Earlier this month, Honda Automobile (Thailand) teased us with news of an upcoming new-generation CR-V that would hit the region real soon. Beyond being an all-new iteration, the news bit also mentioned that Honda would bring in its vaunted diesel motors for the very first time to Asia. Well, the time has come; Honda Thailand has just revealed the fifth-generation Honda CR-V Diesel.
Launched late last year in the United States, the Mk V Comfortable Runabout Vehicle boasts an evolutionary design that takes its cue from the previous gen’s flanks. This one looks more upscale, with touches like a sharper-cut grille, LED headlamps, daytime running lights, and taillights. These are complemented by smart features like a power tailgate with height setting, and foldable passenger seats.
The cool new toys, which help make life easier and more versatile, highlight the more spacious cabin. Honda claims that there is more room for people are cargo, even pegging the Thai-spec CR-V as a 7-seater. Yes, three rows of seats can now fit into the space, along with goodies like a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, power-adjustable driver’s seat, i-dual-zone automatic climate control, and a large TFT meter with multi-information display that lets drivers in on various vehicle functions.
Apart from the larger interior room, what’s truly new for Honda is what\s under the sleek hood. The fifth-gen Honda CR-V will be available in either 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder gasoline dishing out 173hp and 224Nm, paired with Earth Dreams Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), or the new-to-Asia 1.6-liter i-DTEC four-cylinder diesel turbo mill that puts out 160hp and a healthy 350Nm of torque. The new motor is mated to an equally fresh Shift-by-Wire 9-speed automatic gearbox. Each engine-tranny combo, particularly the diesel, promises brisk yet efficient performance.
The all-new Honda CR-V naturally comes with Honda’s suite of safety systems. Besides the usual SRS airbags and stability control, this one receives high-tech goodies such as Electric Parking Brake with Auto Hold, LaneWatch, Agile Handling Assist, and Driver Attention Monitor. All these are designed to provide a safe and comfortable journey.
The all-new Honda CR-V will be available in Honda Thailand showrooms beginning this April. The diesel variant will follow in May.
