Overall rating: 3.5/5
Honda has downsized the CR-V SUV's engine for improved economy and emissions, at the same time adding a new nine-speed automatic transmission and some more chrome around the front grille. It's as impressive as ever, only improved, which is kind of the point.
In the metal 3/5
Always a handsome, well-proportioned SUV, there are no surprises in Honda's mid-life refresh of the CR-V. It features wider bumpers, LEDs in the taillights and more chrome around the front grille. Nothing too dramatic, though some might find the CR-V's nose a little bit 'busy' visually.
Inside, Honda promises improved material quality, though it's pretty difficult to spot in isolation - it's all nicely finished enough as ever. The big news in the cabin is the fitment of a new seven-inch touchscreen in the centre console. It has all the functionality and connectivity you'd expect and it's all fairly simple to use too. There's more sound deadening in the doors for an improvement in refinement, while the interior's functionality and ample space remain unchanged - and a major part of the CR-V's appeal.
Driving it 3.5/5
The biggest changes to Honda CR-V centre on what the company has put under the bonnet. The old range-topping 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine has been binned and replaced by a more powerful version of the 1.6-litre turbodiesel - already sold as the 1.6 i-DTEC in 120hp guise. Power increases to 160hp thanks to the addition of a second turbocharger. That allows the 1.6-litre engine to offer all the performance of the bigger, outgoing 2.2-litre unit, yet return far better economy and emissions. The entry-level manual car will emit just 129g/km, bettering the 2.2 model's 144g/km by quite some margin.
In automatic guise, as tested here, there's a new nine-speed automatic transmission. Not only do the extra ratios enhance efficiency, but the combination of engine and gearbox is considerably lighter than before. Combined consumption improves to 5.1 litres/100km, while CO2 emissions of 134g/km put it in Band B2 for tax (the old auto version emitted 169g/km for Band D tax).
All those gears might suggest a busy transmission, but you'll not notice it doing its thing such is its smoothness. There are paddles should you feel the need to shift gears for yourself, but there's no benefit to be gained from doing so. The engine does a fine job too, its ample torque making light work of the CR-V, allowing it to reach 100km/h in 10 seconds dead from rest. Honda says it has worked on the suspension for improved agility, while a tweaked steering rack promises greater fun in the bends, but that doesn't really materialise. It's competent enough, but you'd have more fun in a Ford Kuga, the Honda's ample body roll also quelling any enthusiasm in the bends before the car actually runs out of ability. That does mean it rides decently enough, which, for most buyers, will be more important.
What you get for your money 4/5
The CR-V has always been on the more expensive end of the price spectrum, top line models perilously near the premium players in this marketplace. However, it is well-equipped. The new 160hp 1.6-litre diesel engine is likely to only be offered with all-wheel drive, and it costs from €37,495 in manual guise. That goes on sale in mid-March in Ireland and is nearly €2,000 cheaper than the equivalent 2.2-litre model of old. The automatic car comes on stream in June, starting at €39,995 - that's €4,000 less than before.
Amongst the optional equipment s what Honda is calling a world first in its Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, a system that predicts cars cutting in on it.
Worth Noting
For maximum economy there's an ECON button that changes the throttle mapping for a smoother increase in torque. Always practical, the CR-V's massive boot is a cinch to increase space in thanks to one-touch drop-down seats. That leaves a completely flat loading space.
Summary
Honda's CR-V might not excite those drawn to premium badges, but it's spacious, comfortable and capable, which is really all you could ever ask for. Improved economy and greater refinement also add appeal, which is why the CR-V is deservedly a big worldwide sales success. Here in Ireland, the lower prices of a powerful four-wheel drive model should go down well, though many will still opt for the front-drive versions, which start at just €31,995.
