Honda North America recently revealed the all-new CR-V and the new model will arrive on South African shores in the second half of 2017!

In July 2016 we published spy photographs of a new CR-V prototype undergoing testing (supplied by our European-based source), which suggested the Honda would be notably bigger than the current car and feature more distinctive exterior styling (especially when viewed from the front).

As expected, the newcomer’s wheelbase is longer, but its overhangs shorter, while a long bonnet, narrower A-pillars and flared fenders give the new CR-V a more sophisticated, athletic presence. The rear aspect is dominated by L-shaped swages in the fenders, sculpture-like taillight clusters that almost converge in the centre of the tailgate, exhaust tips at the extreme ends of the bumper. In North America, the car’s alloys will be either 17- or 18-inch units, complemented by swathes of chrome-look trim along the sides the vehicle, completed by equally-shiny roof rails.

The rear passengers are availed generous levels of leg- and headroom (US market model).

'Best in class rear legroom'

Although this list of features doesn’t necessarily reflect what South African-spec CR-Vs will be specified with, it’s illuminating that the North American vehicles include a Honda-first automatic shutter grille system that lowers aerodynamic drag, a hands-free access electric tailgate that can be opened by moving your foot underneath the rear of the vehicle and automatic wipers and lights, the latter with high-beam assist.

The newcomer is based on a stretched version of the new Civic platform and Honda claims the new CR-V “raises the bar for interior refinement, utility and premium features in the compact SUV class. The more spacious cabin (features) top-in-class interior space and the best rear legroom in its class.”

An all-electronic instrument panel may feature on South African models, but that is still unconfirmed (US market model).

Some of the highlights include a new soft-touch fascia, more intricately stitched (leather) seats, a full-colour TFT driver information display (in the instrument panel), an Apple CarPlay and Android Auto-compatible 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, remote engine start (as on the Civic), dual-zone climate control, heated side mirrors, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), rear USB charging ports, 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat (with 4-way lumbar support) and heated front and rear outboard seats.

Honda Austraila has confirmed that both 5-seater and 7-seater versions of the new CR-V will be launched in 2WD and 4WD format with the former expected to be a best-seller in that market. There is currently no indication that a 7-seater CR-V will be offered in the South African market.

The 1.5-litre turbopetrol should provide more fizz than the outgoing 2.0-litre naturally aspirated motor.

The first turbopetrol CR-V

As is the case with the Civic, the newcomer is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre 4-cylinder engine mated with a continuously variable transmission. InAmerica, a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated motor is offered as well, also in combination with a CVT, which could also be the case in South Africa.

Based on Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, the CR-V “provides more agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance and superior overall versatility,” Honda claims.

The newcomer’s (MacPherson strut and rear multi-link) suspension utilises low-friction dampers, with both FWD and AWD models featuring tubular front and solid rear stabiliser bars. Dual-pinion, variable ratio electric power steering “contributes to the CR-V's direct and satisfying steering feel,” it adds.

Shown here in 5-door configuration, the 2017 CR-V is strong on practicality, especially loading capacity.

A bouquet of safety systems

Along with the usual complement of airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, as well as a stability control system, a bouquet of safety features known as "Honda Sensing" will be available. It includes Collision Mitigation Braking with Forward Collision Warning and pedestrian sensing capability, Road Departure Mitigation with Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist. Additional new driver-assistive technologies include the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) and Auto High Beam (HSS) headlights.

We will keep you updated as soon as local engine and specification details become available.

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Watch Honda North America's introduction videos of the 2017 CR-V:

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