Details of the new Honda CR-V for ASEAN markets have surfaced before the car’s official unveiling that’s slated to happen soon in Thailand. The new model is a seven seater unlike the previous car that could only seat five.
The new car comes with two engine options, a 2.4-litre petrol motor (carried over from the current model) and for the first time, the CR-V will get a diesel engine, a 158hp 1.6-litre motor. Both engines will be offered with an optional AWD system.
The new CR-V’s design shares a lot of styling cues from cars like the new Civic and the BR-V. Additionally, the CR-V will also get an active grill, a first for Honda. This technology allows for reducing aerodynamic drag, and hence helps boost efficiency. Inside, the car will feature a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that comes loaded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and will make extensive use of soft-touch materials all around. Other notable features on board include a remote engine start, dual-zone climate control, USB charging ports for the second row, a four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat and heated wing mirrors.
The new CR-V is more spacious, both in the passenger compartment and also in terms of boot space; the former thanks to a longer wheelbase.
The CR-V’s low sales in India could be attributed to the fact that Honda doesn’t offer a diesel engine on t. And so, the upcoming model, that offers the option of a diesel engine could very much be what could help Honda bag more buyers, especially given the strong demand for SUVs.