The new CR-V operation is of strategic importance for Honda, not only for the fact that this is the model of the Japanese brand historically best-selling in the world, but also because with the update of electrification technologies (new generation full hybrid and European plug-in hybrid preview) the CR-V SUV becomes a strong commercial tool, alongside the new 100% electric models, in the commitment to decarbonization.
But it is not enough. As passionate Honda engineers and especially its top management like. The sixth generation CR-V brings to the European debut Sensing 360, the most advanced omnidirectional system for safety and assisted driving from Tokyo, which includes driver warning for the first time in Europe, for example before a stop or an intersection.
Of course, the arrival of this new CR-V family is also accompanied by a significant improvement in comfort and quality of life on board, as well as the debut of an exterior and interior look that is truly in step with the times.
The sporty and robust design now reinforces the CR-V's presence on the road thanks to a more defined and aggressive styling at the front. Contributing to this is the wide opening of the grille proposed with two different treatments, one for the e:He version and one for the e:Phev version. But also with a 'growth' effect that is materially linked to the longer wheelbase (+ 40 mm) to the greater overall length (+ 140 mm) and to the wider tracks.
At the rear, the combination of brake lights and turn signals is a design evolution that makes the model immediately recognizable and perfectly matches the modern design of the front headlamps. Aerodynamics have also been improved with visible and invisible solutions (such as the work done in the underbody), reducing drag and optimizing fuel efficiency. Tom Gardner, senior vice president of Honda Motor Europe, said: "The new CR-V has all the hallmarks of this iconic model and this sixth generation represents SUV excellence. A unique and dynamic product that fully meets the current needs of the European market". As we were able to appreciate in an extensive test on the roads around Porto, Portugal, the CR-V is also evolving - and not just - in the dynamic behavior that is now comparable with that of the best premium models in the segment. This is mainly due to the increased rigidity of the platform, the introduction of a new die-cast aluminium subframe that optimises the geometry of the front suspension and a new steering control unit.
Together with the qualities of the advanced traction system that is electronically managed to avoid loss of grip (we have verified this on pavé sections and dirt roads) the result is better dynamic behavior with superior feedback on the steering wheel. The CR-V now offers – along with safety at higher speeds – the lightness and agility at city speeds (with instant responses to driver input) that are indispensable in most situations of use.
Precisely depending on the profile of the average user of CR-V, our test focused on the front-wheel drive e:Hev version that supports (starting from 49,900 euros of the Ele trimgance) the CR-V e: Phev, that is the plug-in hybrid with 82 km of autonomy in electric that in the Advance trim is listed at 59,900 euros. In Italy the full hybrid e: Hev model is also offered with all-wheel drive in the Elegance Awd levels at 51,900 euros and Advance Awd at 54,900 euros.
The CR-V e:HEV features Honda's most advanced 184 hp full-hybrid engine, which is now mated to a newly developed automatic transmission that includes a dual electric motor. The propulsion unit and the generation unit are now on separate axles so as to allow a 6.5% increase in torque to 335 Nm. The engine rotational speed has been increased by 7% and now reaches up to 14,500 rpm.
Another novelty, which is appreciated especially in Engine Drive mode is the second (low) ratio present in the transmission that is activated when the engine is directly connected to the wheels. The result - which makes driving on cornering tracks more fun - is an improvement in driving force at low speeds or when more inspiration is needed.
CR-V e:Hev 2wd sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 9 seconds for the 2WD and 9.4 models with the AWD versions and the top speed rises to 194 and 187 km/h respectively. The hybrid system has also improved in terms of CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. They are equal to 134 g/km and 5.9 l/100 km for the 2wd and 151 g/km versions and 6.7 l/100 km for the AWD versions.
Photo story Honda CR-V e:Hev - Photos - Ansa.it
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