The Honda CR-V is not only the Japanese manufacturer’s best seller, but one of the best-selling models in the world, which regularly appears in the global Top 10. With its sixth generation (the first was launched in 1995), Honda is also transferring the plug-in engine to Europe for the first time. The system is based on the 2.0 liter Atkinson cycle direct injection engine combined with an electric unit for a total of 184 HP of system power (335 Nm of torque) and a 17.7 kWh battery. The manufacturer has worked hard on efficiency because it promises a mileage in the Wltp combined cycle of more than 80 kilometres, 82 to be precise. An important autonomy considering the capacity of the accumulator, the dimensions of the vehicle (4.7 meters in length) and its weight, a figure not yet disclosed, but hardly under two tons.
To avoid misunderstandings, especially after the controversy over the “thermal cage” into which many manufacturers have stumbled with the dieselgate, Honda points out that full energy supply takes place in two and a half hours when the accumulator temperature is 25°. The paradox of the plug-in version is the greater capacity of the boot (617 litres) compared to the other variant offered, the full hybrid one, again with 184 HP (similar to that proposed on the Civic e:HEV), which offers 587: l volume increase is 18%. The two versions are also distinguished from each other by the exclusive design of the grille.
Compared to the previous generation, the new CR-V gains about ten centimeters in length with a wheelbase that rises to 2.7 metres, 40 millimeters longer than before, to the benefit of occupants who have 16 millimeters more for their legs. The Japanese SUV is also wider, even if it certainly cannot be said that in the previous model it was too narrow. The eight rear seat settings, with an angle of inclination increased by more than 10.5°, also allow passengers to relax comfortably.
The sixth generation of the Honda CR-V is the first model equipped with Sensing 360, the advanced omnidirectional safety and assisted driving system with which the manufacturer ensures that it eliminates blind spots around the vehicle and helps avoid collisions by reducing worries of the driver. Engineers and designers have intervened on visibility by lowering the front corners thanks to shapes that make it possible to better perceive the overall dimensions of the vehicle. The glass surface itself has been designed to guarantee “less stress, a greater feeling of openness and a greater sense of security”. The SUV will make its debut on the Old Continent within the year with a possible price range of between 50,000 and 60,000 euros, at least in the entry level version.
