Honda's CR-V remains the compact SUV class leader

By Peter A.  Hubbard


MotorwayAmerica.com

(March 13, 2018) When your vehicle actually invented its classification, it typically has a target on its back — and it's the one every other automaker benchmarks.  So you have no choice but to keep moving and keep improving. 

Such is the case for the cuddly little Honda CR-V, which first burst onto the automotive landscape some 20 years ago — way back in February 1997 — becoming the first compact SUV. 

CR-V, which is company shorthand for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” was based on the Civic platform of that era, and was the first to feature front-wheel-drive, as opposed to rear-wheel drive like the Broncos, Explorers, Blazers, Wranglers, 4Runners and Pathfinders of the time.   

Today, with the proliferation of compact AWD and front-wheel drive compact models, it’s now considered a crossover rather than a true SUV. 

Taking a closer look, the CR-V has been totally revamped for 2017, further polishing a formula of practicality, efficiency, refinement and value that has helped it maintain it’s status as the best-selling crossover over the past 20 years.

Speaking of sales, the Honda CR-V was the bestselling crossover in the U.S. again last year

Boomers and Millennials alike seem to appreciate the spacious cabin and the higher ride it offers, as well as the improvements in fuel economy that makes it competitive with most cars on the road.



POWERTRAIN

Now in its fifth generation, Honda's 5-passenger compact crossover arrives with a new turbo engine — a first for the CR-V series — that combines a bit more power while sipping gasoline at the rate of just 34 mpg, according to EPA estimates. The CR-V now offers two means of motivation — the new 190-hp 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that delivers 179 lb-ft of torque @ 2000 rpm.  The other is the carryover 184-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder that powers base LX models used in the rest of the lineup.



While most folks equate turbo-charging with extra speed, the four horsepower difference separating the two engines is minuscule, so the added benefit comes from better fuel economy numbers — not significantly better power gains.  The turbo does inject its power with immediacy, making the engine feel much bigger than its minuscule 1.5 liters would indicate. 



It’s mated to one of the better continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVT) on the market, and seamlessly kicks down through the gears when pressed into passing mode. It also feels more dynamic when cornering. But made no mistake this is no “performance” crossover.  Rather, the CR-V continues to excel as a comfortable and competent commuter. City dwellers will still appreciate its manageable size and brake-hold feature, making it easy to park in maneuver in urban areas.  Meanwhile, country folks who do more highway driving will appreciate its quiet and supple ride.



EXTERIOR



The body of the Honda CR-V was totally re-sculpted for 2017, giving it a more youthful and athletic appearance. It’s slightly longer, wider and taller. With the high arching taillights framing the rear glass, it could be mistaken for a baby Volvo — or at least a Volvo’s first cousin. And that’s a good thing.

In front, subtle ridges on the outer edges of the hood contribute to the car’s buff look – as though it’s been making regular trips to the gym.  

The stance is also noticeably higher, provide more ground clearance. It improves from 6.3 inches to 6.7 inches for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) models, from 7.8 up to 8.2 inches for all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions.



This is especially good news for northern CR-V owners, who spend their winters contending with snow storms and foul weather. To our eyes, the latest design is just what the CR-V needed, making it appear less bulbous in back, more substantial and tougher — like it’s ready for a good fight.

INTERIOR



The interior space has also been greatly improved, an impressive feat given that the outgoing model was already among the most spacious in the compact class. In addition to its growth, this Honda SUV's space is easier to utilize. The 60/40-split rear seats fold with a simple pull of a lever, and the rear cargo area has a 2-tier setup in which the floor can be flat or set lower to keep objects secure.

EX and above models have a pair of useful rear USB ports to keep mobile devices juiced. Up front is the CR-V's familiar and enviable seating position that is comfortable and provides a good view out.

 The marginal exterior growth magically multiplies its interior space. Cargo space behind the rear seat now approaches 40 cubic feet, or nearly 76 with seats folded. Rear legroom increases to a whopping 40.4 inches.



Inside, you’ll find a slew of active safety features.  Honda Sensing bundles potentially life-saving, accident-avoiding features such as collision-avoidance braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring (which replaces the LaneWatch system). The safety suite is standard on all CR-V trims EX and up.  


DRIVABILITY

The latest CR-V provides the kind of nimble handling and comfortable driving experience that Honda CR-V owners have come to expect from this capable little daily driver. The new turbo engine is also a welcome addition.  While it may not outrun a Mazda CX-5 in the 0-60 dash, it won’t embarrass you, either.  It slices through traffic with ease and gets you to your destination without jiggling your fillings loose, or breaking the eggs hiding in your grocery bag.

CONCLUSION



So, if you're looking for a simple, uncomplicated compact SUV that has built a solid reputation for reliability, practicality and value, the Honda CR-V should fit you like a glove. It also might surprise you with its laundry list of advanced safety systems, tech features and improved amount of interior space.

While not exactly designed for the track, or capable of towing excessive loads, a trailer hitch can can tow up to 1,500 pounds. And if you just don't like turbo engines, the only non-turbo CR-V is a base model with fewer bells and whistles.


If you’re checking off boxes, the new Honda CR-V may not rank first in all the categories, but it’s certainly the easiest compact SUV to recommend to the broadest spectrum of shoppers. In a segment that includes such mainstays as the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and Nissan Rogue, the latest CR-V manages — like cream on fresh dairy farm milk — to maintain its place at the top.