Introduction
Within the global compact SUV market, evergreens are not uncommon. However, finding a model with as significant an impact as the Honda CR-V is challenging. In its 20 years in the Chinese market, the CR-V has pioneered and witnessed the rapid development of China’s SUV sector. It has consistently maintained a top position in SUV sales charts. What makes the Honda CR-V exceptionally remarkable is its sustained competitiveness over the years. It endears itself to consumers with its balanced and comprehensive performance.
Exterior: A Youthful, Energetic Revamp
In terms of appearance, I believe this generation of the CR-V is the most stylish yet. It completely overturns the rounded design philosophy of its predecessor with a plethora of straight lines. These lines create a well-defined sense of angularity, resulting in a remarkably handsome look. To complement the shift in design style, the new Honda CR-V has undergone a comprehensive upgrade in dimensions. Its wheelbase extends to 2700mm.
The slender headlight assembly follows Honda’s latest family design language, integrating horizontal LED strips with the front grille for a sharp and aggressive visual impact. The side profile transitions smoothly, with a continuous waistline extending from the headlamp to the taillight, presenting simplicity and strength. The taillight design, upgraded from traditional concepts and featuring sharp lines, adds a strong sense of sportiness. The black skid plate at the rear and the dual rectangular exhausts also play a significant role.
Interior: Family Design Language with a Neat Layout
The interior adopts Honda’s latest family design, widely applied across its model range, including honeycomb-patterned air vents, a floating control screen, and a multifunctional steering wheel, presenting a familiar ambiance. Despite a lack of novelty in design, the overall look and daily usability leave little room for criticism.
The central control features a 10.1-inch floating screen of appropriate size. It retains physical buttons and knobs on its left, showcasing a “retro yet appealing” design. This design impresses with its user-friendly experience. The Honda CONNECT 3.0 system supports navigation, smartphone connectivity, voice recognition control, Internet of Vehicles, and OTA updates. It fulfills practicality expectations.
Comfort and Configuration: Powerfully Equipped
Given the test drive in a top-tier model, the configuration is impressively comprehensive, including leather seats, driver’s seat memory, adjustable rear seat backrests, a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, an air purifier, and a negative ion generator, to name a few. Even for mid-to-low range models, the Honda CR-V cuts in comfort features are reasonable, making it commendable for a family-oriented compact SUV.
Powertrain: Smooth and Sufficient for Family Use
The powertrain continues with the classic 1.5T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power of 142kW and a peak torque of 243N·m, paired with a CVT transmission and an optional four-wheel-drive system. Despite a modest engine displacement, the performance figures are impressive, with the powertrain partnership proving reliable over the years.
The CVT features a “S” sport mode and a “L” low-speed setting. Despite a somewhat conservative design in the mechanical gear selector, its functionality is comprehensive. Additionally, the vehicle supports three driving modes: standard, ECON, and snow, catering well to daily driving needs.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Over 20 years have swiftly passed, and the Honda CR-V has embraced its sixth generation. Throughout the years, it has maintained a strong competitive edge, continuously evolving to meet the demands of its era. As the era of new energy dawns, traditional fuel vehicles may gradually fade, but some spirits will undoubtedly endure. With an unchanged initial heart and sincere commitment, the Honda CR-V remains an undisputed benchmark in the global compact SUV market, regardless of how the environment changes.