Honda's supremely popular crossover grows a bit and adopts a slightly less minivan-like look.
By JOSEPH CAPPARELLAWhat It Is: The fifth generation of Honda’s supremely popular CR-V crossover, likely based on the new platform that underpins the recently redesigned Honda Civic. The new CR-V is rumored to grow a bit compared with the current model, with the possible addition of an optional third-row seat to help bridge the gap between it and the significantly larger Pilot. The CR-V also looks to adopt a sportier and more upscale look based on these spy photos, which show a larger, more aggressive front grille along with a longer hood and a less minivan-like stance. The CR-V’s signature vertical taillights are clearly visible, and the headlights look like they’re taken directly from an Acura. We can’t see much of the crossover’s interior, but practicality and spaciousness will surely remain a priority.
Why It Matters: The CR-V has sat atop the growing compact-crossover sales heap for the past several years, but its lead is eroding as new competitors arrive with more-advanced technology features and improved driving dynamics. The Ford Escape and the Toyota RAV4, for instance, are ahead of the CR-V in the sales race so far in 2016. With this redesigned CR-V, Honda surely will be looking to take back its crown, with class-leading fuel-economy figures, tech offerings, interior space, and—if the new Civic’s great chassis is any indication—driving dynamics. It’ll have to beat the Mazda CX-5, our current favorite among small crossovers, in that regard.
Platform: The new Honda Civic’s modular chassis, which will also underpin the next-generation Accord sedan. The current CR-V’s 103.1-inch wheelbase will likely grow, possibly to match the 2016 Civic sedan’s 106.3-inch wheelbase. Also expect changes to the Civic’s basic architecture to accommodate mechanicals for the all-wheel-drive system that will be optional for the CR-V.
Powertrain: With Honda’s push into turbocharged technology, the Civic’s new 174-hp 1.5-liter turbo four will probably be the CR-V’s standard engine. It may be tuned for more emphasis on low-rpm torque for use in the heavier CR-V (the current model’s 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 185 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque). Although the Civic lineup will soon offer a six-speed manual paired with this engine, a continuously variable automatic transmission will likely be the only choice for the CR-V. As before, front-wheel drive will be standard with all-wheel drive available as an option.
Competition: Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester
Estimated Arrival and Price: Look for the new CR-V to arrive sometime in 2017 as a 2018 model. Pricing shouldn’t change much compared with the current CR-V, which starts at $24,645 for a FWD LX and ranges up to $34,295 for a loaded, AWD Touring model, although the possible third-row option could drive the stickers higher for those packages that include it.
Source;
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/2018-honda-cr-v-spied-news
No comments:
Post a Comment