EVER since the term “crossover” was coined, it has served as the magic word for car manufacturers, most of whom are constantly strategizing in the hope of delivering the perfect crossover vehicle and keeping abreast of what is arguably the most competitive automotive segment in the market today.
Before proceeding, it is important to first understand what “crossover” really means. Motoring pundits define it as a compact or midsized SUV, with a passenger-car (unibody) structure.
The current Honda CR-V is a perfect example.
When the first-generation CR-V was introduced by Honda in the late ’90s, it didn’t only achieve immediate sales success but it also dominated the entire market as well. Undeniably, succeeding generations have also shown what it takes to be the best compact SUV.
For example, the current CR-V boasts of subtle changes which include the split grille (both chromed upper and honeycomb), new bumpers (front and rear), its lower back lines, integrated stereo unit with an integrated central navigation knob, and its new 17-inch alloy wheels, which are practically designed to bring out a tougher image and distinct appeal.
Inside, the vehicle strikes a balanced design that exudes an appealing craftsmanship to everyone. The dashboard is perfectly executed; it has a striking high-performance meter cluster with metal dials, white LED, and cool blue illumination that provides the driver with information and fuel-efficiency figures.
Comfort is also one of the CR-V’s strengths. Drivers will find that all controls are within easy reach and the front seat has a foldaway armrest that is useful for long tiring drives. Space is also not an issue as this writer once put two large travel bags in front and the area wasn’t cramped at all—there was even room to spare. Passengers, who took a ride with this writer during a recent trip to Baguio, have also commented that they felt like they were taking a flight in business class as they found both legroom and headroom quite generous.
Safety, one of Honda’s main priorities, has also been more than satisfactorily addressed in the CR-V with active safety features such as ABS and VSA, as well as passive safety features such as G-Force control technology. Moreover, a keyless entry system with an immobilizer and a security alarm guard against unauthorized use of the vehicle. It also has dual front and side airbags, EBD, rear parking sensor, and adjustable standard three-point seatbelts.
The CR-V’s decent steering and tight turning radius (about 5.5 meters) makes the vehicle more pleasurable. You don’t have to sweat like a pig when maneuvering in a packed parking lot. Handling and ride characteristics are excellent owing to the MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar in the front and reactive link double wishbones with stabilizer bar in the rear.
The engine is the same 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC that produces 170 ps at 5,800 rpm and torque of 22.2 kg-m at 4,200 rpm. Known for its smoothness and refinement, the engine allows the CR-V to be light on its feet and accelerate to 100 kph in just 10 seconds. As a bonus to outdoorsmen, the vehicle is fitted with Honda’s original Realtime 4WD system, which supplies front-wheel-drive operation in ordinary conditions, switching to 4WD on demand depending on driving conditions.
When driving at night, the high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps with auto-leveling provide maximum lighting power. With the auto-leveling function, you won’t lose sight of the road even when going uphill.
Priced at P1.545 million, the Honda CR-V remains one of the Philippines’ favorite compact crossover SUVs.
