Still in the first flush of youth, Honda has taken the scalpel to its CR-V and added some impressive new features.
Honda’s mid-sized take on the SUV segment is still relatively young but that hasn’t stopped the Japanese firm taking a scalpel to it inside and out – in fact it’s sufficiently comprehensive that you could almost call it version 2.0.
The popular 1.6-litre diesel option is now available in 158bhp format as well as the original 119bhp guise and there’s the option of a new nine-speed automatic transmission to go with it.
The nose has been updated with a new look and there’s changes on the inside too including a new infotainment system, more sound-proofing and safety systems. Even the suspension and steering have been revised.
The last CR-V delivered a distinctive straight-edged look where most of its rivals went for elaborate curves, and the revised version offers more of the same.
The biggest change is at the front where there’s now a broad, sweeping line of chrome effect that runs between the large headlights, and it’s an effective change.
Image hasn’t been much of a problem for the CR-V; Honda claims it was the world’s best-selling SUV in 2014, and its combination of space, efficiency and reliability has made it an understandable favourite. Expect more of the same from this new one.
More bold claims from Honda include the largest boot in the compact SUV segment with 1,648 litres and opening the tailgate reveals the cavernous area.
There’s an easy release for the back seats too and you can tilt the bases to make a flat floor. In the front there’s a good cubby between the seats although the glovebox and door bins are relatively modest.
Passengers will have nothing to grumble about however; there’s stacks of space front and rear, even with the full-length sunroof fitted.
The mildly-facelifted fascia has chrome-effect inlay across its width and better materials in places which help to lift the quality, while the standard-fit infotainment system is easy to use.
It’s the combination of the new engine and gearbox that really impresses. Rather than switch up and down ratios too often the nine-speed auto helps to keep the 1.6-litre diesel in the torque band and it dishes out smooth and swift acceleration too. There’s a little bit of noise higher in the rev range but acceptably so for an engine of this capacity and performance.
The ride and handling are very impressive too. Lumps and bumps are soaked up remarkably well yet it clings on gamely through the bends with plenty of grip and very little in the way of bodyroll. It’s very capable rather than thrilling but few SUV drivers will ever get close to its limits.
Prices are yet to be confirmed but expect only a slight increase over the outgoing model, which means good value. Standard equipment on all models includes the new infotainment system including DAB radio, climate control, City Brake Assist, Bluetooth connectivity and 17in alloy wheels.
The CR-V is a near-perfect family wagon; rear seat space is sufficient even for the lankiest of teenagers and the standard infotainment system should keep them quiet for a while at least.
Drop the seats and you have a very practical load carrier, while the good refinement and smooth powertrain means it can handle regular long distance journeys too.
Facts & figures
Model: Honda CR-V 1.6 i-DTEC EX
Price: £34,000 (est)
Engine: 1.6-litre diesel unit producing 158bhp and 258lb/ft of torque
Performance: 0-62mph in 10.7 seconds
Economy: 46.1mpg combined
CO2 rating: 134g/km