Honda CR-V First Drive Review: Improved In Every Respect

The very popular Honda CR-V returns in its 5th generation. The car is bigger and better, as our first drive tells you. The India launch is expected in the festive season, and for the first time, Honda will offer a diesel option on the CR-V that drives in with a three-row, 7-seater avatar

Since 1995, the Honda CR-V has been a permanent fixture in the global compact SUV segment. It is a bestseller in the US, accounts for a quarter of Honda's sales in Europe, and is really the car that kick-started the segment in India. Having launched in the US in late 2016, the 5th generation has been rolling out globally through 2017. Having showcased itself at the Auto Expo in February, the car is now set for its India debut. Depending on the market, the CR-V is being offered with naturally aspirated 2.0 or 2.4 petrol engines, and a turbocharged 1.5, or a 1.6-liter turbodiesel. Honda makes front- and all-wheel drive versions of the CR-V. In India we are looking forward to the brand new 1.6 litre diesel finally giving the CR-V an option to its petrol-only India range so far.

Also Read: New 7-Seater Diesel Honda CR-V India Launch Details Revealed

‍From the outside, the new CR-V represents a marked improvement over the last generation, with more sculpted lines and horizontal taillights. It doesn't walk too far away from its predecessor, but it is clearly more modern. And it looks especially good with the top-of-the-line 19-inch wheels. The daytime running lights and muscular bumper make the car look imposing and it will turn heads. The new shape also means more room. The longer wheelbase benefits the front passengers. And the rear bench can been moved forward and backwards by a full 150 millimetres, depending on whether you like more rear legroom or a bigger luggage compartment. The big news is the option of a third-row, although the last row is not really suitable for adults - as in most such cars. In the front, there is generous room, and the seats offer plenty of lateral support. We like the variable trunk, where the load floor can be extended and loaded up with up to 100 kilograms. The power tailgate is a good feature add-on too.

(From the outside, the new CR-V represents a marked improvement over the last generation, with more sculpted lines and horizontal taillights)

Also Read: New-Gen Honda CR-V To Be Launched This Festive Season

‍The interior is full of storage and practical solutions; the driver benefits from a well-positioned gear selector, and the electronic instrumentation offers a techy and futuristic look. It is still unclear what level of equipment we will get here in India. But expect the CR-V to be loaded with safety features as standard, and also offer a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity. The driver's seat is also power adjustable and gets lumbar support.