New Honda CR-V expects to make a strong statement in the segment with three-row seating, nine-speed AT and a fuel-efficient diesel engine
Honda Cars India is all pumped to launch the brand new version of the CR-V in the domestic market tomorrow and ahead of its introduction it is important to know the features and specifications it will come up with. For the first time, the Japanese manufacturer is bringing in the CR-V as a seven-seater to infuse more practicality into the SUV.
The CR-V is a global top-seller for Honda but in India it has not really caught on despite being a popular nameplate. The new generation version also comes with the most fuel efficient diesel engine in its segment as Honda tries to address the economy issues by improving on this parameter. It is also the only model to feature a nine-speed ZF-sourced automatic transmission until the Jeep Compass Trailhawk arrives.
The unit connected to the all-new 1.6-litre Earth Dreams turbocharged diesel will have claimed fuel economy of 18.6 kmpl. Drive is sent to all four wheels through standard paddle shifters as well in the top-end variants as the maximum power produced stands at 120 hp and 300 Nm of peak torque is delivered right from the low rpms.
Honda has opted not to go with the twin-turbo version of the same powertrain due to cost reasons and resultantly it appears underpowered compared to rivals like Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour. The manual ‘box won’t be offered in both engine options as the 2.0-litre petrol motor can be had with 154 hp and 189 Nm mated to a CVT.
The diesel version is the most practical as only five-seat configuration and front-wheel-drive will be available in the petrol without paddle shifters. Honda will stuff in a lot of equipment into the new CR-V as part of providing enhanced comfort and convenience bits, while driver assistance and safety features will also be on the top level.
Some of the main features to be on offer in the dimensionally grown new Honda CR-V are seven-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, dual-zone climate control, powered driver seat, heated side mirrors, auto headlamps, LED DRLs, push button gear shifting, etc.