Honda beefs up 2005 CR-V

Just when we thought that Honda’s omnipresent CR-V has given its all, along comes the 2005 model that not only brings with it the usual litany of exterior upgrades, but also a new, more powerful engine to allow the compact SUV veteran to take the fight to its bigger-engined rivals like the 2.3-liter Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute, the 2.4-liter Mitsubishi Outlander and the 2.5-liter Nissan X-Trail.

The ’05 CR-V, which still comes with the 2.0-liter i-VTEC motor for the entry-level models, now offers a more powerful and torquier 2.4-liter variant — also with i-VTEC variable valve timing — to bring its power output from the 2.0’s 150ps at 6500rpm to 160ps at a more accessible 5500rpm. Torque also makes a jump from 19.4 kg-m at 4000rpm to 22.2 kg-m at a surprisingly higher 4500 rpm. All of which make the 2.4-liter CR-V the most powerful among the aforementioned models.

Higher specs are not reserved for the powerplant alone. The 4-speed automatic of the 2.0-liter model is swapped for a class-exclusive 5-speed automatic in the 2.4. Both engines are also available with a 5-speed manual transmission. Honda also limited the availability of its improved and faster-acting Real-Time 4WD system to the 2.4 model, which means that all 2.0 CR-Vs now come in 2WD only.

Other spec upgrades include an upsized wheel-and-tire combo from the previous 15-incher to a more competitive 215/65R-16 tire size on stylish new 6.5x16-inch alloy wheels.

On the aesthetics side, a chrome front grille and quad clear-lens headlamps give the 2005 CR-V a look reminiscent of the Mercedes M-class SUV. Body-colored bumpers and side mirrors, new taillights, new-design foglamps, a hard spare tire cover, and chrome door handles round out the new-appearance package.

Inside, the CR-V boasts a higher level of standard equipment. The audio system now features a 6-CD stereo with MP3-playing capabilities. The digital trip display includes self-illuminating meter with fuel consumption gauge. The interior has been significantly enhanced for higher luxury, comfort and convenience. New touches include enlarged climate control switches, chrome appliqués, door lining with book storage, and new metallic panel. All automatic transmission models also now boast a redesigned A/T shift lever for a more comfortable grip. Lastly, the rear seat headrests have a new shape that minimizes obstruction of the rearward vision. (Three-row versions come only with the 2.0 2WD model.)

Safety features include Honda’s G-CON technology which allows the CR-V to meet the world’s highest collision safety standards, dual airbags, seatbelt pretensioners with load limiter, ABS and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution). It also complies with the stringent EURO4 emissions standards.

New 2WD CR-Vs come in Night Hawk Black, Taffeta White, Satin Silver, Red Rock Pearl, and Shore Mist. The 4WD variants come in Jade Green, Silver Stone and Pearl White Mica.

The prices of the 2005 CR-V start at P1,040,000 for the 2.0 2WD M/T model (add P50,000 for an automatic; add P20,000 for a 3rd-row seat) and top out at P1,290,000 for the 2.4-liter 4WD model with automatic. (Add P15,000 for the Pearl White Mica model.)