2017 Honda CR-V – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

Mainstream Just Got Upscaled

Four million units sold worldwide is a pretty strong statement about the Honda CR-V. And after two decades since its virgin voyage off the manufacturing line, the all new fifth generation Honda CR-V shows even more promise with lavish styling, quality interior, more room, and the usual bulk of modern tech features.

The Honda CR-V exterior is refreshing and there’s plenty of crisp detailing that helps bring a visual pop to the modern design generation. Standard across all models include a new headlight design surrounded by a wing-shaped LED DRL array as well as 17″‘ or 18″ wheel option configurations. The wider stance, longer chassis length and enlarged wheels makes a significant difference in the visual aesthetics department. There really isn’t anything missing when it comes to comparing exterior styling with its other notable competitors, mainly the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, or Hyundai Santa Fe. Or simply put, the styling is en-point here.

An Interior Worth Craving For

It’s almost an oxymoron to speak of quality when it comes to describing the interior of a Honda specimen, but the CR-V certainly beats the odds. Paneling throughout the cabin area is made up of soft touch material and the leather seats available in the EX-L and Touring model are plenty comfortable too with good back and lateral support.

At an initial glimpse, the CR-V is a big car; especially compared to its previous generation. With that said, there’s no shortage of room either with its cargo space expanded to 39.2 cu-ft behind the rear seats and a total volume of 75.8 cu-ft with the 60/40 split rear seats folded down. This gets you an additional 9.8 inches longer compared to the previous model. Rear seats also provide a decent amount of comfort as well with with 40.4″ of legroom (an additional 2″ compared to the last model).

The Drive

Turbo engines have improved drastically over the years and has since been sought after for its power output linearity and improved fuel efficiency. And by no surprise, the CR-V has jumped on the bandwagon with the introduction of a 1.5L turbocharged DOHC direct-injected inline-4 engine available EX, EX-L and Touring model. Power output is rated at 190 horsepower, and 179 lb-ft of torque with EPA ratings scoring in at 28/34/30 city/high/combined respectively. Opting for the base CR-V LX model will instead; get you the standard 2.4 liter DOHC i-VTEC engine producing 184 peak horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque. All models come equipped with Honda’s in-house CVT transmission while incorporating G-Shift technology that allows you to select three modes of operation for regular driving (D mode), performance sport mode with manual sequential shifting via its steering mounted paddle shifters (S mode), or when driving where engine braking is required for steep descends or mountain highwways (L mode).

Our Touring model equipped with the 1.5L Turbocharged engine translated fairly well on our road test. Sure it was no performance machine, but its road capabilities met our expectations. Steering and handling also felt sharper and more precise compared to previous models and electric steering has been refined to offer more response and feedback around corners. Models equipped with Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System are capable of delivering up to 40 percent of its engine torque to the rear wheels for added stability and traction for slippery and wet road conditions.

Final Thoughts

All that said, our experience with the CR-V didn’t take long to realize that it was meant to make realities meet with the weekend adventurers. Fully reclined front row seats, extended panoramic sunroof that opens up to the night sky along with a plethora of space to crash with the back row seats folded down are evidence that the vehicle was intended to service those with a constant itch for the outdoors.

The base LX model can be had for just $24,045, and the EX for $26,795 that comes equipped with blind spot monitoring, remote keyless entry, 12-way adjustable driver’s seat and a basic infotainment system. The EX model upgrades the audio system with 180 watt 8 speaker system, 4-way power adjustable front seats with memory and HD radio. Finally the Touring model can be had for $32,495 that comes with dual chrome exhaust for a flashier look, upgraded 330 watt audio system, LED headlights, and hands free power tail gate. In other words, the price to pay for opting in on the Touring model really only gets you flashier looks. Those that want to save a bit of extra cash will be plenty happy with the EX or EX-L model equipped with a fuel efficient 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, especially for a budget under the 30k range.

Specifications

• Vehicle : 2017 Honda CR-V
• Model : Honda CR-V Touring
• Vehicle Type : Cross-over SUV
• Seating Capacity : 2+3
• Powertrain Configuration : AWD
• Engine : 1.5L i-V4
• Transmission : CVT with G Shift

Pros

• Excellent exterior styling
• Roomy cabin space
• Fuel efficient and excellent price point.

Cons

• Lack of torque and power from limited 1.5L engine size