2022 Honda CR-V receives minor updates | Latest Review

The Honda CR-V is well known and loved in South Africa and was one of the pioneers of the local compact SUV segment when it was launched here more than 20 years ago. To ensure that the CR-V remains modern and up to date, Honda have treated the CR-V to a number of interior and exterior updates.

The new CR-V range now consists of four models offering two different engine options and varying levels of specification. The specification of the 1.5T Executive has been refined and now offers front-wheel drive, while still benefitting  from the all-inclusive strategy that Honda has become renowned for.

Subtle design changes ensure a more modern look and that the CR-V remains a real head turner. Styling remains unmistakably Honda and ensures an air of boldness, sensibility and quality. The most prominent styling change are the redesigned front and rear bumpers, which significantly enhance the already bold and aggressive look.

The front end continues to be dominated by a broad-barred grille which is framed by curved, slimline headlights that incorporate daytime running lights. Dual air intakes featuring a dark mesh finish divide the colour coded bumper while a metallic scuff plate reinforces the CR-Vs SUV identity. The side profile is dominated by a smooth roofline and integrated roof rails, a curved waistline and a raked rear screen.

Inverted rear LED taillight clusters are linked by a chromed garnish strip and positioned high up on the rear hatch, while extending all the way to bumper level. 1.5T models receive a sporty touch in the form of twin exhausts, housed within the rear scuff plate. Contrasting protective cladding on the lower half of the body and pronounced wheel arch extensions contribute to enhanced visual appeal as do the larger 19-inch alloy wheels now fitted to the top of the range 1.5T Exclusive model.

Inside story

The interior is finished with high-quality materials and finishes, soft-touch surfaces, matt alloy accents and attractive stitching to create an upmarket environment that is made even more attractive by a user friendly layout and ample space for all occupants.

One of the major highlights is the full-colour TFT drive information interface which is located in a dedicated binnacle ahead of the driver and which houses a graph-type rev counter and digital speedometer. Depending on the model, a centrally located five-inch or seven-inch display provides user friendly access to the CR-Vs infotainment system above the controls for the dual-zone climate control system which is located in the centre stack.

Class leading front and rear legroom remains and the rear bench seat features a fold down armrest which can split in a 60:40 fashion for loading of bulky items. Luggage space measures an impressive 522 litres or 1 084 litres with the seats folded down.

Under the bonnet

The Honda CR-V is now offered with two engine options. Honda’s familiar 2.0 litre four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine features variable valve timing and programmed fuel injection which results in a power output of 113kW at 6 500rpm and 189Nm at 4300rpm. Honda claim that this engine will use 7,3 litres per 100km.
This engine is paired with a Continously Variable Transmission with G-Shift control logic that transfers power to the front wheels. This technology combines the convenience of an automatic gearbox with drive ratios optimised for the prevailing driving circumstances as well as pre-set steps for manual selection.
The 1.5-litre turbo powerplant features direct fuel injection and variable valve timing to deliver 140kW at 5600rpm and 240Nm between 2000 and 5000rpm. A CVT transmission handles the power transfer and cog swapping.

Underpinnings

The body structure of the CR-V is constructed using Honda’s Advanced Compatability Engineering body structure, which ensures the highest level of collision safety. The body rides on a McPherson strut suspension with multilink rear configuration.

Model range and specification

Safety features including everything from dual front and side airbags, curtain airbags, Isofix child seat anchor points to ABS , EBD, Agile Handling Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist and Hill Start Assist systems. Top of the range Executive models are offered with Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist Systems and a comprehensive array of active safety systems.
Known as Honda Sensing, these systems include Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed following and Lane Keeping Assist.
The model range is made up four models with the choice of two engines and four specification levels including 2.0L FWD Comfort CVT, 2.0L FWD Elegance CVT, 1.5T FWD Executive CVT and 2.0L FWD Exclusive CVT derivatives.