Honda unveils new CR-V

Honda has unveiled its fifth-generation CR-V, a family SUV set to take on key rivals such as the Mazda CX-5 and Volkswagen Tiguan.

The new machine follows the styling direction established by the latest Honda Civic, a sharper, more focused outlook with slim headlights and a new grille capable of opening and closing automatically to minimise drag.

Under the bonnet, the CR-V features the same turbocharged 1.5-litre engine as the new Honda Civic sedan. US models are set to receive a 142kW tune, well more than the 127kW used in Australian Civic models, though local specifications for the CR-V have not yet been confirmed.

Entry-level models are likely to carry on with a 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine. The car will be equipped with a CVT automatic transmission and a choice of front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive traction.

Honda has taken the CR-V upmarket with technology such as a powered tailgate with a foot-operated sensor, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a suite of driver aids including autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, lane keeping assistance and more.

The brand responded to criticism by re-introducing a physical volume knob (recent models featured capacitive-touch plastic), though the choice of 17-inch or 18-inch wheels look a little under-done next to the optional 20-inch hoops of Volkswagen's latest Tiguan.  

The new CR-V is set to arrive locally in the second half of 2017, with full Australian details set to be confirmed closer to its launch date.

• For more information, visit our Honda showroom.