Honda CR-V gets 9-speed auto in Europe
Honda has introduced an updated version of the CR-V in the European market offering a refreshed design, revised engine line-up and new in-car technologies. This new and improved model will be available from Spring 2015.
In appearance, styling changes applied to the new European CR-V include a redesigned front fascia that sees its headlamps flow into the grille complemented by a new front skid plate. Over at the rear, tail lamps are illuminated by LEDs designed to exude a fluid three-dimensional look.
Inside, the CR-V’s famously functional interior is further enhanced by a sliding armrest (60mm range of motion, fore/aft) to further enhance versatility and comfort. Visually, it is uplifted by a strip of chrome-effect inlay spanning the width of the dashboard.
Additionally, the Europe-spec CR-V will be amongst the first Honda models worldwide to receive Honda’s new app-driven infotainment system, dubbed Honda Connect. Specified as standard fitment across the range, the system consists of a seven-inch central touchscreen and features integration with Bluetooth connectivity, reverse camera, smartphone MirrorLink, and the optional satellite navigation system.
A selection of three engines are offered to European buyers, starting with the familiar (to us) 153hp 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine fitted to the front-wheel drive model. Alongside it, a pair of 1.6-litre i-DTEC turbodiesel engines complete the roster; a 118hp version, mated with manual transmission in front-wheel drive configuration, offers rated emissions as low as 115 g/km (pending official type approval).
Spearheading the range, however, is a more powerful version of the 1.6-litre diesel supplying 158hp and 350Nm for the all-wheel drive. This engine can be specified with either a 6-speed manual or an all-new 9-speed automatic transmission. The manual’s carbon dioxide emissions are rated below 130 g/km, whilst the auto’s 135 g/km is a 20% improvement over its predecessor which carried the long-serving 5-speed auto.
This European version of the CR-V unsurprisingly differs from what Honda offers in the more cost-conscious ASEAN region. The ASEAN-spec CR-V facelift was recently shown at the Thai Motor Expo in Bangkok, and its engine line-up includes the existing 2.0-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine with 5-speed auto transmission and the new 2.4-litre Earth Dreams engine from the Accord combined with a CVT. Both engines have the option of front- and all-wheel drive.
Pictures: Official Honda release.