 2WD and 4WD variants, improved aerodynamics and (supposed) improved fuel consumption, the 4th Generation CR-V is, simply put, an upgrade to the CR-V brand. And quite a good one at that.
The VTi-L is jam packed full of goodies and luxuries and is priced from $42,290 (auto). Head on down to Honda and check one out.
* Prices are manufacturer list prices only, for the drive away price please contact your local authorised Honda dealer.
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