Honda brings the CR-V back: the new crossover is more expensive, roomier and noticeably more grown up
Honda has launched the new sixth-generation CR-V. For the brand, this is no minor model: since 1995 the CR-V has sold around 15 million units worldwide and become one of the key SUVs in Honda’s line-up.
The new crossover follows the «Kando CR-V» concept, which can be literally translated as «emotional CR-V» or «CR-V that moves you». But behind the name there are quite practical changes. Honda has reworked the driver’s seating position, visibility, the rear seats and the boot — that is, the things the owner feels every day, not only on a test drive.
The angle of the steering column has been changed from 28 to 25 degrees. This should make the seating position more natural and improve control of the car. Rear legroom has been increased by 16 mm, and the second-row backrests now offer eight-step recline adjustment. A small figure, but in a family crossover it matters more than yet another decorative pack: passengers on long trips notice an awkward seating position faster than the shape of the bumper.
The boot has been given a flat floor and a wide opening. The rear bench can be slid to increase usable volume. For 4WD versions, heated front and rear seats are now standard, and the top-spec e:HEV RS Black Edition adds ventilation for the front seats.
Externally the CR-V keeps recognisable cues, including vertical rear lights, but looks more serious and substantial. Inside there’s a horizontal dashboard and straight trim lines. Honda clearly hasn’t chased an overloaded «digital» architecture: the focus is on visibility and clear ergonomics.
The line-up consists of two trims. The base for the new generation is the e:HEV RS, with body-coloured sporty cladding for the lower body. Above it sits the e:HEV RS Black Edition — a Japan-specific version with black accents inside and out. It additionally gets a head-up display, a powered panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats.
Japanese prices have already been announced. The Honda CR-V e:HEV RS with front-wheel drive is priced at 5,122,700 yen, while the e:HEV RS 4WD comes in at 5,392,200 yen. The most expensive CR-V e:HEV RS Black Edition is available only with all-wheel drive and is priced at 5,779,400 yen.
The new CR-V isn’t trying to wow anyone with a single headline number. Its bet is different: more space, richer equipment and a clear hybrid format in the form of e:HEV. For buyers who remember the CR-V as a practical family SUV, this return looks almost free of experiments — just with a higher price tag.