Honda to introduce seven-seat CR-V in July

Honda's next-generation of CR-V will arrive around six weeks from now, powered exclusively by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder and offering a seven-seat configuration for the first time.

The new engine, which will be coupled exclusively to a continuously variable transmission, will match the power of the 2.4-litre atmo engine in the current model, Honda claims.

"Unlike most competitors, the all-new Honda CR-V offers an advanced 140kW VTEC Turbo engine as standard across the range, which delivers a fine balance of power and efficiency to every customer," says Honda Australia Director, Stephen Collins.

And while there will be a price increase coinciding with the introduction of the new model, that will be offset by added equipment across the range, says Collins.

"The all-new CR-V represents brilliant value, especially for customers looking for a premium SUV experience for under $35,000. In fact, the entry VTi grade in the new CR-V range more closely matches the previous generation VTi-S, while adding $3700 of value over its predecessor."

Among these new features are keyless entry, Active Noise Control, dual-zone climate control, alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Pricing starts from $30,690 for the five-seat CR-V VTi at entry level. This model is front-wheel drive only, and the one variant in this grade. For the money, the VTi model comes with standard keyless entry/start, Active Noise Control, dual-zone climate control, reversing camera, seven-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Driver Attention Monitor, tyre pressure monitoring, trailer stability assist, eight-speaker audio, electric parking brake, front fog lights, LED daytime running lights, 17-inch alloy wheels and a full-size spare. Honda estimates the new standard features add $3700 of value to the car's specification, for a $900 price increase totalling a nett gain to the consumer of $2800.

Also a five-seater, the CR-V VTi-S is $2600 dearer, adding a further $2200 for the all-wheel drive option. Standard features fitted in addition to the VTi specification include 18-inch alloy wheels, electric tailgate, integrated satellite navigation, front/rear parking sensors and Lane Watch. Costing $1000 more than its predecessor the front-wheel drive VT-S offers $2100 better value, according to Honda, with the extra features worth $3100 in retail terms.

The CR-V VTi-L is the sole seven-seat variant in the range and is front-wheel drive only. Honda rates this variant as $4150 better value, taking into account the extra equipment – worth $3850 – and a $300 price cut. Standard features over and above the VTi-S grade comprise the seven seats, a panoramic sunroof, leather-appointed upholstery for the seats, heated front seats and rains-sensing wipers. The front seats are also electrically adjustable, with the driver's seat adjustable in eight directions with position memory and the passenger's seat adjustable in four directions.

As the flagship of the range, the CR-V VTi-LX is an all-wheel drive, five-seat variant that has come down in price to the tune of $1500. Add $4350 worth of additional equipment and the range-topping model notches up a $5850 bonus for the consumer, Honda says.

Standard features over the VTi-L include new driver-assist technology, LED headlights with active cornering lights, LED front fog lights, digital radio (DAB+), privacy glass and an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror.

"Twenty years ago the first generation Honda CR-V redefined the segment by delivering space, efficiency and versatility in a compact package. One that Australian families had never seen before," says Collins.

"Our customers consistently tell us what a joy their CR-Vs are to live with and the fifth generation builds on this reputation with new levels of style, versatility, technology and value.

"The all-new CR-V is bolder and more stylish than ever, and in true Honda fashion it nails the brief for versatility with more interior space plus a new seven seat option."

Honda CR-V pricing
VTi five-seat 2WD – $30,690 (+ $900)
VTi-S five-seat 2WD – $33,290 (+ $1000)
VTi-S five-seat AWD – $35,490 (+$200)
VTi-L seven-seat 2WD – $38,990 (- $300)
VTi-LX five-seat AWD – $44,290 (- $1,500)