Honda has been one of the pioneers in the development of compact SUVs since 1995 and keeps pace with today's trends by introducing the new CR-V. The newcomer looks a bit more playful - the front has sharper lines, and at the back a sharp line of side windows stands out, as well as interesting 3D taillights. The car has remained a recognizable CR-V, but compared to the recently released exclusive and exciting designs of the Kia Sportage, Ford Kuga and Range Rover Evoque, the CR-V looks dull and somewhat disappointing. Koger company executives follow a tactic: "as long as sales are going well, there is no need to change anything fundamentally." Inside, the design of the car's instrument panel is typical of the Honda style - with an accent to the center console where there is an LCD screen, and a high-mounted gearshift lever. The interior has even become more spacious and much quieter than its predecessor. The steering wheel has become extremely "light", which makes it easier to maneuver at low speeds, but provides too little information when driving at normal speeds. The car is equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with 180 hp and 240 Nm of torque, as well as a smaller 2.0-liter petrol engine, but the 1.6 and 2.2-liter diesel engines will undoubtedly receive the most attention. So the new car is a step forward, just won’t that step be too small?
This is my first vehicle. I bought it on the spot ‘cause I needed one urgently. I’m not an admirer of any particular brand however I give the priority to Japanese cars, then – to Korean, in the worst scenario – to Europe’s car manufactures. In principle, everything is OK with CR-V. Here’s my impression after running 6.000 miles. It has enough roomy interior; seats are made of leather combined with alcantara material. Visually I wouldn’t say it looks nice, but it seems to be practical. Boot capacity – 589 litre. Time will show if such trunk size doesn’t disappoint me in summer time. The chassis works fine and quietly. Reliability will be tested only after running 60.000 miles. So far this Toyota hasn’t got any major suspension repairs. It has a 5-speed gearbox, since it’s my first automatic vehicle I have nothing to compare with. As regards fuel economy I think a 6-speed automatic gearbox would be even better. Since it’s almost new, shifting gears is going to be smooth. Of course you can always look for something better, but if not to compare it with other vehicles I say you’ll be satisfied enough. Bearing in mind that this Honda CR-V is a compact SUV with its heavy weight and AWD, I think AWD system is great at aiding accelerating on slick surfaces and keeping a vehicle moving on snowy roads; plus its automatic activation helps to save fuel. Talking about fuel consumption: in the city 30 mpg, whereas on the highway 42 mpg. No doubt to me that with a manual gearbox the situation regarding fuel consumption would be radically improved. Audio system – 7 points out of 10. There’s a sub, plenty of USB ports – no complaints; also a navigation system with a rear backup camera and parking sensor, but what truly gets on my nerves is the beeping sound appearing on snowy days. With Toyota I didn’t have such problem. Since I wanted to buy a minivan with 4x4, now I have one. In narrow city streets no fear to “climb” on the curbs. But the most annoying thing is the driver’s seat – it should be raised to improve the driver’s road visions and it’s difficult for me to find a comfortable position. That’s a very odd manufacturer’s decision for placing the driver’s seat so low. Every time I get a feeling as if I’m driving a sedan or a hatchback, but not SUV. Despite its size and somewhat bulky look, the only comfort is that it is manageable like a sedan.
Performance
Some time ago I had 2.2 L diesel engine (100kw). My decision for the next vehicle was to have something similar, so the current Honda has engine: 2.2 L diesel, power: 110kw. It is common to assume that Honda engines are the best. Time will show. Meanwhile I should say that it doesn’t lack on power. In order not to make a crucial mistake I youtubed some videos about this Honda and its performance in diff kinds of tests. I found out the combination of 2.0L petrol engine with automatic gearbox is a total crap. So I paid extra and got what I have now.
Reliability, running costs
It’s too early to predict the overall running costs but keeping in mind the price to be paid for new accessories it should be more expensive than Toyota. After checking the price for CR-V in the secondary market I haven’t noticed any considerable depreciation. The good combination I guess would be Honda + SUV + diesel. People like such things and it’s better than Dacia + Sedan + 1.4 L petrol engine.
Recommendations to buyers
I’d suggest not buying a vehicle having a petrol engine unless you like to experience an adrenaline rush when overtaking on country roads.
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