All-New Honda CR-V Likely Launching In India By End-2018

2018 Honda CR-V to launch in India with seven-seater configuration; to boast a new 1.6-litre diesel engine making 158 hp and 350 Nm torque

Addressing its overwhelming popularity and to continue its status as the bestselling model, Honda introduced the fifth generation CR-V for the North American market earlier last year. Just few months after, it was officially launched at the Bangkok Motor Show in March 2017 before entering showrooms in foreign markets. Here is everything you need to know about the 2018 Honda CR-V:

2018 Honda CR-V India Launch

Having made debut at the 2018 Auto Expo, it has been confirmed to launch in this financial year. We suspect its market entry during festive season or towards the end of the year.

2018 Honda CR-V Engine, Specs and Mileage

First thing is first, it will arrive with seven seat configuration rather than five-seat layout as seen in US. As for the powertrain, the new-gen premium SUV gets a bigger 2.4-litre i-VTEC petrol engine. Mated to a CVT automatic transmission, it is basically the same unit currently exists making 190 hp. The major performance enhancer will be the advent of a new 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel motor for the first time in an ASEAN-spec CR-V.

Also Read: Honda BR-V Gets 7-Inch Digipad Touchscreen Infotainment System 

It is capable of generating a maximum power output of 158 hp at 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm peak torque developed in the lower rev band of 2,000 rpm. It is linked to a brand new ZF nine-speed automatic gearbox. Honda will be offering two-wheel-drive as standard and four-wheel-drive as optional on both mills giving customers different choices to choose from.

However, what stayed as a big highlight in the North American CR-V, the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol based on Civic’s motor (making 190 hp and 243 Nm), won’t come into light on the ASEAN-spec version.

2018 Honda CR-V Exterior Design

The CR-V is a global sales extractor for the Japanese brand which will prompt the styling to remain the same. With a restyled bodywork, the new-gen CR-V boasts a sleeker stance compared to its predecessor with larger chrome grille and is aerodynamically more efficient thanks to the auto-shutting grille.

Also Read: 2017 Honda City Facelift – All You Need to Know 

2018 Honda CR-V Interior and Features

Made available in LX, EX, EX-L, EX-L with Navi and Touring trims in the US, the 2017 Honda CR-V gains a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, voice controls, premium soft-touch material, remote engine start, dual rear USB charging ports, heated side mirrors, a two-zone climate control system, auto headlamps, maximum wheel size of 18 inches depending on the variants and LED Daytime Running Lights.

The fifth generation model will be more spacious and has a redesigned cabin. Leather trim and wood and metal touches combined with good fit and finish and use of high quality materials will further enhance its demeanour. The automatic variant features a quirky push-button selector positioned in the centre console while AC controls and a floating touchscreen infotainment system can be found just above.

The major highlight is the third row seat with reclining seatbacks and dedicated AC vents. Other important features are a powered tailgate, electric parking brake, four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat, etc. It will be a feature packed SUV unlike its predecessor in a nutshell.

2018 Honda CR-V Dimensions

It measures 4,571 mm in length, 1,885 mm in height, 1,667 mm in width and has a wheelbase of 2,662 mm. The new CR-V gains 41 mm longer wheelbase resulting in increase of 53 mm rear legroom while the bootspace has grown as well.

Honda is concentrating more on the premium end of the scale and therefore the re-entry of Civic sedan will happen as well. While the WR-V has made quite an impact and impressed in the volume space so far, the arrival of new-gen CR-V directly will enhance the brand’s portfolio.

Also Read: Honda Civic Could be Relaunched in India Tells CEO Yoichiro Ueno

Though not as much as the Civic, the CR-V has its own fan following in the domestic market. Honda was unable to capitalise its initial momentum, as has been the case with several other models, as it is sold only with a choice of 2.0L and 2.4L petrol engines. With just three variants on offer, the top-spec model allows for 4WD with a six-speed auto ‘box.

It is likely set to change with the cleaner and more fuel efficient diesel engine 1.6L diesel engine enabling more variants. Moreover, the ZF nine-speed auto ‘box could be slotted in as the range-topper.

2018 Honda CR-V Key Rivals

With a competitive pricing and improved driveability, it might rattle the sales of segment leading Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.

2018 Honda CR-V India Price

The all-new CR-V could be priced between Rs. 27 lakh and Rs. 33 lakh (ex-showroom) in India. It is reported to be slotted against the VW Tiguan and Hyundai Tucson with a much lower price bracket otherwise.

2018 Honda CR-V India Images