HONDA CR-V
The fifth-generation of Honda’s bestselling SUV, the CR-V, made its Japanese debut at Tokyo. The new CR-V is based on the same platform as the new Civic and Accord and is marginally larger than the outgoing model in India. Dimensions at 4,571mm long, 1,855mm wide and 1,657mm tall put it in the same league as the Hyundai Tucson, though the CR-V is longer. That’s understood, since it comes with a third row of seats for the first time. As a 5+2 seater with more crossoverthan-SUV styling, the CR-V could score points over the competition. The cabin is said to boast of soft-touch materials and a clear attention to detail. Internationally it is offered with a turbo 1.5-litre petrol for the first time which produces 193bhp and 243Nm torque, a turbo 1.6-litre diesel with 160bhp and 350Nm torque, apart from naturally aspirated 2- and 2.4-litre i-VTEC engines already offered in India. Also on offer is a hybrid variant that features the same powertrain as the Accord Hybrid we have - a 2-litre petrol engine, an electric motor for propulsion as well as an electric generator motor. We expect the new 1.6 diesel to be the popular choice for the SUV when it is launched.