All new, the 2017 CR-V falls in line with Honda’s recent design language. Its front end looks sharper than before thanks in part to a wide chromed grille that underscores a pair of chiseled headlights. Every trim level comes standard with Honda’s signature wing-shaped LED daytime running lights.
The rumors that claimed the CR-V would offer seven seats turned out to be false. The model carries on as a five-seater even though it offers a longer wheelbase that clears up more space for the passengers sitting in the back. Designed with practicality in mind, Honda’s newest crossover is available with a hands-free tailgate, a remote engine starter, and an electronic parking brake.
Honda promises it has put a big focus on making the CR-V’s cabin more upmarket. To that end, it has added a soft-touch instrument panel, seats that are more intricately stitched, and a color thin-film transistor (TFT) screen in the instrument cluster. An available seven-inch touchscreen runs Honda’s newest infotainment system, and it’s compatible with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Like other members of the Honda lineup, the CR-V is available with a suite of electronic driving aids named Honda Sensing. The features bundled into the package include collision mitigation braking, forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist.
The base CR-V gets an aging 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 184 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 180 pound-feet of torque at 3,900 rpm. However, the top three trim levels benefit from the first turbocharged engine ever fitted to the CR-V. Borrowed from the Civic, the unit in question is a 1.5-liter that delivers 190 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 179 pound-feet of torque from 2,000 to 5,000 rpm.
Front-wheel drive comes standard regardless of which engine is chosen, and all-wheel drive is available at an extra cost. The only gearbox available across the lineup is a continuously variable transmission. Honda promises the CR-V will be the most efficient model in its class, but official fuel economy figures aren’t available yet.
Built in North America, the 2017 Honda CR-V is scheduled to go on sale this winter. The lineup is broken down into four trim levels, called LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. Pricing information will be published in the weeks leading up to its on-sale date.
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