Story & photos by Randy S. Peregrino
WHEN the all-new CR-V was finally introduced in the country, it wasn’t just well-received as expected. The latest model also emerged totally overhauled with ground-breaking innovations to relive its hype that was once regarded as a segment breakthrough.
Further, one of this crossover’s anticipated developments was Honda’s first venture into the diesel-propelled powertrain. Since the Japanese automaker has started utilizing forced induction system onto its performance cars, it was no longer a surprise when it also adapted the same method to the new diesel motor series. Tested this month was the tech-packed CR-V SX Diesel 9AT AWD seven-seater in radiant Passion Red Pearl shade.
First thing I noticed was the new front end’s design alignment to Honda’s modern signature styling. With the prominent chrome grille united along the sleek-looking full-LED headlamps, the fascia now emanates the same charisma as with the smaller sibling HR-V. The new bumper with LED fog lamps is now more imposing, thanks to the extended profile and metallic apron trim. Even the equally stunning rear end obtained several changes, such as the fresh set of taillights, power tailgate chrome garnish, rear bumper trims and more suggestive curves. Those matte black finish throughout the bottom panels complement the higher ground clearance and 18-inch, two-toned alloys with 235/60 series tires. Overall, the relatively bigger frame looks more chiseled highlighting more delineation.
The fresh interior layout is definitely one of the breakthroughs. Premium materials are all over the place to satisfy your sophisticated taste. There’s comfy leather-wrapped seats, luxurious trims, plus the panoramic sunroof. But what’s impressive about the new dashboard layout is that, despite the changeover, it’s still as ergonomic as it should be. Even the center console has gone more gadget-friendly with more outlets to offer, including a sliding tray. But don’t worry if you can’t find the gear shifter because Honda decided to automate the shifting part through the nifty electronic gear selector. By the time you get used to it, you’ll be amazed how you simply toggle between reverse and drive buttons through your thumb and index fingers.
Meanwhile, the helm with embedded controls and the digital full-color TFT instrument cluster are similar to the Civic’s. Likewise, the seven-inch touchoperated infotainment makes everything easy, from connectivity, navigation and other functions to displaying clear view from the cameras in different angles. Another notable element is the ample aircon vents for the second and third rows. Aside from the center console, there are more on the ceiling at the back. For a compact crossover, cargo capacity is also one of the vehicle’s high points. By folding all the back benches, you have a total of 967 liters of equivalent space. Even with everything set up, you still have about 150 liters left.
Perhaps considered as the allnew CR-V’s crème de la crème is its advanced turbodiesel mill. While its counterparts are being propelled with bigger displacements, Honda decided to go smaller in favor of fuel efficiency. But it was the manufacturer’s proprietary i-DTEC which utilizes a two-stage turbocharger with VGT, along with other contributing factors, that provided the needed extra boost in order for the motor to produce an exceptional output. Imagine having an available 300 N-m of maximum torque at your disposal just within the lowend engine rpm range. Coupled to a smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission, every push was sublime as the constant upshifting enables the motor to stay within the optimal range. Even so, there are paddle shifters to play around with to stay in certain gears or simply use it for engine braking.
The engine’s gradual kick was very evident while you press the right pedal generating linear acceleration. Not even the additional weight from the AWD drivetrain mechanism plus the bigger tires posed any challenge as the spurt was still unrelenting when summoned. Indeed, the new powertrain demonstrated remarkable fuel efficiency ranging between 11 and 12 km/liter on city driving even while traversing mostly on gridlock-stricken routes.
On the road, the ride absolutely leans toward the comfort side. Safe to say that those high series tires aided the dampers in absorbing road imperfections with less rebounds. The electronically assisted steering was not only light but also responsive on constant turns and curves. While the top spec model has relative higher ground clearance at 208 mm, it didn’t affect the vehicle’s agility at all. There were minimal body rolls and the handling was impressively athletic with all tires getting traction from the adaptable all-wheel-drive system.
On top of the long list of safety and security features, the Honda Sensing technology (exclusive to the top spec variant) is unquestionably one for the books. Noteworthy among these numerous smart functions were the demonstrations of Lane Keep Assist System, Lane Departure Warning, and Collision Mitigation Braking System during freeway dwellings. When lane switching was detected without enabling the turn signals, warning flashed while the steering employed a countering feel. Subsequently, brakes were applied to maintain a safe distance to the vehicle up front. In terms of convenience, aside from the rear camera for backing up, there’s also a clear view displayed on the head unit screen of the blind side every time the right turn signal is engaged.
With bigger dimensions, particularly the longer wheel base offering more leg room, countless security and safety elements, extraordinary enhancements inside and out, plus a myriad of tech features, and the new advanced turbodiesel powertrain, the all-new top-of-the-line CR-V is certainly a total package in the seven-seater compact crossover segment.