The new Honda CR-V makes its South African début at Auto Africa, where it vies for attention with a humanoid robot, of all things. But whereas Asimo is a one-off showpiece and not for sale, the new CR-V will reach local showrooms early next year.
By Gareth Dean
As transfixed as I was trying to convince myself that Honda’s Asimo wasn’t merely a midget in a costume, but an amazing robot that climb stairs (among other things), I managed to tear myself away from the spectacle to check out the other star of the Japanese manufacturer’s stand – the third generation CR-V. Certainly, given the popularity of the CR-V’s previous incarnations, this new model has something of a following to appease and a strong reputation to uphold.
The new CR-V certainly looks more imposing than it’s predecessors, with a sweeping roof line, a sharp crease running down the flanks into XC90-like rear-quarters and a distinctive nose with prominent projector-style headlamps and a split level grille. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels and matt black lower cladding add a slightly more rugged edge to the vehicle’s svelte lines. A wider stance hints at Honda’s claims of the CR-V offering “more car-like handling” while ABS with EBD, speed sensitive power steering and a stiffer body are said to contribute to a more agile drive.
The interior will not set pulses racing in the styling stakes, but it is, as can be said of most Honda cabins, solid and practical. A higher seating position and larger seats, combined with the gearlever’s location at the base of the fascia, give the cabin a more open-plan feel. Interior room is similar to that of the current model, but with the spare wheel moving beneath the luggage compartment and the inclusion of split rear seating with fore and aft adjustment, there is potential for more cargo space or legroom.
In terms of safety equipment, all models have Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) features such as a polygonal frontal frame structure, which ensures improved crash energy dissipation, and dual stage SRS front airbags. The RVSi models boast additional active headrests, full-length curtain airbags and side airbags for front occupants.
The range is powered a new 2,0-litre i-VTEC petrol unit, which delivers 110 kW and 192 N.m of torque, and Honda claims the powerplant reduces its fuel consumption by delaying intake valve closure during low load driving conditions. In terms of performance, the new CRV reportedly clocks a 0-100 km/h time of 10,2 secs (for the six speed manual) and 12,1 secs for the five speed automatic. Furthermore, the weight of the CR-V’s four-wheel drive system has apparently been reduced and when compared with its predecessor, the transmission transfers 20 per cent more torque to the rear wheels when cornering on slippery surfaces, a Honda spokesman said.
The new CR-V will be launched in the South African market early next year with prices ranging from R268 900 for the RVi specification and R309 500 for the flagship RVSi. Prices will include a five year/100 000 km service plan from Honda SA.
