Honda unveils all-new 7-seat diesel CR-V

The game-changer

Seven seats. Diesel engine. These are the two key words that describe the perfect SUV for Filipino families; words that now amply describe the all-new 2018 Honda CR-V. As Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI)’s first ever diesel offering, the fifth-generation CR-V arrives to potentially steal the thunder (and sales) away from lumbering ladder-on-frame SUVs with its exceptional driving performance, all-around riding comfort, bold and sophisticated styling, and premium and upscale interior.

All seven-seater variants of the 2018 CR-V are powered by a 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC turbo diesel engine developed under Earth Dreams technology. Using an aluminum block along with optimized pistons and connecting rods, this engine is light in weight, but heavy in performance. Producing 120hp at 4,000 rpm and 300Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm, this downsized turbo diesel engine is clean, quiet, and efficient. Mated to this engine is a new nine-speed automatic transmission with a push-button Electronic Gear Selector and paddle shifters. The wide gear ratios allow the CR-V to attain low noise levels and high fuel efficiency figures—up to 18.9 km/L based on Honda’s tests.

Meanwhile, Honda retains the services of its 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine exclusively for the sole five-seater variant. This tried-and-tested motor continues to produce 154hp at 6,500 rpm and 189Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. New to this model though is a new Earth Dreams Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for improved fuel efficiency.

The 2018 CR-V rides on an all-new platform to provide a more agile and confident handling. Its wider front and rear track combined with front MacPherson struts and rear multi-link suspension promotes a more responsive turn-in and cornering. An enhanced Real Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system on the top-of-the-line SX variant adds an extra layer of handling prowess by allowing power and torque to be distributed across all four wheels maximizing traction and stability on any road condition.

And to top these chassis improvements, the all-new CR-V’s ground clearance has been raised up as well. The AWD-equipped SX is up to 208mm (making it the highest riding among Honda’s local lineup) while the 2WD models stand at 198mm.

Outside, the new CR-V heads to a fresh new direction with a more aggressive design. Revolving around the design concept of “Modern Functional Dynamic,” the CR-V features a sharp-lined grille that reflects an aggressive, yet sportier look. Over to the side, the wide and muscular fenders are filled by standard 18-inch alloy wheels while at the back, is a tailgate spoiler. All variants have full LED headlights with Guide-Type LED daytime running lights (DRL) with the SX adding High Beam Support (it toggles between low and high beams automatically when driving in the dark). Additionally, the SX gets a panoramic sunroof, power tailgate, and rain-sensing wipers.

Honda’s penchant in creating a “Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum” interior continues with the new CR-V. The bold and sophisticated exterior is complemented by a cockpit that revolves around smart utility. It offers heightened levels of luxury and comfort while offering a true high-tech experience. Filled with upscale features, it offers black leather seating and premium accents for all variants.

Upon entry, the driver is welcomed by a highly informative full-color Thin Film Transistor (TFT) instrument cluster. The driver’s seat on the SX is fitted with an electronic eight-way power adjustment with four-way lumbar support to offer impressive levels of comfort. The two other rows are no less impressive with the second-row seats in the 7-seater variants offering 60/40 split sliding and reclining function for easy access into the third row. Meanwhile, the third row reclines in a 50/50 split. Additionally, independent A/C controls and vents are standard across all rows with the second row getting two USB charging ports located at the center console.

When not ferrying the family, the all-new CR-V also boasts of unparalleled cargo capacity. It can accommodate 472 liters of cargo (522 liters for the five-seater variant) with the third-row seats tumbled and 967 liters with both the second and third rows tumbled down.

Completing the CR-V’s modern and high-tech interior is an impressive infotainment system headlined by a seven-inch touchscreen Display Audio system. Offering intuitive operation, it offers all sorts of multimedia and hands-free functionality along with a multi-view reverse camera with dynamic guidelines. The S and SX variants add standard GPS navigation and additional controls for its dual-zone climate control system.

The 2018 CR-V’s class-leading performance and top-notch packaging is rounded off by unparalleled safety. Across the lineup, it’s equipped with an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold, Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Driver Attention Monitor, Dual SRS airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HAS), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), and a low tire pressure warning system. Additional safety features such as Honda LaneWatch camera, side airbags, curtain airbags, and a Walk Away Auto Lock features are standard on the S and SX variants.

Further cementing the CR-V’s leadership in safety, the SX variant comes standard with Honda SENSING technology. This suite of safety and driver assistive technologies aid the driver to prevent or effectively respond to dangerous driving situations. It includes: Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW).

Starting today, all 36 Honda Car dealerships will start accepting reservations for the all-new 2018 CR-V. The five-seater gasoline variant is readily available now with deliveries for the seven-seater diesel variants starting by the end of September. The all-new CR-V will come in six colors: Passion Red Pearl (new color, SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only); Lunar Silver Metallic (SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT only); Dark Olive Metallic (new color, all variants); White Orchid Pearl (plus P 20,000, all variants); Modern Steel Metallic (all variants); and Crystal Black Pearl (all variants).

The all-new Honda CR-V will carry the following suggested retail prices: 2.0S CVT five-seater (P1,539,000); V Diesel 9AT seven-seater (P1,569,000); S Diesel 9AT seven-seater (P1,759,000); and SX Diesel 9AT AWD seven-Seater (P2,049,000).