By Ian Strachan.
The Honda CR-V is the Japanese manufacturers largest premium SUV. And, since it first hit the showrooms in 1995 it has become the world’s best selling SUV.
And there are now two different hybrid versions of this capable vehicle available. You can choose from a plug-in hybrid – the e:PHEV, or a full self-charging hybrid – the e:HEV which draws it battery power from regenerative braking, saving the need to plug it in.
I tested the Honda C-RV e:HEV self-charging hybrid in Advance spec, in which battery power supplements Honda’s excellent 2.0 litre 148 PS petrol engine.
The latest CR-V, despite having car-like driving dynamics, has a rugged look, with a purposeful front end and black mesh grille, deep rear bumper, and smart 18-inch grey alloys. The e:HEV comes with four wheel drive.
The CR-V has a smart interior with high quality materials and finish and effective sound-deadening treatment, meaning this is a very quiet car, even when the petrol engine is running.
The inside is an extremely comfortable and airy place to be, helped by the panoramic glass roof. You get the benefit of excellent visibility all round, and the interior uses pleasant trim materials, including leather upholstery. Clear, uncluttered, centrally-placed well-lit instruments and easily accessible controls help the overall feeling of well-being inside the cabin.
Specification is good, with dual-zone climate control, all-round airbags, 12-speaker audio system with DAB radio, Bluetooth and MP3 capability, satellite navigation via a nine-inch touchscreen, Honda’s SENSING system giving you 360-degree monitoring, front and rear parking sensors with rear view camera, front fog lights, powered folding door mirrors, heated and ventilated seats, powered tailgate, smartphone charger and cruise control. An app can help you view fuel and charge levels, and vehicle security from a Smartphone, as well as setting the climate control.
The 2.0 petrol engine is a smooth unit with adequate power across the range. At motorway speeds it feels comfortable, quiet and unfussed. It is linked to a stepless CVT automatic gearbox.
Handling is good, with crisp steering. The suspension set-up is quite soft but bodyroll on cornering is minimal and potholes are effectively absorbed.
The CR-V has made a good impression on the market to date and this Hybrid version, with all the sustainable benefits it brings, will do it no harm, particularly with good engine options. It looks good, has a nice driving environment with a high driving position, and good performance.
The Honda CR-V Advance e:HEV hybrid comes at a competitive £50,470 on the road. My test car had metallic Crystal Red paintwork at an extra £1,045.
