12-month test: Honda CR-V 1,5T AWD Exclusive CVT
After 12 months, the CR-V gets our stamp of approval as one of the country’s best midsize SUVS
HONDA’S CR-V traces its roots back to 1995 when production of the first-generation model kicked off. Fast-forward to 2018 and the much-loved CR-V is currently in its fifth iteration. And, as is often the case with well-built older cars, you’ll frequently find firstgeneration CR-VS running about.
This newest version, however, is a vehicle far removed from that initial, somewhat basic example, especially in flagship 1,5T Exclusive AWD CVT guise. Visually, there’s not much to distinguish it from cheaper models but, in addition to their standard equipment, the Exclusive is fitted with a powered tailgate, LED foglamps and auto high beam. More importantly is the list of advanced driver-assist systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning.
Used primarily as a family car by most owners, it’s no surprise the CR-V is one of the most spacious SUVS in the midsize segment; passengers in the rear have copious amounts of head-, shoulder- and legroom. This, thankfully, doesn’t have an effect on luggage space, with the CR-V offering between 408 and 1 328 litres of loading room, the latter with the rear seats folded flat via two levers in the luggage bay.
One of the CR-V’S USPS is the sheer number of ports and sockets spread throughout the cabin. In the front, there are two 12 V sockets, an HDMI socket as well as two USB slots (1,0 and 1,5 A), while the rear houses two 2,5 A USB charging sockets. This makes it a doddle to charge at least two devices simultaneously. In terms of safety, three of the four ports in front are sited in a cubby with a cover, so your smartphone can be hidden from sight while topping up its battery.
Behind the wheel, the wide, leather-trimmed seats are comfortable and supportive, and stay so even after spending hours on the road. A few team members grumbled about the tacky fauxwood trim, though…
I found the high placement