The World’s most recognized and beloved sport utility just got better. Since the introduction of the CR-V in 1996, the Honda CR-V has been a consistent best seller with 8.7 units sold in the global market. With the volatility of gasoline prices in the local market, Honda aims to address this problem by introducing a diesel powered variant.
In attendance for the grand launch of the all-new CR-V at the Shangri-La Hotel in Makati were Ayala Corporation and Honda Motor Co. Ltd (HMCL) of Japan executives led by former Honda Ph GM, now HMCL Managing and Chief Officer Automobile Operations Takashi Sekiguchi. “It is nice to be back in the Philippines, a country close to my heart,” says Sekiguchi, who initiated the night’s festivities with a speech about the new CR-V.
Turbo diesel drivetrain
Honda Ph unveiled three versions of the seven-seater diesel equipped CR-V; the SX Diesel 9AT AWD; S Diesel 9AT, V Diesel 9AT and the entry level five-seater 2.0S CVT. Under the hood is a 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC Diesel TURBO engine developed under Earth Dreams Technology that produces a maximum power of 120PS at 4,000rpm and peak torque of 300Nm at 2,000rpm. The downsized diesel turbo engine is mated to a new 9 Speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Gear Selector and Paddle Shifters that produces a powerful yet cleaner and more efficient output. The new gearbox also offers a number of real-world benefits to consumers. Low gear ratio ensures a quick and powerful launch while the high gear ratio gives lower engine speed at cruising speed giving the car lower noise level and better fuel consumption. Honda also revealed that it plans to retain its 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine offering to the Philippine Market exclusively for the 5-seater variant. The 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine produces a maximum output of 154PS at 6,500rpm and peak torque of 189Nm at 4,300rpm and is mated to a new Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) developed under Earth Dreams Technology for better fuel efficiency.
Redesigned and spacious interior
The dynamism of this new variant continues to the cabin interiors with an aggressive design that surely meets the aesthetic requirement of the Filipino market. Revolving around its exterior concept of “Modern Functional Dynamic”, the front end reflects an aggressive, yet sportier look that is complemented by the new grille design and signature Honda Full LED headlights. New High Beam Support System is now available for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant which enables the All-New CR-V to automatically change from low to high beam in dark driving conditions.
The wide muscular arches and tailgate spoiler, plus the headlight integrated Guide Type LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), gives the All-New CR-V its modern and dynamic stance. The Panoramic Sunroof, Power Tailgate, and Auto Rain Sensing Wipers which are exclusive features for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant, gives it a practical and luxurious feel. Massive 18-inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants compliment the overall look of the CR-V.
The 2017 CR-V also offers impressive space and comfort featuring a cabin designed to comfortably accommodate up to seven passengers. Visual changes were made to the instrument clusters which has a highly informative Full Color Thin Film Transistor (TFT) that come standard across all variants. The driver’s seat SX Diesel 9AT AWD is fitted with an Electronic eight-way power adjustment with four-way power Lumbar support that gives the most comfortable seat configuration for every driver. The second row seats of the seven-seater diesel variants features a 60:40 Split Rear seat configuration that slides and recline for an easy ingress and egress of the passengers at the third row. Air conditioning vents and two USB charging ports at the center console are also available for added comfort and convenience.
Honda also upped the ante of this fifth generation CR-V with a host of safety features such as: Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold, Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Driver Attention Monitor, Driver and Passenger Airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Multi-View Reverse Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, and Low Tire Pressure Warning system.
Additional convenience and safety features such as LaneWatch Camera, Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags, and Walk Away Auto Lock feature will also come in standard for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD, S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants.
The all new CR-V is now available in dealers nationwide, and prices start at P1,539,000 for the five-seater 2.0 SCVT and to high end version SX Diesel with a nine-speed AT priced at P2,049,000.
