All-New 2017 Honda CR-V
Honda whipped the covers of fifth-generation CR-V that comes with an evolutionary redesign, slightly
increased dimensions for improved space, added features and a new 1.5-liter
turbocharged engine.
The CR-V is a pivotal model in the brand’s lineup in US, leading a very
crowded and competitive segment with popular compact SUVs such as the Toyota
RAV4, Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Equinox and Ford Escape.
Honda believes that the redesigned 2017 CR-V has all
the ingredients to continue its successful course in the market.
The new CR-V has a more
characterful exterior design than the fourth-gen
model, stealing some crispier styling cues from the new Civic and in the case of LED headlamp equipped models,
from Acura as well, all while retaining a familiar shape. In a Honda first, the
2017 CR-V also gets an Automatic Shutter Grille System that lowers aerodynamic
drag.
The interior has an edgier and more contemporary
design, with the Japanese brand claiming that it benefits from improved
ergonomics, including a physical volume knob on the (7-inch touchscreen)
infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and
higher-quality, soft-touch materials. The new CR-V continues to offer seating
for five, but a 41 mm wheelbase and better interior packaging
results in a 53 mm increase in rear legroom, while cargo space grows
by 2 cubic feet to 39 cubic feet.
New comfort and convenience 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 and rear outboard seats.
Last year’s 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated
four-cylinder engine returns producing 184 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque,
but for the first time, the CR-V will be offered with a turbocharged gasoline
engine, based on the 1.5-liter force-fed unit found in the Civic, massaged to
deliver 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque in the SUV. Both units will be
mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control
logic, driving the front, or optionally, all-four wheels.
More detailed specifications, including EPA ratings,
along with prices, will be released closer to the 2017 CR-V’s on-sale date
later this fall.
