2007 Honda CRV

The all new Honda CRV is here and it looks great. Powered by Honda’s highly efficient 2.4-litre, DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cyl engine (Ultra Low Emission Vehicle and Euro4 compliant), the new CRV puts out a respectable 125kW @ 5800 rpm, 218Nm @ 4200 rpm.

Introduced to Australian consumers in late 1997, the original CRV was powered by a 2.0-litre 94kW engine and was made in Japan. Times have changed and Honda have updated the look and the style of the new car, plus it now comes out of Honda’s factory in Thailand, the same factory that produces the Honda Accord (not the Accord euro though, thats made in Japan).

Driven via a 6-speed manual or 5 Speed automatic (optional) with Grade Logic control, the new CRV employs Drive-by-Wire (DBW) throttle technology for the first time.

The car also comes standard with Honda’s Real Time 4WD™ system as well as Vehicle Stability Assist and advanced Logic 4-channel ABS system with EBD and BA.

As far as safety goes, the new CRV is equipped with dual front i-SRS airbags, front side SRS airbags with OPDS and Front active headrests. Other standard options include

• Cruise control
• Manual air conditioning
• Security alarm
• 5 x 3 point seat belts
• 17″ steel wheels
• Tilt and telescopic steering
• Centre console
• Single CD tuner with MP3/WMA CD playback capability and auxiliary jack
• Steering wheel audio controls

We will shortly have our hands on the new Honda CRV for a road test, but in the mean time, it is evident to us that Honda have taken the compact 4WD market seriously with a completely redesigned car.

Prices start at $31,990 for the manual base model wagon (plus on roads) and go all the way to $41,990 for the Luxury automatic wagon. Fuel consumption figures are quoted at a combined (city/highway) rate of 10-litres/100km.