With distinctive style and advanced safety, the new Honda CR-V sets the bar for the SUV segment 

The popularity of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) has surged in the last 20 years. With consumers continually drawn to these vehicles that boast space, comfort and higher ground clearance, SUVs have become the preferred choice for most drivers, especially those with families.

Although the SUV market truly came alive in the last 10 years, the late 1990s and 2000s were when these vehicles established their presence in the automotive market. Throughout that time, the Honda CR-V managed to maintain its position as one of the top choices in the market.

Introduced to the world in 1995, the mid-range SUV gained a reputation for its appealing design, spacious cabin and performance. It was a vehicle that offered good looks as well as optimal fuel efficiency, great handling characteristics and top-notch safety.

On the home front, the CR-V was the first completely knocked-down (CKD) model introduced by Honda Malaysia in 2003.To date, more than 104,000 units of the SUV have been sold in the country, a number that will surely rise with the new Honda CR-V.
 

The new CR-V is highly fashionable and stylish, thanks to its refreshed styling cues. Exuding a tough yet modern design, the model boasts several upgrades such as redesigned 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, a new black grille combined with Honda Signature LED lights along with a revised front bumper and a new wing-style chrome fascia. New smoked finish tail lights, twin tail pipe in chrome finish along with a rear bumper garnished with a new wing-style chrome fascia further extends the design of the model, gifting it a bold and muscular appearance. The new CR-V is made available in Lunar Silver Metallic, Passion Red Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic, Dark Olive Metallic and Platinum White Pearl.
 

Inside, the new CR-V exudes style and sophistication, with an interior designed to provide convenience and comfort for passengers. The spacious and roomy cabin is thoughtfully designed with usability and versatility in mind. The adjustable multi-function centre console can be configured to secure large and small items for more efficient space management. The addition of folding seats helps to enhance space within the vehicle, which is especially useful when transporting large items. Dual-zone air conditioning helps keep things cool and calm for all occupants while the driver is put in a commanding position with the CR-V's digital dashboard display relaying all the necessary information at a glance.
 

The CR-V's reputable ride and handling characteristics is again underlined in the new model, courtesy of proven engines. The all-rounder SUV is currently available in three variants - the 2.0L 2WD, 1.5L TC-P 2WD and 1.5L TC-P 4WD. All are paired with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. The top-of-the-range variant - powered by a 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine producing power and torque of up to 193PS and 243Nm - is coupled with a 4WD system, making it perfectly adaptable to a variety of road conditions and journeys.

With its role as a family vehicle firmly established, Honda has ensured that the new CR-V offers the very best in comprehensive protection. In addition to a host of active and passive standard safety features, which has helped give the model a five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, the 1.5L TC-P 2WD and 1.5L TC-P 4WD variants are also equipped with a full suite of Honda SENSING features. The advanced safety and driver-assist systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) and Auto High Beam (AHB) are designed to keep you as collision-free as possible on the road.

The Honda CR-V has always had best-in-class features and the latest model continues with that tradition to ensure a first-class driving experience for owners. Among the key features is the remote engine start, allowing drivers to switch on the engine and air conditioning via the smart key. The smart key can also remotely retract the door mirrors for additional convenience while the hands-free power tailgate allows owners to activate the tailgate via foot motion towards the hands-free access sensor housed under the rear bumper.

With these new class-leading features, a stylish and well-thought-out design, the new CR-V will no doubt maintain its position as one the most preferred SUV models. Perfect for both leisure as well as an exhilarating drive, it remains the SUV to beat in the current automotive market.

The new Honda CR-V is priced from RM139,912 to RM162,910. For more information log onto www.honda.com.my.