Honda CR-V, 2013
Launched in late 2001, the second generation CR-V took many cues from the original, retaining all of its best features including the rugged 4x4 styling and the 'on demand' Real Time Dual Pump 4WD system. It offered improved performance and economy, achieved through the introduction of Honda's 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, while the new body structure delivered increased interior space.
A further sales boost came in 2005 with the introduction of Honda's much acclaimed i-CTDi diesel engine. Perfectly complementing the petrol engine, the high output, high torque engine significantly enhanced the CR-V's all-round appeal.
In 2007, the introduction of the third-generation CR-V marked the first CR-V to feature a vertically opening tailgate, a feature made possible by removing the spare wheel from the back door. Lower in height, shorter in length and wider than its predecessors, it offered improved on-road dynamics. A mid-life facelift in 2009 introduced the new generation i-DTEC diesel engine and saw a diesel engine combined with an automatic transmission for the first time in the CR-V.
Over five million CR-Vs have been sold across the world since its introduction in 1995 and the new, fourth generation builds on the success of its predecessors with even greater quality, practicality and refinement. The model that helped define the compact-SUV sector has been comprehensively redesigned for the European market.
For the first time in Europe, the new CR-V will be offered with a choice of both two- and four-wheel drive, while improvements to both the petrol and diesel engines have resulted in a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The pursuit of the perfect balance between a car and an SUV influenced every element of the development process, including the exterior styling.
The length and height of the car have been reduced by 5 mm and 30 mm respectively compared with the current model, without reducing the interior space.
While the fourth generation model is instantly recognisable as a member of the CR-V family, it still manages to assert its own identity. The new model takes on a more aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deeper sculpting of the bodylines and a bolder nose section. The front bumper's smooth, flowing lines are joined by a horizontal three-bar grille and deep-set headlights. The lower front bumper is designed to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle. The signature vertical rear brake lights, which have featured on every generation of Honda CR-V, remain but the fourth generation introduces a more three-dimensional style. The CR-V's large wheels and bold wheelarches further emphasise its dynamic presence and capability.
The CR-V has been designed as a global car but the European model features a number of exterior refinements developed specifically for this market. A revised front bumper emphasises its dynamic appeal, while front LED daytime running lights and rear LED lights are other stylish additions.
The position of the windscreen has been brought forward by 60 mm (measured from bottom of the windscreen) relative to the overall length of the car. As a result, the size of the engine compartment has been reduced.
The repositioning of the windscreen and the new bonnet design have provided a second benefit: the area of the nose of the car that cannot be seen from the driver's seat has been reduced to improve visibility and make the CR-V easier to manoeuvre.
A 10 mm increase in both the steering wheel and seat height adjustments has also ensured that a broader range of drivers can achieve an ideal driving position.
The synergy between form and function has played a critical role in the development of every generation of the Honda CR-V and this latest model is no exception. The expansive glass area of the windows reveals the spaciousness of the cabin.
With the rear seats folded flat, the boot capacity of the CR-V has grown by 147 litres to 1648 litres. If the space-saver spare wheel is specified, the volume increases to 1669 litres with the seats folded up, or 589 litres with the seats in place. The load length has been increased by 140 mm to 1570 mm, while the height of the load lip has been reduced by 25 mm 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.
INTERIOR DESIGN - QUALITY AND FUNCTIONALITY
The interior design concept for the new Honda CR-V continues the man-maximum, machine-minimum philosophy. "The first thing that we wanted to achieve with the interior design was a feeling of openness," says the Interior Designer, Takehiro Ishibashi. "I wanted to communicate the feeling you get when you stand on top of a mountain, looking down on the valley and seeing a panorama of the landscape. It's a feeling of freedom, space and timelessness."
The influence of this thinking can be seen in the fascia design. "There are a number of horizontal layers which help emphasise the feeling of space," says Nakagawa. "We call this 'lean-layered' design. By arranging the major functions in a series of layers, you create an ergonomically-efficient environment that is very intuitive." The major controls have been further grouped according to their function, with a 'driver interface zone' behind the steering wheel and an 'information interface zone' in the centre of the cabin.
The materials used within the new CR-V have been carefully chosen for the European market. "The high quality finish on the top of the fascia was inspired by the marble-like pattern you find on Japanese Kobe beef," says Ishibashi. "On the decorative strip that flows across the fascia we used a special film that creates a 3D effect. I am really proud of our attention to detail in every aspect of this vehicle."
Care has also been taken to achieve a significant reduction in the engine and road noise entering the cabin. Sound insulation material has been applied to the floorpan below the passenger compartment, while sound absorption material has been fitted to the rear door, rear wheelarches, door frames, front bulkhead and bonnet. The doors also now feature a double seal. The net result is a 3dB reduction in cabin noise compared to the current CR-V.
The high quality ambience is further enhanced by an impressive range of equipment. In the cabin attention focuses on the 5in "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID), which controls the audio, telephone and navigation systems (where fitted). Also fitted as standard are Honda's acclaimed ECON mode which helps to minimise fuel consumption and Eco Assist system which advises drivers on how their driving style is impacting on fuel economy (see Efficiency).
In order to emphasise the feeling of space inside, the door casings have been sculpted to create a concave shape. This has also allowed the occupants of the front seats to be moved closer to the sides of the car, making it easier to step in and out. As a consequence, more space has been liberated between the seats for a centre console that houses three cupholders, a storage compartment, an armrest and air vents for the rear seats.
The hip point of the rear passenger seats has been lowered by 38 mm compared to the current model, resulting in a more comfortable seating position and increased headroom. A change in the design of the rear seats has also allowed Honda's engineers to introduce easy fold-down 60/40 Split Rear Seats, which can be folded flat in one movement. At the pull of a handle, the CR-V can be transformed from a five-seater passenger car into a versatile load-lugger. "This is a feature of which I am particularly proud," says Ishibashi. "It will make a big difference to how our customers use their CR-V."
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