The Honda CR-V will finally make its European debut at the 2018 Geneva International Motor Show. Yes, you read that right, despite it going on sale in Malaysia since July 2017, our friends in Europe will only receive their CR-V September 2018 onwards.
As reported earlier, Europe-bound CR-Vs will be available with two powertrains – a 1.5-litre four-cylinder VTEC Turbo (same unit we are having) and a 2.0-litre i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) hybrid. The VTEC Turbo mill is paired to either a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) or a six-speed manual to deliver a total output of 190 hp and 243 Nm of torque.
The CR-V i-MMD Hybrid, on the other hand, sports a 2.0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC Atkinson Cycle naturally aspirated mill paired to an electric motor producing a total output of 212 hp. Drive is channelled to the axles via a single fixed-gear ratio transmission for a more direct and smoother torque transfer. This also marks Honda’s first-ever hybrid SUV to go on sale in Europe.
Both the petrol and hybrid-powered CR-Vs are available in front-wheel or all-wheel-drive guise. Interestingly, Europe customers will have the option to have their CR-V in either five or seven-seats as offered in Thailand. Honda promises exceptional legroom for the third-row passengers as well as a 101-degree seat angle for greater comfort during long-distance journeys.
First deliveries of Honda CR-V fitted with the 1.5-litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine is expected to commence from September 2018 while hybrid models will follow in early 2019. Consider ourselves lucky to get to roll around in the fourth-generation CR-V so soon!
IAMGE GALLERY
