Here comes the all-new fifth-generation Honda CR-V. The new crossover SUV has been completely redesigned and reengineered, ground up offering Acura-like bolder styling and a more premium interior. It also will be available with the model’s first-ever turbocharged engine and a host of new features and technologies.
The CR-V’s new windswept front end comprises of signature Honda LED headlights (Touring trim) surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array on all trims, and wide, muscular fenders; and a Honda-first Active Shutter Grille that lowers aerodynamic drag (everybody seems to be doing this these days). The new SUV also gets new aluminum alloy wheels design with sizes from 17 to 18 inches depending on trim) and narrower A-pillars for improved visibility. Adding convenience is a Honda-first available Hands-Free Access Power Tailgate, which allows opening and closing the tailgate with a foot activated sensor under the rear of the vehicle. The rear end is beautifully poised too with LED strip lighting and dual exhausts pipes.
The 2017 CR-V in EX and higher trims will feature CR-V’s first ever turbocharged 1.5-litre DOHC, direct-injected in-line 4-cylinder powerplant rated at 190 horsepower (SAE net). Combined with the CR-V’s sleeker silhouette, the new turbocharged powerplant is claimed to achieve the highest EPA fuel economy ratings in the compact SUV class. CR-V LX trims will be powered by a regular 2.4-liter DOHC, direct-injected i-VTECÔ engine. Both engines will be mated to a “sporty” continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic. More specifications will be provided closer to launch.
The all-new body and chassis design in the 2017 CR-V is claimed to provide greater road-holding, refinement and also boasts additional ground clearance. Its front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link suspension utilize specially tuned low-friction dampers, with both FWD and AWD models including tubular front and solid rear stabilizer bars that promote quicker turn-in and flatter cornering. Dual-pinion, variable ratio Electric Power Steering (EPS) also contribute to the CR-V’s dynamics.
The 2017 CR-V will also host a new interior – not so much of a departure from the previous model stylistically – but it will be more spacious cabin with stylized seats and is claimed to offer the best rear seat legroom in its class. A color TFT driver information interface (DII) center meter display adds to the new cabin design.
At the centre will be a 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio interface with Android operating system that now features a physical volume knob (thank the creator for that) as well as an available new Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ developed in collaboration with Garmin®. The CR-V ‘s Display Audio system is also compatible with the Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ platforms, allowing customers to smartphone-powered functionality such as GPS navigation and voice-controlled search etc.
Other key features include remote engine start, dual-zone climate controls, heated side mirrors, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), rear USB charging ports, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment and driver’s seat with 8-way power adjustment and 4-way power lumbar support and heated front seats.
The 2017 CR-V furthers its safety portfolio by introducing Honda Sensing as standard equipment on EX and higher trims. Honda Sensing includes Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and pedestrian sensing capability, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS). Additional new driver-assistive technologies include the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) and Auto High Beam (HSS) headlights.
Utilizing Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2017 CR-V targets NCAP 5-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a SUPERIOR rating for frontal crash prevention when equipped with Honda Sensing.
The 2017 Honda CR-V will be produced at three plants in North America – in East Liberty, Ohio; Alliston, Ontario, Canada; and, for the first time, in Greensburg, Indiana using domestic and globally sourced parts. Engines for the new CR-V will be manufactured in Anna, Ohio and in Alliston, Ontario, with the CVT being produced in Russells Point, Ohio.
The launch of the GCC version has not been announced yet, but will bear the similar if not same specifications. As for price, we will have to wait and see!
