Back in 1997, the Filipino motorist only knew a few types of vehicles: the sedan, the Asian Utility Vehicle (AUV) , such as the Isuzu Highlander and Toyota Tamaraw FX, and the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV), like the Mitsubishi Pajero and Nissan Patrol. Then something happened that changed the motoring landscape forever—the entry of the car-based SUV.
This came in the form of the first-generation Honda CR-V. Based on the Honda Civic, the Comfortable Runabout Vehicle combined the handling and driving ease of a car with the space, versatility, and all-weather capability of an SUV. Moreover, it offered the latter in an easy-to-handle “bite-sized” platform that didn’t make you feel like you were driving a tank. And the rest, as they say, is automotive history.
Fast-forward twenty years later and the fifth-generation Honda CR-V enters the Philippine market, once again looking to redefine the segment with its combination of upscale features, bold styling, and well-rounded capabilities. The 2018 Honda CR-V will now be offered with a 7-seat, diesel configuration with a class-leading 9-speed automatic gearbox.
Yes, that’s nine forward gears to take care of transmitting power to either the front or all four drive wheels, depending on the variant. Not only will it have more gears than your average SUV, it will likewise feature a unique Electronic Gear Selector that allows drivers to choose gears with the push of a button or via paddle shifters.
Apart from the convenient and innovative transmission, the all-new Honda CR-V will be the first Philippine-spec Honda to come with an oil burner. This one gets a compact yet powerful 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC four-cylinder engine that packs 120hp and 300Nm of torque. Those that prefer gasoline for fuel can opt for the 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-pot with 154hp and 189Nm of torque. This mil will be paired with Honda’s Earth Dreams Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
The potent yet efficient diesel and 9-speed combo can also be fitted with Honda’s Real-Time All-Wheel Drive in the top-spec SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant. This gives owners all-weather capability, matched with an extra 10mm of ground clearance (pegged at 208mm). This, together with the 7-seat configuration, makes the new CR-V a true all-rounder in compact form.
Speaking of form the fifth-generation CR-V new boasts bolder styling, with its Modern Functional Dynamic design language. This translates to more muscular lines, a shaper grille flanked by new LED headlamps with Guide Type Daytime Running Lights and High Beam Support, mild fender flaring, and a tailgate spoiler that give the CUV a more aggressive stance.
The interior, meanwhile gets a more premium vibe with available leather seating surfaces, an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat with 4-way power lumbar support, a TFT instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen with Multi-view reverse camera with guidelines, and navigation system on top-spec models. The 50:50 third row seats even feature their own aircon vents and controls.
While the new Honda CR-V may be packed with seating for seven, cargo carrying capacity hasn’t been forgotten. Around 472L of groceries and gear can be stowed in the rear with the third row folded, while 967L can be accommodated with the second and third row stowed. The 5-seater CR-V, on the other hand, can haul 522L worth of cargo behind the second row.
The latest Honda CR-V is likewise filled to the brim with a host of safety features. These include SRS airbags (front, side, and curtain), Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold, Agile Handling Assist, Driver Attention Monitor, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, Low Tire Pressure Monitor, LaneWatch Camera, and Walk Away Auto Lock.
Higher spec variants will likewise receive Honda’s SENSING safety suite. This includes goodies such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Low Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Forward Colision Warning.
The all-new, 2018 Honda CR-V will come in six colors, including two new shades of Dark Olive Metallic and Passion Red Pearl (exclusively for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT variants). It will be available in the following variants and prices:
2.0S CVT 5-Seater: P1,539,000
V Diesel 9AT 7-Seater: P1,569,000
S Dieel 9AT 7-Seater: P1,759,000
SX Diesel 9AT 7-Seater: P2,049,000
All Honda Cars Philippines showrooms are now accepting reservations. The 5-seat variant is readily available, while the 7-seater models will arrive by the end of September.
