Honda Details European 2012 CR-V

Honda is moving forward with presentation of the Euro-spec CR-V crossover. Obviously, the car is very familiar to us, and this is mainly because it’s already been available in the States since last year. However, the European CR-V has a different set of bumper, which we actually prefer. It also previews the car that will be available in Asia and Australia.

Getting back the ‘old’ continent, here the CR-V will replace the model that’s been sitting on dealers’ lots since 2007 (facelift in 2009). Interested buyers can expect to see it arriving in the early part of November.

New photos of the 2012 CR-V were just released, together with a walkaround video. Despite its funky exterior, the crossover is very versatile inside. Photos show that it can take two mountain bikes standing upright inside the boot with the seats folded flat.

Source;
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/honda-details-european-2012-cr-v-photo-gallery-video-47650.html

Below is from www.honestjohn.co.uk for spec's;


It looks bigger but at 4,570mm long and 1,650mm high the new CR-V is 30mm lower and 5mm shorter than the previous CR-V.

Volume production at Swindon starts mid August 2012 and there will eventually be a choice of seven drivetrain combinations:

A manual or automatic 2.2iDTEC four wheel drive.
A manual or automatic 2.0iVTEC four wheel drive.
A manual or automatic 2.0iVTEC two-wheel drive.
And a manual 1.6iDTEC two-wheel drive.

The first four go on sale from Autumn 2012, the two-wheel drive petrol from early 2013 and the two wheel drive 1.6 diesel from mid 2013.

Over the years, the Honda CR-V has morphed from the family funwagon we first saw in 1997. That was 6 months ahead of the first Land Rover Freelander, but 3 years behind the first Toyota RAV-4 and 6 years behind the car that started it all: the 1991 Vauxhall Frontera.

The second generation CR-V from 2001 shared some of the features of the first, including a lift-up rear window, side-hinged tailgate and walk-through cabin (assuming you went for the auto that had a column shift).

But neither first nor second generation CR-V had what a keen driver would call ‘handling’. That came with the third generation CR-V that soundly thrashed the contemporary Toyota RAV-4 in that department. I had one for 6 months and it not only handled almost as well as a Mazda CX-7, it was the most comfortable car I had ever driven. And, manual or automatic, it still had a walk-through cab, though no between seats access to the rear.

And, though very practical, it had stopped being a ‘Multi Activity Vehicle’, as suitable for surfing as for shopping. It had become a luxurious ‘Sport Utility Vehicle’.

The new CR-V takes that a stage further. It is even more car-like, modelled more like a junior Lexus RX than a LandRover Freelander.

In marketing terms, Honda sees it sitting above the Hyundai ix35, KIA Sportage, Land Rover Freelander and Toyota RAV-4, equal to a VW Tiguan, and nipping at the heels of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3.

Expect a decently equipped new 4WD CR-V to start at over £25,000 and top out at about £35,000.

Launch engines are the 2.2iDTEC with 150PS and 350NM torque. The manual with idle stop emits 149g/km CO2, same as a BMW X3 2.0 diesel, but the auto chucks out 174g/km, which is quite a lot more than the X3 auto.

The 2.0iVTEC now offers 155PS and 192Nm torque. It emits 173g/km in manual form with idle stop and 175g/km as an auto. But in 2WD manual form emissions drop to 168g/km.

It has to be emphasised that Honda is probably the most ‘honest’ manufacturer over ‘official’ emissions and CO2 outputs so these figures are probably achievable by real drivers.

The 4WD system is different from before. Instead of having dual pump system that engages 4WD when it is needed, it now has a single hydraulic pump and the car sets off in 4WD, ‘relaxing’ to 2WD when the system detects it isn’t needed.

With the rear seats folded flat, the boot capacity of the CR-V has grown by 148 litres to 1,648 litres. If the space saver spare wheel is specified, 147 litres to 1,669 litres and with the seats folded up, the boot capacity is 589 litres. The load length has been increased by 140mm to 1,570mm, while the height of the load lip has been reduced by 25mm to make it easier to load heavy or awkward items. The boot of the CR-V can now accommodate two mountain bikes or four sets of golf clubs.

The next generation Motion Adaptive electric power steering system (MA-EPS) has been refined to combine easy manoeuvrability with increased feedback and response at higher velocity. This sophisticated new system also works with the standard Advanced Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system to detect instability in slippery road conditions and automatically initiates steering inputs that prompt the driver to steer in the correct direction.

The MA-EPS system also has efficiency benefits. It’s simple and compact and unlike a conventional hydraulic pump power steering system, it does not draw continuous power from the engine, helping to reduce fuel consumption.

There’s also a range of electronic systems designed to make driving both easier and safer including Hill Start Assist (HSA) which is standard across the range and stops the vehicle rolling backwards during hill starts.  Hill Descent Control (HDC) makes its debut on the CR-V and is available on automatic variants, it operates at up to 5 mph and helps the CR-V descend difficult terrain safely and consistently. These systems work in conjunction with the VSA and the MA-EPS systems.

Honda’s Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) is a radar-based autonomous emergency braking system. At speeds above 9 mph, moving and stationary vehicles are detected along a path 100m ahead of the vehicle. When the system senses that the car is likely to hit one of these obstacles, a three stage process is initiated. In the first, (typically around 3 seconds before impact), the driver is alerted by visual and audible warnings. In the second stage, when the system senses that a collision is still likely (typically some 2 seconds before impact), three sharp tugs are given on the seat belt and the car automatically starts to apply some braking. Finally, when a collision is unavoidable, CMBS tightens the front seat occupants’ seatbelts (using reversible tensioners different from the pyrotechnic devices used during the collision itself) and applies a high level of braking force. This braking can be supplemented by the driver up to the maximum that the car is capable of. Honda estimates that if all cars were fitted with CMBS, between 200,000 and 250,000 accidents could be either prevented or their effects mitigated every year.

Source;
http://www.honestjohn.co.uk/news/new-cars/2012-07/euro-spec-2013-honda-cr-v-breaks-cover-in-frankfurt/

TrueCar.com Identifies 10 Most Popular Cars for Moms (Honda CRV Tops!)

SANTA MONICA, Calif., May 10, 2012 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Just in time for Mother's Day, TrueCar.com, the authoritative voice in new car pricing and industry trend information, has identified the 10 Most Popular Cars for Moms. Based on 2011 data received from women with children about the cars they drive, the findings place the Honda CR-V at the top of the list, followed by the Nissan Altima, Honda Odyssey, Subaru Outback, and Honda Pilot.

"The data shows moms prefer vehicles that combine practicality with style," said Kristen Andersson, Senior Analyst at TrueCar.com. "Bigger is not always better when it comes to moms' favorite vehicles as evidenced by the lack of any Large SUVs and only one minivan in the overall top ten."

Some of the key findings of the data include:

Honda has five vehicles in the top 10 most popular cars for moms, including the CR-V, Odyssey, Pilot, Accord, and Civic.

Nissan has three vehicles in the top 10 most popular cars for moms, including the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra.

Odyssey ranked the highest among moms with two or more kids, thanks to its ability to hold up to eight people as well as 38.4 cubic-feet of cargo. The Honda Pilot, which ranked fifth overall, came in second place among moms with two or more kids, also attributable to its ability to carry up to eight passengers and 18 cubic feet of cargo.

With manufacturer's suggested retail pricing of $37,855 and $40,200, the Honda Odyssey and Pilot are the two most expensive vehicles on the list.

The two least expensive vehicles on the list were the Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra small sedans, with MSRPs of $21,445 and $19,140, making them favorites among small families with small budgets.

Only one minivan made the overall top 10, showing that most moms still prefer to drive a sedan or SUV. However, three minivans -- the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, and Chrysler Town & Country -- ranked among the top five most popular vehicles for moms with three or more children. 

Source;

http://www.marketwatch.com/story/truecarcom-identifies-10-most-popular-cars-for-moms-2012-05-10

2012 Honda CR-V review from Consumer Reports (Beats out Mazda CX5)

 FAMILY-FRIENDLY HONDA CR-V NARROWLY OUTPOINTS MAZDA CX-5 IN CONSUMER REPORTS' SMALL SUV TESTS

 Pricey Mercedes-Benz ML 350 and BMW X5 midsize SUVs improve, but fall short of class leaders

YONKERS, NY- With its large back seat, easy access and ample cargo space, the family-friendly Honda CR-V narrowly topped the Mazda CX-5 in Consumer Reports' latest head-to-head small SUVs tests.

On paper, the redesigned CR-V and new CX-5 appear very similar. Both can accommodate five passengers, have comparable dimensions, are available with front- or all-wheel drive, and are priced about the same. They also finished very close in CR's overall road-test scores-with a 77 and a 75, respectively-just under the segment-leading Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester.
"While their overall scores were close, these two small SUVs have very distinct characteristics that will probably appeal to different types of drivers" said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut. Consumer Reports found that the CR-V EX (tested price $26,455) is a more family-friendly SUV, with a large backseat, easy access, lots of cargo space, and a comfortable ride. It is also notably quicker and more responsive than the CX-5, with a refined drivetrain. On the downside, the CR-V suffers from pronounced road noise, sizable rear blind spots, and subpar at-the-limit handling. Overall, CR's testers found the CR-V is functional and easy to live with, if not particularly exciting to drive. The CX-5 Touring (tested price $27,125) is more athletic and engaging to drive, thanks to its agile handling, taut cornering, and responsive steering. It's more at home on a twisty road and is more likely to satisfy enthusiast drivers. The CX-5 also delivers the best fuel economy in its class-25 mpg overall-thanks to Mazda's new Skyactiv technology. The mid-level Touring version came well equipped with a full-power seat, keyless ignition and a blind-spot monitoring system. But the CX-5's trade-offs include a smaller, noisier cabin; a choppy ride on the highway; and slower acceleration. The full report on Consumer Reports' latest small SUV tests will be available on www.ConsumerReports.org April 26 and in the June issue of Consumer Reports on newsstands May 8th. Updated daily, ConsumerReports.org is the go-to Website for the latest auto reviews, product news, blogs on breaking news and car buying information. Check out CR's ongoing Twitter feed at @CRCars The Mercedes-Benz ML350and BMW X5 luxury SUVs were also tested against each other, as well as two small hatchbacks, the Subaru Impreza and Kia Rio. Only the CR-V is Recommended by Consumer Reports. Although the CX-5 scored well enough, it's still too new for CR to have reliability information. To be Recommended, a vehicle must perform well in CR's battery of tests, have average or better reliability in CR's Annual Auto Survey and perform well in government and industry crash tests. Helped by an impressively quiet and luxurious cabin, the redesigned Mercedes-Benz ML350 beat the sportier, updated BMW X5 in a match between the two German luxury SUVs. The new ML jumped seven points in Consumer Reports' Ratings over the previous generation, with a Very Good overall road-test score. It's more fuel efficient, quicker, and quieter than the previous model. The transmission and controls are also improved. With a turbocharged six-cylinder base engine that's quicker and more fuel-efficient than the previous one, the X5 also achieved a Very Good score. But its choppy ride and overly heavy steering did not improve. The X5's tested price of $62,675 is almost $6,000 more than the comparably equipped $56,960 ML. In everyday driving, both the ML and X5 exhibited good handling, with little body lean. The ML's steering is responsive but a touch vague. The more agile X5 holds the edge in handling and steering, but its steering feels heavy in low-speed situations such as when parking. At its handling limits, the X5 was capable and controlled; the ML350 was considerably less capable, with lower limits. Both vehicles rank mid-pack in this category, below the less expensive Acura MDX ($46,715) and Lexus RX 350 ($47,381). Although the SUVs scored well enough in CR's tests, neither model is Recommended because the ML350 is too new for Consumer Reports to have reliability data and the turbo X5 has had below-average reliability. Consumer Reports also recently tested the Subaru Impreza Hatchback and Kia Soul. The all-wheel-drive Impreza ($22,345), which was redesigned for 2012, has a smooth, comfortable ride, while the Soul ($19,270) can be unpleasantly stiff. Although the Soul is notably quicker thanks to recent engine tweaks and a new six-speed automatic transmission, performance is marred by much longer braking distances. In some ways, the two cars are very alike, providing easy access, simple controls, similar cargo room and turning circles, and the same commendable fuel economy of 26 mpg overall. Each also suffers from a noisy cabin. The Impreza's overall road-test score places it second in Consumer Reports' small-hatchback Ratings, behind the Volkswagen Golf. The less-refined Soul scored lower, but Consumer Reports found it to be a good value. Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

Geneva 2012: Honda CR-V European Prototype [Live Photos]

This handsome looking new crossover from Honda is the prototype for the CR-V that will replace the current one on the European market in autumn 2012. The styling is bolder and more upmarket than before, with a sculpted new grille and headlights.

The full production version of the 2012 CR-V is going to officially debut at the Paris Salon in autumn, but the looks will remain unchanged. As of yet, the interior is not fully complete, and the engine range has yet to be announced. But a bit of educated guesswork reveals petrol range will include a 2.0-liter i-VTEC, while the diesel one will focus on the 2.2 i-CTDi, which we know was refined for better economy in the new Civic hatchback. The 1.6-liter diesel that makes its debut in Geneva as well is unlikely to be offered at least for another year.

Source;

http://www.autoevolution.com/news/geneva-2012-honda-cr-v-european-prototype-live-photos-43168.html

Consumer Reports Video Review of the 2012 Honda CRV

Canadian Production of the All-New 2012 Honda CR-V Begins at Honda of Canada Mfg. in Alliston, ON

ALLISTON, ON, Jan. 23, 2012

More than 70 per cent of Honda vehicles sold in Canada will now be built in Canada

ALLISTON, ON, Jan. 23, 2012 /CNW/ - Production of the all-new 2012 Honda CR-V, Canada's top-selling import SUV, officially began today at Honda of Canada Mfg. (HCM) in Alliston, ON. With the addition of CR-V to the Ontario facility, Honda Canada's two best-selling vehicles, the Honda Civic and CR-V, are now being made in Canada by Canadians.

"The Honda CR-V has set the gold standard in the compact SUV segment and has been embraced by Canadians since it arrived here in 1997," said Jerry Chenkin, executive vice president, Honda Canada Inc. "We're proud that the all-new 2012 CR-V will be Canadian built."

The addition of the CR-V to HCM's production lineup makes it the first Honda plant in North America to produce four distinct models (Civic, CR-V, MDX and ZDX) on one line, demonstrating the flexibility and capability of HCM and its Associates.

"It certainly has been a challenging year for our 4,200 Associates at HCM," said Gilles Madore, vice president, Honda of Canada Mfg. "But with Civic being named Canada's number one-selling passenger car for the fourteenth straight year and the addition of Honda's second best-selling vehicle in Canada to our facility, we're incredibly proud of what we have accomplished and are ready to provide Canadians with a made-in-Canada CR-V."

In November 2011, Honda celebrated 25 years of manufacturing in Canada at its facilities in Alliston, Ontario. Since 1987, Honda has built close to 6 million vehicles and invested more than $2.6 billion in Canada. The company also purchases more than $1.1 billion in goods from Canadian suppliers every year.

"The inauguration of Honda's new CR-V at the Alliston plant in Ontario signals the strength of the auto sector in Ontario, new momentum for Honda and demonstrates confidence in the province's economy," said Brad Duguid, Minister of Economic Development and Innovation. "This move helps secure our position as a top auto manufacturing hub in North America and protect valuable sector jobs."

About the 2012 CR-V

For 2012, the fourth-generation Honda CR-V embraces a sophisticated styling direction in conjunction with improved interior comfort, improved fuel economy, a smoother and quieter ride, and more innovative features as part of a 'total package' approach. Long considered as a benchmark vehicle in its class with high levels of quality, refinement and value, the 2012 CR-V is designed to exceed customer expectations in Canada's compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment with increased value resulting from added content and lower MSRPs across the entire CR-V lineup.

Starting at just $25,990, the all-new Honda CR-V has its lowest starting price in more than a decade.

Source;

http://www.digitaljournal.com/pr/558165#ixzz1kOZt1kmV

Globe and Mail: 2012 Honda CRV: Honda Gets its Mojo Back

by jeremy cato

Smaller is bigger. That’s the start of the 2012 Honda CR-V story.

What’s more, this remade compact crossover is more powerful, has better fuel economy, a better all-wheel-drive system and a so-called “value” story.

Smaller is bigger? Honda’s engineers and designers are almost giddy talking about a lower and shorter overall CR-V with more cabin and cargo room. The secret? They moved the windshield forward and lowered the cargo floor. There is also an improved instrument panel and, unlike with the latest Civic, the cabin materials are pretty decent.

The CR-V, of course, is Honda Canada’s second best-selling vehicle and one of Honda’s top sellers worldwide. This rig matters. A lot. Especially in the wake of the redesigned 2012 Civic.
The Civic, as you know, has been whacked by critics for shortcomings that start with an interior seemingly inspired by Filene’s Basement. A repeat of the Civic launch would be a major disaster for Honda.

But that doesn’t seem to be the case here, even though the CR-V and the Civic share the same basic mechanical base. Moreover, the 2012 CR-V is following in the tire tracks of the Civic in the most important way of all way: pricing.

The base model has dropped to $25,990 versus $26,290 for the 2011 starter wagon. At the other end, Honda Canada has a new top-of-line Touring model at $34,990. The 2011 CR-V topped out at $33,490. The 2012 Touring is the ritzy CR-V, loaded up with standard AWD, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, chrome door handles, roof rails and a long list of other standard features on all CR-Vs: Bluetooth HandsFreeLink yakking, a full-colour multi-information display, a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines and heated front seats. air conditioning, cruise control, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, rear-seat heater ducts and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD player.

Honda is anxious to share all this, and to reclaim its mojo with a successful CR-V launch. That said, let’s give Honda credit for owning up to past Civic mistakes. At December’s Tokyo Motor Show, Honda Motor president Takanobu Ito took personal responsibility for the bad Civic reviews, noted Automotive News. The company’s global research and development chief said Honda simply took its eye off the two most important balls in the car business: the competition and the customer.

Yoshiharu Yamamoto, president of Honda R&D, told Automotive News that with the 2012 Civic, “our competitors, including Hyundai and Ford, set clear targets to make their cars better than the Civic. We probably did not pay close enough attention to where our competitors were at.” Confession is good for the soul, correct?

So is the realization that the CR-V is one of four core models for Honda and all will have been remade by the middle of next year. Honda is a car company with only a handful of high-volume offerings, so the pressure is on to make each one a winner. The relatively new Odyssey minivan is excellent, the new Civic, not so much. Next year we’ll get a new Accord mid-size car.

With the CR-V, the designers have delivered a wagon with a more aerodynamic design. Prettier? Not so sure, though the slicker sheet metal is a critical for fuel economy. Bake in a weight reduction and less engine friction and out pops a CR-V with slightly more horsepower (185 versus 180 before), quicker acceleration and better fuel economy – despite the mostly carryover powertrain.

The numbers: the 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine is rated at 9.0 litres/100 km city/6.5 highway (two-wheel drive) and 9.2 city/6.6 highway (AWD). Honda’s engineers are also touting the new “ECON” operating mode for those who want to squeeze out even more fuel efficiency. The four-banger is the only engine Honda offers with the CR-V; there is no V-6 or turbocharged option, as is the case with some rivals.

To improve the drive, Honda stiffened up the CR-V with a strengthened tailgate area and thicker gauge steel in certain areas. The AWD system now has electronic actuation of the torque split mechanism between the front and rear wheels, though the basic design is a carryover hydraulic system. The improvement is simple and important: the rear wheels always get some power at startup and 100 per cent of engine torque can be sent to the front or rear wheels. Also to save fuel, Honda has gone to full electric power steering.

The cabin is comfortable and tasteful and even clever in some ways. For instance, the split-folding rear seats will drop flat with the touch of a lever easily reached from the tailgate. A nifty space in the centre console provides excellent storage, where it’s often needed.

But Honda does need to remember the competition with rival models that offer more horsepower and lower pricing. The new CR-V’s ride also could be quieter at highway speeds, the five-speed automatic transmission is nothing special and the design at the very least gives this crossover a big rear end with some visibility issues.

Nonetheless, this Honda sells in big numbers for many good reasons – from an excellent quality story, to strong safety ratings, high resale values and overall functionality. That all remains for 2012.

Source;

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/new-cars/reviews/the-cr-v-honda-gets-its-mojo-back/article2306833/

2X New 2012 Honda CRV Commercials

Honda Canada announces 2012 CR-V pricing

With its new 2012 CR-V set to debut January 4 at dealerships, Honda Canada has released pricing for the popular-selling compact sport-ute.

Pricing will start at $25,990 for the CR-V LX (2WD), while the top-of-line, Canadian-exclusive Touring model with Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System and other features will be offered with a suggested retail price of $34,990.

As of the end of November, the CR-V is the third-best-selling compact SUV in the country with more than 23,000 units sold, behind the Ford Escape and Dodge Journey.

“The new CR-V represents excellent value for Canadian buyers of popular compact SUVs from top-of-class fuel economy to the largest cargo capacity of any vehicle in its segment,” says Jerry Chenkin, executive vice-president of Honda Canada. “The new … CR-V adds up to $2,500 in additional value in standard features and technologies compared to the outgoing model.

Honda also says that “as of early next year,” all CR-Vs sold in Canada will be built at its assembly plant in Alliston, Ont.

All fourth-generation CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque.

Source;
http://life.nationalpost.com/2011/12/19/honda-canada-announces-2012-cr-v-pricing/

2012 Honda CRV for Canada, Trims, Specs, and Colours

Here are the trim levels, spec's, and colours available for Canada. Expect this vehicle to start showing up in showrooms between Dec. 15, 2011 and Jan. 15, 2012!

Source;

Honda Canada

Honda Launches 2012 CR-V Crossover in Japan, gets 2.0L and 2.4L Engines

Japanese buyers will be the first to receive the all-new fourth-generation CR-V, as Honda announced today that the 2012 CR-V would go on sale at dealerships across the country on December 2, approximately two week ahead of its U.S. launch that's slated for December 15 and almost a year before it reaches European showrooms next fall.

The new CR-V, which we first saw at the Los Angeles Auto Show earlier this month, will be offered in Japan in two flavors, the 20G and the 24G.

The base, front-wheel drive only 20G comes with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine producing 150HP at 6,200rpm and 191Nm of peak torque at 4,300 rpm, linked to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

It returns a fuel economy of 14.4km/L (33.9 mpg US or 6.9lt/100km) on Japan's JC08 cycle and 15.4km/L (35.2 mpg US or 6.5 lt/100km) on the 10-15 driving cycle.

The 24G is available only with all-wheel drive and the larger 2.4-liter gasoline unit rated at 190HP at 7,000 rpm and 222Nm at 4,400 rpm, matched to a five-speed automatic transmission. Honda says that the 24G has a fuel efficiency of 11.6km/L (27.3 mpg US or 8.6 lt/100km) on the JC08 test cycle and 12.2km/L (28.7 mpg US or 8.2 lt/100km) on the 10-15.

The 2012 CR-V 20G come with a sticker price of 2,480,000 Yen (about US$31,900) while the all-wheel drive 24G costs 2,750,000 Yen (approx. US$35,350).

Honda said that it expects to sell around 18,000 CR-Vs annually in Japan.

Source;

http://www.carscoop.blogspot.com/2011/11/honda-launches-2012-cr-v-crossover-in.html

Car and Driver; In Depth with the 2012 Honda CRV

Compact crossovers are a little like toothbrushes. They perform a necessary function, but they’re rarely exciting. Everybody needs a toothbrush, though, and toothbrush manufacturers want to outsell their competitors, so we have wear-indicating bristles, flexible split heads, integrated tongue-and-cheek scrapers, and the like.

Accordingly, much of Honda’s technical presentation on the new CR-V focused on the next-gen mini-ute’s new features, including standard stuff like two info screens, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, and a function that reads incoming text messages from paired phones—assuming said phone is from a short list of BlackBerrys or a Droid X, as those are the only devices with which the CR-V can currently communicate. Meanwhile, lesser points like the powertrain and the basic construction of the chassis were only mentioned in passing. Makes sense: Once Colgate nails down the perfect handle cross-section, head shape, and bristle feel, it’s probably going to keep making that same toothbrush. Honda was pretty happy with the outgoing CR-V—and its sales numbers indicated that buyers were, too—so the new CR-V is a lot like the old one.

Hello, Again. You Should Have Brought a Friend. Maybe a Turbo.

The spec-sheet familiarity begins with the only available engine. It’s the same dual-overhead-cam 2.4-liter inline-four, but it now boasts a 5.4-percent reduction in internal friction and a more efficient alternator. These slight changes increase output to 185 hp and 163 lb-ft, bumps of five and two. It’s worth noting that the power peak occurs at 7000 rpm, and the automatic transmission shifts about 300 or so rpm before that. Unless you’re going to lock your CR-V in first around town, don’t expect to feel those extra fillies. You won’t hear them quite as much as before, either, although Honda still has the most pleasing soundtrack in the tiny-truck business. It’s louder than we would expect most crossover buyers to want, but it obviously isn’t deterring many—the CR-V is the perennial bestseller in its segment.

Behind that only slightly updated engine is an only slightly updated transmission. Against a market that is swelling with six-speed automatics—not to mention the nine-speed ZF unit on its way for front-drive applications—Honda is sticking with the CR-V’s fiver. Lower-friction internals and lower-viscosity transmission fluid boost efficiency, and a wider ratio spread nudges the CR-V’s fuel-economy ratings up. Front-drivers see their mileage increase from 21/28 city/highway to 23/31; all-wheel-drive models go from 21/27 to 22/30.

The Snow Falls and Molasses Wins

The downside is that the CR-V remains among the slowest in its class. The Honda’s ratios make it feel even slower than its predecessor—in first gear, redline resides north of 40 mph; in second, it’s hiding in the 80-mph range—but when we got the new CR-V to the test track, it actually clicked off the 0-to-60 run in two fewer tenths, or 8.5 seconds. We’ve recently logged about half a dozen complaints about the ratio spread in Chrysler’s rear-drive five-speed—we would like Honda to note that this unit is imminently being replaced with an eight-cogger—because of its ludicrous gearing.

Although few people floor it off the line during their morning commute (more people should try it; they’d be amazed how much more time they have in a day if they don’t drive like they’re dead or waiting to be), there are real-world drawbacks to dog-slow crossovers. Run up on a surprisingly slow truck on the freeway, and you’d better have a long opening behind you in the left lane. When you pop out to pass and give the CR-V the boot, it’s going to need a lot of time to get up to speed. Accelerating from 50 to 70 mph takes 5.6 seconds, while the combined time for 30–50 and 50–70 runs is more than 10 seconds. Should you floor it at much more than 60 mph, the trans only drops into third, stranding you around 3500 rpm. At that speed, it feels like you only need two digits to quantify the 2.4-liter’s torque output. Drivers behind you are likely to display two digits of their own. For even greater sluggishness, Honda fits all 2012 CR-Vs with an “econ” button that dulls throttle response and widens the acceptable window of variation for the cruise and climate controls.

In response to criticism for sticking with the five-speed, Honda’s answer was along the lines of, “Our five is damn good. The customers wanted efficiency gains—we gave them efficiency gains.” We appreciate the philosophy of extracting greater efficiencies from existing hardware before creating all-new systems, but clinging to the five-speed seems kind of lazy.

The critical chassis measurements—wheelbase, front and rear track—are identical to the previous CR-V’s, so you’d be forgiven for thinking that the new car’s underpinnings also land in the “same old, same old” column. Nay, says Honda: 65 percent of the basic structure is new. Part of that 65 percent is additional bracing around the back of the body. It further solidifies what already felt like one of the firmest shells in its class and contributes to what Honda claims is a 40-percent increase in the balance between responsiveness and stability. Claiming exact-percentage increases in unquantifiables doesn’t make much sense to us. Then again, neither does the fact that such a sporty-feeling chassis can be the favorite in a segment whose buyers certainly don’t prioritize athletic feel. But the CR-V is agile and firm, and the ride only gets unsettled on pavement that seems engineered to unsettle a vehicle. The steering is a bit slower than the outgoing CR-V’s, and although some added heft makes it feel more certain on-center, there’s otherwise less communication than before. We doubt many buyers will care. Neither will they notice that the electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system is quicker in its operation, more efficient, and lighter than the old hydraulic setup.

Feels Bigger Inside
Overall length is down by one inch, and height drops by 1.4 inch for front-wheel-drive models and one inch on all-wheel-drive versions. That robs front-row occupants of about an inch of headroom; legroom stays the same up front and is reduced by 0.2 inch in the rear. But the 2012 CR-V is a good deal wider up around the front windows than its predecessor, which lends it a much more spacious feel. The back seat of the outgoing vehicle could be adjusted fore-and-aft and offered four different seat-back angles; the new one has no fore-and-aft adjustment and only two seatback angles. Even so, we found it much easier to get comfortable in the back of the new car than in its predecessor. More sound-deadening material throughout the cabin makes this generation much quieter than the last CR-V.

Just as important to the CR-V’s target customer is the folding rear seat. Seats up, you’ll find 37.2 cubic feet of cargo space, up from 35.7. Maximum volume drops exactly two cubes, though, to 70.9. From the rear doors, the seats fold in two steps—flip the bottom cushion forward and then drop the back cushion on top of it—but levers on either side of the cargo area drop each seat in one smooth action.

Other features of the new CR-V are less impressive. Neither of the infotainment system’s two screens presents its assigned information clearly, and the controls for both are obtuse. If this Gen-Y author couldn’t immediately figure out how to navigate a USB-connected iPod, you’ve got trouble. And Honda apparently believes that high-tech features should have ColecoVision graphics.

For better or worse, Honda is proud that those features are standard on all CR-Vs, starting with the base LX trim. Moving to the EX adds a sunroof, nicer seat cloth, an intermittent setting for the windshield wipers—for which we imagine every LX buyer would gladly trade one of the two information screens—a security system, and body-color door handles and mirror housings. The CR-V EX-L piles onto that leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with XM satellite radio, and a few interior trim pieces. Above EX-L, buyers have to make a tough decision: Do you want to get to your destination or travel in peace? Nav and a rear-seat entertainment system are available, but not together. The Oral-B ProfessionalCare SmartSeries 5000, on the other hand, has a timer to remind you to brush for two whole minutes and an in-handle display to provide feedback on the user’s brushing habits.

Honda hasn’t announced pricing yet, but figure on the ladder remaining similar to what it was in 2011, with the LX around $23,000, the EX near $25,000, and the EX-L commanding about $28,000, all with front-wheel drive. Add in navigation or the rear-seat entertainment system, and you’ll probably surpass $30,000.

The 2012 CR-V pleases on paper and remains a refreshingly competent entry in a dull segment. We’re amazed and heartened that a vehicle that feels so sporty relative to its competitors can consistently outsell all of them. But the new CR-V also delivers a few subtle insults—the poor integration of some of the technologies and Honda’s refusal to fit a six-speed transmission or more powerful engine among them. We still find it fundamentally satisfying, but a toothbrush should never offend.

Source;

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2012-honda-cr-v-road-test-review

Honda to Manufacture 2012 CR-V in Canada

Honda Canada announced today the plans for new 2012 CR-V production in Canada. Honda Canada’s move to bring the CR-V to Canada is a beneficial one. Having already built more than 5 million cars and trucks since 1986 in Canada, the Alliston, Ontario assembly plant has the right experience to start production of the new Honda CR-V.

The new 2012 Honda CR-V is the fourth generation of Honda’s already popular compact SUV. Adding features such as upscale styling direction, enhanced fuel efficiency and a “total package” approach in design, Canadians will be able to purchase a new CR-V that is, for the first time ever, manufactured in Canada.

"Our current CR-V owners and those shopping for a fully featured compact sport-utility vehicle will love the new CR-V for its dynamic styling, increased cargo space and best-in-class fuel economy," said Dave Jamieson, assistant vice president of the Honda Automobile Division at Honda Canada Inc. "And with new features such as SMS text messaging, Honda's new innovative Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat and all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system with Intelligent Control, the new 2012 CR-V offers Canadians tremendous value."

Special features that Canadians should be on the lookout for with the 2012 CR-V include a Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system with Intelligent Control, Eco Assist—an efficient operation indicator, Bluetooth capabilities, multi-angle rearview camera, and SMS text messaging.

Utilizing two vehicle assembly plants in Alliston, Ontario for production, Honda Canada sources annually $1.1 billion in Canadian supplier goods and services and, to date, has overall invested $2.6 billion in Canada.

Source;
http://www.businessreviewcanada.ca/business_leaders/honda-to-manufacture-2012-cr-v-in-canada

2012 Honda CRV Review

Here's a real comprehensive review on the 2012 Honda CRV....

All-New, Completely Redesigned 2012 Honda CR-V Debuts at LA Auto Show

Popular SUV introduces innovative features for music and SMS texting, new Real Time AWD system debuts, and FWD model achieves 31 mpg highway EPA rating

The all-new, the fourth-generation Honda CR-V debuted today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The 2012 CR-V introduces an upscale styling direction, greater fuel efficiency, and added features and functionality. The CR-V will go on-sale at Honda dealerships nationwide on December 15th.

With the previous-generation CR-V recognized as a "Top Recommended Vehicle" and having the "Best Retained Value SUV under $25,000" by Edmunds.com, and named top compact crossover SUV in dependability by J.D. Power and Associates, the all-new 2012 model introduces the latest evolution of Honda's successful CR-V formula. Compact on the outside and roomy inside, the CR-V represents an ideal balance for size and capability in the entry SUV segment. The all-new five-passenger CR-V offers improved car-like interior comfort, a smoother and quieter ride, and even more innovative features than the previous model.

Powerful and Efficient 4-Cylinder Engine

Leading the changes are a more efficient engine design with improved horsepower and torque, along with an all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System™. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft. of torque paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy1 is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (FWD) (an increase of +2/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V), and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined (AWD) (an increase of +1/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V). Eco Assist, a new feature on the CR-V for 2012, indicates to the driver when the vehicle is being operated in an efficient style via "green" visual cues surrounding the speedometer, and a selectable ECON Mode alters operating characteristics of the vehicle to support an efficient driving style.

New Standard Features

New for 2012 standard features include an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat and a range of standard technology features. New high-tech features on all models include a Bluetooth®2 HandsFreeLink® phone interface (previously an available feature), a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. As a first for Honda, every 2012 CR-V includes an SMS text messaging function, which can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Another first is the introduction of a Pandora® Internet Radio interface3, compatible with the Apple® iPhone®, which works with the vehicle's audio controls and i-MID.

Model Range

The CR-V lineup starts with the CR-V LX model, now with more standard equipment for 2012. The CR-V LX is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, i-MID, remote entry, a 160-watt, a 4-speaker audio system, Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). The CR-V EX adds an upgraded six-speaker audio system, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and more. The CR-V EX-L builds on the rich features of the CR-V EX and adds a leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver's seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, 328-watt 7-speaker audio system with XM®4 Radio and much more. Available features for the CR-V EX-L include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System5 with Voice Recognition™ and FM Traffic, or a DVD Rear Entertainment System (not available with Navigation). Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ is an available feature on each model.

Design

The 2012 CR-V body adopts a more dynamic and sophisticated appearance compared to the previous generation. The CR‑V's spacious interior layout is more accommodating with a roomy new center console (now standard) and an overall lower cargo floor height for easy loading and unloading. The new Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat makes accessing the full capability of the cargo area much more convenient than traditional folding seats. Each side of the rear seat can fold nearly flat into the front of the cargo area using one of the release levers located near the tailgate, or a pull-strap positioned on the seat side.

Safety

Every CR-V incorporates as standard equipment VSA, an electronic stability control system; an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist; side-curtain airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure in the front of the vehicle helps make the vehicle highly effective at absorbing and dispersing the energy of a frontal crash.

Warranty

The 2012 Honda CR-V is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty.

Additional media information, including detailed features and high-resolution photography of the 2012 Honda CR-V, is available at www.hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.

Source;

http://www.hondanews.com/channels/corporate-headlines/releases/all-new-completely-redesigned-2012-honda-cr-v-debuts-at-la-auto-show

2012 Honda CR-V spied undisguised plus interior shot

New CR-V caught on its way for a debut at the Los Angeles motor show

These spy shots reveal the 2012 Honda CR-V undisguised ahead of its debut at the L.A. motor show next week.

Some of the shots show the new CR-V next to the current model which helps with the comparison. We even get a shot of its interior without disguise.

In this set of photos we get to see the three-bar grille of the production 2012 CR-V as well as its new dash, instrument cluster and center console with its large screen.

No word yet on engines but details should be made available next Wednesday November 16 when the 2012 Honda CR-V debuts to the media in Los Angeles.

Source;
http://www.worldcarfans.com/111111138138/2012-honda-cr-v-spied-undisguised-plus-interior-shot

Despite Thai floods, Honda tells dealers 2012 CR-V will launch on time

Automotive News reports that the 2012 Honda CR-V will, in fact, launch on schedule. Honda has reportedly told its dealers that the crossover will arrive on time despite initial concerns about the impact of Thai floods on the vehicle's production. Honda had originally cautioned that the vehicle may be delayed by several weeks due to a shortage of components produced in Thailand. That crisis has apparently been avoided.

The 2012 Civic wasn't so fortunate. Weather delays related to the tsunami and flood disasters in Japan resulted in a production shortage for the new compact that hampered the model's launch.

Even with the CR-V arriving on dealer lots as scheduled, Honda is still cutting back production to cope with component shortages. In a separate report, Automotive News says that the company is temporarily adjusting manufacturing at its six plants in the United States and Canada as a result of flooding in Thailand. Some of the facilities will operate at above the 50 percent capacity Honda originally forecasted when it became clear that the company's suppliers would be impacted by the weather. The slow-down is expected to stretch until November 25 in Canada and November 23 in the States.

Source;
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/09/despite-thai-floods-honda-tells-dealers-2012-cr-v-will-launch-o/