Honda Malaysia recently organised a drive from Kuala Lumpur to Batu Ferringhi, Penang for the motoring media to better experience the top two CR-V variants, namely the 1.5-litre turbocharged (V grade) and 2.0-litre e:HEV RS hybrid.
As expected, both the CR-V variants, fitted with Toyo Proxes R45 tyres sized 235/60 R18, provided for smooth, comfortable long-distance motoring on a mix of smooth highways and backcountry roads where some stretches were rutted and poorly maintained.
Rear occupants who are 1.7-metre tall would have no issues with the headroom, and the rear seats which can recline at eight different angles, were a welcomed benefit when we wanted to catch a short nap.
AS the only variant in the all-new Honda CR-V offering that features an all-wheel drive system (AWD), the V grade will find a set of buyers keen to have this extra tractability on tarmac or challenging terrain.
During our recent media drive from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and back, we found ourselves on a scenic and twisty uphill stretch of Penang’s Jalan Teluk Bahang, an area famed for its durian plantations, where the V grade with AWD took road curves with aplomb.
The top variant of Honda Malaysia’s 1.5-litre turbocharged CR-V lineup tackled corners on the hilly and twisty route confidently, providing a sense of control and stability.
The 1.5-litre turbocharged directed injected 4-cylinder DOHC VTEC engine produces 193PS at 6,000rpm and 243Nm of torque from 1,700 to 5,000rpm which gets managed by a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The CVT provides better acceleration response, improved quietness and a smoother drive.
We found a lively and responsive powertrain, which provided ample power and quick acceleration on demand on the twisty bends of the uphill climb.
Fuel consumption is rated at 7.5 litres per 100km for the V grade, a bit higher compared with 7.0 litres per 100km for the lighter and simpler two-wheel drive CR-V S and E variants.
Like the 2.0-litre CR-V e:HEV RS hybrid, the V grade’s interior has a high quality look with smooth, polished surfaces, soft touch materials and nice fit and finish.
The 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, leather seats and faux wood trim also lend a classy look.
Storage compartments like door bins and seatback pockets provided convenient spaces for smaller items.
The cabin is well insulated from external noise – which enabled us to better enjoy the excellent sound quality from the 8-speaker audio system.
Other features include automatic LED headlights, hands-free power tailgate with walkaway close, 18-inch wheels, Remote engine start, Smart Entry with Push Start Button, Walk Away Auto Lock, Paddle Shifters, cruise control and 7-inch TFT meter cluster.
Also included are some items which are also available in the 2.0-litre hybrid are eight airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Auto Brake Hold, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), 360-degree multi-view camera, Reverse Auto Tilt Mirror, Honda LaneWatch Camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), Honda CONNECT and Honda SENSING.
We liked the RM181,900 V grade for delivering a smooth and refined driving experience, its well-appointed interior, impressive handling capabilities and charming mix of satisfying power, premium comfort and practicality.
Honda CR-V 1.5L Turbocharged (V grade)
Engine: 1,498cc 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC VTEC Turbo, direct fuel injection
Maximum power: 193PS at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque: 243Nm from 1,700 to 5,000rpm
Transmission: Continuous variable transmission (CVT)
Suspension: Front MacPherson struts; rear multi-link
Kerb weight: 1,668kg
Drive system: All wheel drive (AWD)
Fuel tank: 57 litres
Fuel economy: 7.5 litres per 100km
Features: Automatic LED headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights and front fog lights, Front LED Sequential Turn Signals, rear LED Combi Lights, Hands-free power tailgate with walkaway close, 18-inch wheels, Remote engine start, Smart Entry with Push Start Button, Walk Away Auto Lock, Paddle Shifters, cruise control, 7-inch TFT meter cluster, Dual Auto Air Conditioning, rear air-conditioning vents, leather seats, powered front seats, memory seat, 2nd row sliding seat, automatic front wiper, wireless charger (15W), 3 USB-C and 1 USB-A ports, 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto, 8 audio speakers, Active Noise Control
Safety features: Eight Airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Agile Handling Assist (AHA), Auto Brake Hold, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), front and rear parking sensors, 360-degree multi-view camera, Reverse Auto Tilt Mirror, Honda LaneWatch Camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), Honda CONNECT (Safety, Security, Convenience)
Advanced safety features: Honda SENSING suite includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Auto High Beam, Lead Car Departure Notification, Driver Attention Monitor
Price: RM181,900 on the road without insurance
Warranty: 5 years warranty with unlimited mileage; free labour service up to 5 times within 100,000km or 5 years
