2018 Honda CR-V revealed in European specification

February 28, 2018

We’ve seen the US-spec CR-V; now take a look at the UK-spec car. There’s a hybrid on the way too

The new Honda CR-V has been revealed in European specification, with the option of seven seats and a hybrid variant marking a departure from the current car.

On the outside, the CR-V gets a new look, with the family face of other Honda models, but the same traditional SUV shape.

Under the bonnet is either a 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC petrol engine, available with either a manual or CVT gearbox, or a 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine with two electric motors - one for propulsion and one electric generator motor - that was previewed by a prototype version at last year’s Frankfurt motor show.

The gearbox on the hybrid is a new single fixed-gear ratio transmission, which Honda claims ensures smoother torque delivery. A system called i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) manages the powertrain, so drivers don’t have to switch between the three drive modes - EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive. The Atkinson cycle engine relies on the electric motor for low-end torque, but the motor can also assist the 2.0-litre petrol engine when required.

Honda claims that fuel economy for the petrol-only model will be class-leading but stopped short of revealing official figures; these will be released nearer the car’s sale in autumn. The car’s underbelly has been specially sculpted to improve aerodynamics and improve fuel economy.

The brand describes the CR-V’s chassis as "the most sophisticated" one on the model yet, with the main goals being improved ride quality and better capability off-road.

It’s the first time Honda has offered a hybrid on the CR-V, while an optional third row of seats marks another first for the model, with what Honda claims to be class-leading access and leg room for the rearmost seats. Outwardly, it’s grown in every direction to accommodate the extra interior space. Official dimensions are as yet unconfirmed by Honda, though.

The car’s ground clearance grows to as much as 208mm for four-wheel-drive petrol cars, contributing to what Honda claims will be true off-road potential.

Tech highlights on the new CR-V include two 7.0in displays - one in place of traditional dials and the other serving as the main infotainment display. A powered tailgate also features, with a system that prevents the door from scraping low ceilings.

Prices are expected to rise, given the model’s size increase over its predecessor, meaning a higher entry point than the current car’s £23,475. Deliveries for the petrol CR-V will start in autumn, while the hybrid arrives in 2019. Rivals will include smaller SUVs such as the Volkswagen Tiguan and Nissan Qashqai, as well as larger offerings including the Nissan X-Trail and Ford Kuga.

Sales of the CR-V have slowed in recent years, with Honda shifting around 13,000 last year. This is still double the volume of HR-Vs sold and was Honda’s second top seller in the UK in 2015 after the Jazz. It remains one of the brand’s top sellers, though, and the newer, larger version looks to build on this.