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INTERIOR
Although the exterior dimensions are the same as before, the new CR-V has a lower floor and shorter nose, resulting in a cabin that is 8% more spacious – 65 mm longer, 20 mm taller, and 35 mm wider. While having a new look, some of the practical ideas are retained from the first generation. For example, about 250 mm separates the front seats and this allows for the CR-V’s walk-through capability. Providing the best of both worlds, the flip-up centre tray provides console functionality between the front seats complete with storage tray and two large cup holders. The shifter is on the steering column and a neat idea is the design of the handbrake lever which used to be a simple T-shaped handle under the dashboard; in the new generation, it is an easy-to-reach joystick-shaped lever near the middle of the dashboard. Also new on the instrument panel is the CPU-controlled fuel gauge which is said to give more accurate readings.

For the Japanese market, customers can include a rearview camera-equipped Honda Navigation System which combines a full range of navigation functions with a colour rear camera that enhances the view behind. The display also features guide markings for vehicle width and distance to make parking easier.

With the rear seats folded and tumbled forward, the CR-V is claimed to have enough space to accommodate two full-size, mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels in an upright, secured position without having to remove the rear seats. That’s a feat which few SUVs in this class can accomplish.

As would be expected, storage spaces are plentiful and Honda claims that there are 21 places to store small and large items. And if you liked the neat picnic table which was hidden in the boot floor, the good news is that it’s been retained and what’s more, is bigger for the new model. Proving that no detail is too small for Honda’s designers, a groove in the corner of the table serves as a hanger for small items or a trash bag. Another clever idea is the provision of a large waterproof bucket in the floor.

GLOBAL INTRODUCTION
One of Honda’s more popular models worldwide, especially in the US, the CR-V will be introduced quickly in many markets. According to a source at DRB-Oriental-Honda (DOH), the new CR-V will be assembled locally but no launch date is available at this time although it definitely will not be this year. Needless to say, private importers will probably have some units in later this year for those who want to be the first to own new models. When the first generation was assembled in Malaysia, it was the only one in its class to be assembled locally. Now, however, Ford Malaysia is also assembling the Escape and it is likely that DOH will be looking at the Ford’s price level of RM140,000 to determine how to price its new CR-V.