No one can deny that the Honda CR-V is one of the most successful SUVs in our market because it has earned consumer trust since its arrival in Mexico 20 years ago. We knew it from its second generation that made its global debut back in 2002.
impresses
By 2023, Honda already has the sixth generation of its medium-sized truck ready, with the aim of fighting more aggressively with its longtime rival, the RAV4, but also getting away with products like Mazda CX-5 or Kia. sorento.
Although it does not change in the mechanical section, it does in terms of its platform, since it debuts the so-called Advanced Compatibility Structure (ACE), the same as its Civic brother, with which it improves in terms of torsional rigidity and consequently to handling.
The engine is the same, it is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that develops 188 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. It maintains the system of opening of variable time of the valves, VTEC. It is coupled to the CVT transmission, which according to Honda, was revised to improve its performance and reduce gear engagement times as well as the use of the Step-Shift system, which simulates the changes of a traditional box.
It is a pity that Honda has not yet decided to bring to the country the hybrid version that is sold in the United States and that uses two electric motors and one Atkinson cycle combustion motor, but if it did, it would surely be out of the market in terms of price.
more aggressive
The change in his image is total. If you look closely, the first one that arrived in Mexico had a more familiar and adventurous style, while the new one denotes more dynamism and more stylized lines. As if that were not enough, there is the size, the first has a total length of 4,535 millimeters while the 2023 model grows to 4,695 millimeters but with the difference that the spare tire is no longer mounted on the fifth door, so its interior has more space.
I was telling you that it looks more sporty than the model it replaces, there is even a radical change in the general lines so I would dare to say that more than an evolution it is a totally different proposal. Viewed from the side you can see a first volume (engine area), longer and thinner, while the A-pillar has a greater inclination and that makes the cabin look more spacious. The front has been completely reconfigured, the grille is larger, with a black finish and more elaborate hatching.
All versions have LED daytime running lights, LED headlights, rear-view mirrors with LED turn signals and a shark antenna. As for the wheels, the Turbo and Turbo Plus versions, the diameter is 18″ while for Touring it is 19″.
Connectivity and comfort
There’s a strong resemblance to its Civic sibling, with the sharp horizontal lines, the honeycomb mesh along the dash, and the controls for the climate control. The multifunction steering wheel is covered in leather, behind it is the cluster that combines digital and analog gauges, and includes a 7” display.
In the center of the dashboard is a 7” color screen for the first two versions, while for Touring it grows to 9”. It has USBA 2.5 and Type C 3.0 ports. It has bluetooth, Bose audio systems with Centerpoint and SurroundStage for Touring, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Data sheet
• Engine: 4 cyl, Turbo, 1.5l
• Power: 188 hp
• Torque: 177 lb-ft
• Transmission: CVT
