First-class efficiency: Honda CR-V

Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated launched the all-new CR-V not too long ago.

The popular crossover sport utility vehicle (SUV) has been one of the top choices for many Filipino car buyers thanks to its roomy interior, advanced technological features, peppy engine, and its ability to provide its owners with a comfortable ride.

On that note, the local arm of the Japanese carmaker took members of the motoring media out on a two-day trip from Manila to Bataan and Subic, then back to Manila aboard the sixth-generation Honda CR-V.

Here’s our perspective as we sat behind the wheel.

Efficiency at its finest

The Honda CR-V proved to be a highly capable ride as it conquered city roads and provincial highways during the two-day trip. And while it offered more than enough power to see us through uphill climbs and fast-paced driving, it still proved to be a fuel-efficient ride.

On our time driving the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV variant, we were able to clock in at an impressive 17.2 kilometers per liter, proving that taking a long trip doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank — fuel-wise, that is.

The said model is equipped with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine (which makes a maximum of 145 horsepower) paired with dual motors (that puts out a maximum of 181 horses) and a lithium-ion battery. The said electrically-assisted powertrain setup is mated to an electronically continuously variable transmission.

Confidence booster

The Honda CR-V is a good enough ride that it can give drivers — both beginners and seasoned veterans alike — a boost in confidence when taking on challenging driving situations.

Part of the two-day trip was a drive through the mountain roads of Bataan. Littered with zigs, zags, twists, and sharp turns, the tight thoroughfare leading to Rancho Bernardo was something that could have come straight out of an Initial D manga.

Despite the challenge presented by the road, the Honda CR-V — specifically the VX Turbo CVT AWD (all-wheel drive) variant — handled really well and felt firmly planted to the ground. Its real-time all-wheel drive drivetrain performed admirably with traction and power delivered on all four wheels.

Speaking of which, the Honda CR-V is not your typical paved road princess. The said four-wheel drive system helped the car brave not just concrete and asphalt but also allowed it to take on rough roads that were required to get to scenic locations.

And while we’re on the topic of beauty…

A real looker

The Honda CR-V is a real looker. It dons a mature look with modern minimalist vibes.

At its front are LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights that flank its bold honeycomb grille. Its side profile flaunts a simple, clean look but is highlighted by a set of 18-inch wheels that can come in either silver or black — depending on the variant. The rear comes with aggressive-looking taillamps, a large window, reflectors on each side, and a power liftgate.

Creature comfort aplenty

The Honda CR-V is also packed with modern creature comfort features that can make both short and long journeys a breeze.

These include comfortable seats for both the front and rear occupants, a 10.2-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen display with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, intelligent dual- and tri-zone automatic air conditioning system, a wireless charging dock, and a panoramic sunroof.

We also wanted to commend Honda for adding these wood appliques inside the cabin that gives the crossover a more mature vibe. Seriously, it feels like cigar-puffing moustache daddy Tom Selleck would approve of it. 

Safe, family-friendly

It’s not difficult to imagine riding with your family in the Honda CR-V. Not only is it a capable and comfortable ride, but most importantly, it is also a safe one.

The car packs active and passive safety technologies such as vehicle stability assist, hill start assist, hill descent control, an anti-lock brake system, electronic brake force distribution, adaptive cruise control, low-speed follow, a collision mitigation braking system, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and lane departure warning, among others.

Final thoughts

Having driven the latest iteration of the Honda CR-V, it’s easy to picture why many Filipino motorists have fallen in love with the nameplate.

There’s definitely a Honda CR-V for everyone, whether it’s for daily work commutes, weekend getaways, or for riding a vehicle that leaves less carbon footprint.

The all-new Honda CR-V is offered in three variants: V Turbo CVT, VX Turbo CVT AWD, and RS e:HEV CVT. They are priced at P2.1 million, P2.28 million, and P2.59 million, respectively.

Photos from Juan Paulo Papa

Also read: 

Old vs. new: What are the upgrades on all-new Honda CR-V?

Honda genuine accessories for all-new CR-V now available

Honda Cars PH plans to sell 300 all-new CR-V units monthly