Honda ditches diesel to go hybrid with its new CR-V - and for the first time it comes with a magnificent seven seats
Honda is launching a new green hybrid version of its CR-V family sports utility vehicle as it ditches its frugal diesel model of what it hails as the world’s best-selling SUV.
And for the first time the all-new sixth-generation CR-V will also have the option of seven-seats when it is officially launched at next week’s Geneva Motor Show ahead of first deliveries this autumn, with the hybrid model following early next year.
But don’t expect anything radical in the styling department with design determinedly ‘evolutionary’ rather than revolutionary.
Going green: For the first time Honda's CR-V family SUV will be available with a hybrid powertrain in the UK
The Japanese car-maker is the latest motor manufacturer to abandon diesel in the face of attacks by politicians and environmentalists who have recently demomised the fuel - which they once urged motorists to take up because its low CO2 emissions would kerb climate change - leading to a slump in diesel sales generally.
The move is significant as the CR-V is the bread and butter vehicle for millions of families – with more than 9 million sold since the model first went on sale in Japan in 1995, with 270,689 bought by UK drivers since 1996.
The outgoing CR-V is currently being built at Swindon, as were some others, but the new sixth-generation model will be built in Japan as the UK manufacturing hub concentrates on Civic production for the global market.
The Japanese car-maker confirmed on Wednesday morning that 'for the first time ever, Honda hybrid technology will be offered in an SUV for Europe'.
The all-new CR-V will be available with Honda’s Intelligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD) hybrid system comprising a 2.0-litre i-VTEC Atkinson cycle petrol engine and two electric motors.
This promises to deliver ‘real-world efficiency and effortless driveability’, according to the Japanese brand.
The 6th generation CR-V - due to go on sale later this year - will also have a 7-seat option for the first time
Inside, the upright dashboard is designed to give the feeling of more cabin with and extra leg room for driver and passenger
There'll also be a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo petrol engine which Honda says will provide strong performance and class-leading fuel economy.
The petrol and hybrid powertrains are front-wheel drive as standard, but both can be specified with Honda’s latest intelligent and real time all-wheel drive technology which it says gives the CR-V genuine all-terrain capability.
Also making it more usable offroad is an increase in ground clearance by 38mm for all variants, up to a height of 208mm for the 4X4 petrol model.
A magnificent seven seats option means that families will be able to take extra passengers on shorter journeys.
Honda said: ‘For the first time ever, CR-V will be available with the option of seven seats. Where selected, the third row offers exceptional leg room and heel step height, as well as a 101-degree seat angle to ensure long-distance passenger comfort.’
There’s more room inside for occupants as the new CR-V boasts a slightly larger and roomier interior than its predecessor, thanks to a longer wheelbase and wider stance.
Honda admitted the design was evolutionary rather than revolutionary, which is why it looks similar to the model it replaces
Prices are expected to be between about £24,000 and £37,000 when it goes on sale in the UK later this year
The boot is also wider and deeper with a longer load bay. A new two-position boot floor gives a flat surface for loading larger items, while a special hands-free power tailgate makes loading up easier..
Move further forward into the front seats and you'll notice a horizontal dashboard layout - with two seven-inch displays - that is designed to accentuate width and highlight a more spacious cabin. The controls have also been simplified.
What's the damage for Honda's latest model? Prices are expected to be between about £24,000 and £37,000 when it goes on sale in the UK later this year.
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