Honda's new CR-V off-roader hits Irish dealerships on October 26, at a starting price of €37,785. That's significantly lower than the car it replaces, while also offering buyers a more efficient model with a higher standard specification.
At launch the new CR-V will be offered with four-wheel drive only and a single 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine option in both manual and automatic guises. By the end of 2013 a front-wheel drive variant powered by a new 1.6-litre turbodiesel engine will come on stream.
The base SE model comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, USB and aux-in connectivity, dual-zone climate control, LED daytime running lights, cruise control and electric windows all-round. The ES model, starting at €39,495, adds Bluetooth, front fog lights, electrically folding door mirrors, front and rear parking sensors and a rear parking camera, auto lights and wipers and a leather steering wheel. This is likely to account for the majority of sales.
ES Sport, from €41,795, has additional equipment, such as leather and Alcantara upholstery, roof rails and privacy glass, an upgraded stereo, heated front seats, 18-inch alloys and more sophisticated lights including bi-HID Xenon headlamps.
The top of the range CR-V EX features a full leather interior; power adjustment for the driver's seat; satnav; keyless entry and start; a panoramic glass roof; and a powered tailgate. Prices for this version start at €45,095.
On all models, other than the entry-level SE, an automatic transmission adds €5,000 to the cost. Additionally, while the manual Honda CR-Vs are in Band C for tax (with 149- to 154g/km of CO2), the automatics are in Band E, with emissions varying from 174- to 180g/km depending on variant.
The CR-V has been included in the initial list of cars eligible for the 2013 Continental Irish Car of the Year.