Story & photos by Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes
DIESEL engines have several advantages over other internal combustion engines because they use higher energy density with smaller fuel volume.
They benefit from higher thermodynamic efficiency and have no air-intake restrictions. They don’t have high-voltage electrical ignition systems, which then results to high reliability and easy adaptation to humid environments—not to mention they use cheaper but of quality fuel in the market and many more others. Now, the all-new Honda CR-V gets to enjoy all these.
Recently, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. (HCPI) introduced the much-anticipated 2017 CR-V. The all-new CRV, which is a seven-seater sport-utility vehicle (SUV), is the first-ever diesel model in Honda’s local lineup. The fifth-generation CR-V is now designed with a new and efficient diesel engine complemented by a bold and sophisticated exterior styling that matches its premium and comfortable interior—all these, with the aim to provide consumers more enhanced drivability and ride quality.
To further demonstrate this objective, the fresh Japanese stunner is offered in three diesel variants—(SX Diesel 9AT All-Wheel-Drive [AWD] S Diesel 9AT and V Diesel 9AT) and a five-seater gasoline variant (2.0S CVT).
“We are confident with our diesel engines. They are very powerful and delivers a lot of torque,” newly appointed HCPI president Noriyuki Takakura asserted during an interview.
“I’m sure, Filipinos will love this vehicle,” he added.
According to him, this will give other competitors a good fight since it is competitively positioned in the market.
Touted as an all-around comfortable SUV, the variants of this “soon to be blockbuster” are powered by a fuel efficient 1.6-liter DOHC i-DTEC Diesel Turbo engine developed under Earth Dreams Technology that pushes a maximum power of 120PS at 4,000rpm and peak torque of 300Nm at 2,000rpm. The downsized diesel turbo engine is mated to a new nine-speed Automatic Transmission with Electronic Gear Selector and Paddle Shifters that produces a powerful yet cleaner and more efficient output.
Meanwhile, with the aim to allot gasoline enthusiasts variants they could also take delight with, Honda preserved its 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine offering to the local market which is exclusively for the five-seater variant only. The 2.0-liter SOHC i-VTEC engine delivers a maximum output of 154PS at 6,500rpm and peak torque of 189Nm at 4,300rpm and is mated to a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) also developed under Earth Dreams Technology.
Aside from the engine upgrades, its chassis was also re-engineered to be able to make it more agile and versatile. Its wider front and rear track combined with front MacPherson strut and rear multilink suspension promotes a more responsive turn in and cornering. While an enhanced real time AWD system—available for the top-of-the-line SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant—allows the power and torque to be distributed across all four wheels, giving the driver maximum traction and stability on any terrain.
Height-wise, ground clearance was raised to 208mm for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant, while other variants stand at 198mm, giving this SUV superior versatility and all-weather confidence and control perfect for our roads.
At the onset, the redesigned exterior of this SUV beauty comes with a more sporty and aggressive panache that would meet the aesthetic demands of the Filipino taste. The sharp-lined front grille radiates a sportier look of which is further complemented by signature Honda Full LED headlights. With this, a feeling of dominance is further asserted while on the road. The wider squat stance and bulkier fenders, tailgate spoiler and headlight integrated Guide Type LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) all make this CR-V exude that sophisticated yet rugged appeal fit for the modern man.
A panoramic sunroof, power tailgate and auto rain sensing wipers are exclusively available to the SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant, while 18-inch Aluminum Alloy Wheels for the same variant and the S Diesel 9AT, and 2.0S CVT variants caps off the icing on the cake.
Inside, the new CR-V emanates the same bold look as with its exteriors with a smart utility design with seven seats, comfortable fit and high-tech intuitive controls. Posh features, black-leather trims and premium accents for all variants also give off that luxury feel.
The driver seat of the top-of-the-line variant (SX Diesel 9AT AWD) is fitted with an Electronic eight-way power adjustment with four-way power Lumbar support that gives the most comfortable seat configuration for every driver. The second row seats feature a 60:40 split rear seat configuration that slides and recline for an easy ingress and egress of the passengers at the third row.
The flexible seat configuration can accommodate 472 liters of cargo space with the third row seats tumbled and 967 liters of cargo space with both the second and third row down. While the 2.0S CVT variant, on the other hand, can comfortably accommodate five passengers with 522 liters of cargo space behind the rear seats.
Safety-wise, driver and passenger’s safety remains a top priority as the All-New CR-V is equipped with electronic parking brake with auto brake hold, agile handling assist, driver attention monitor, driver and passenger airbags, vehicle stability assist, hill start assist, antilock braking system with electronic brake distribution, emergency stop signal, multiview reverse camera with dynamic guidelines and low tire pressure warning system.
The SX Diesel 9AT AWD variant is equipped with a state-of-the-art Honda Sensing technology.
The colors available for the all-new Honda CR-V SX Diesel 9AT AWD and S Diesel 9AT are Passion Red Pearl and Lunar Silver Metallic. While the Dark Olive Metallic, White Orchid Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl are offered in all variants.
Suggested retail prices are P2.049 million for the SX Diesel 9AT AWD (seven seater); P1.759 million for the S Diesel 9AT (seven seater); P1.569 million for the V Diesel 9AT (seven seater); and P1.539 million for the 2.0S CVT (five seater).
Image credits: Ronald Rey M. de los Reyes