Honda CR-V 200i i-VTEC
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While I was testing this recreational vehicle from Honda a gentleman once walked up to me when the car was parked and started talking to me about Hondas.
It was quite obvious that this man was a Honda enthusiast because his 1996 Honda Ballade, which was parked next to the CR-V, was in an impeccable condition.
He asked me about the CR-V and it was clear that the CR-V was the car of his dreams. Enthusiastically he told me that this is what he will buy if he ever wins the Lotto.
And that made me realise that Honda is still a trusted name in South Africa with a loyal following. People still respect Honda.
I'll be bold an honest about this as well - it has probably has a lot to do with the fact the Mercedes was responsible for Honda in South Africa for almost two decades.
These days South African Hondas are independent from its previous German guardian and the brand has to fight its own battles. But Honda has all the right elements to do a solo act.
The new CR-V was introduce locally last year and it has big shoes to fill because the previous generation was quite a hit in South Africa if one looks at the number of CR-V's on our roads.
Design
It has a complete new design but there is still styling cues of the previous model. The new design is more grown-up, but my impression is that it doesn't have the same cute appearance as its predecessor.
Although it has a new design, the concept is still the same. The CR-V still has a presence thanks to the prominent headlights, which is a typical Honda design cue.
Honda makes use of very dark colours for the interior and it is bit too sombre. On the other hand it is very practical especially if the CR-V is used as a family car.
The instrument panel is uncluttered with a simple design and all controls are easy to use.
The CR-V also has everything that opens and closes. There are no fewer than 21 oddment areas in the cabin, including a foldaway centre storage tray.
It is obvious that the new CR-V is also bigger and there's lots of room with more than enough space for five adults.
The nice thing about a car like the CR-V is the high driving position and this is especially an advantage in town (or at shopping malls) where the CR-V will spend most of its time.
Another useful feature is the two-way tailgate - it can be opened as one unit or the glass hatch can be opened separately. The spare wheel is mounted on the tailgate and has a neat hard cover.
What I didn't like about the rear mounted spare wheel is that it created, together with the three rear head rests, a nasty blind spot for shorter persons.
Engine and handling
The CR-V's 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine is quick and smooth with an output of 110kW and 192Nm torque. The torque level could have been better but otherwise the engine is lively and very capable for city driving.
The i-VTEC system enables the engine to adjust the valve timing according to load, and it also means enhanced efficiency and lower emissions.
Handling on tarmac is good and the CR-V has the driving dynamics of a sedan. Despite its height and size it doesn't feel that big at all. The response of steering wheel is good and the ride is smooth.
Although the CR-V is not a rugged off-roader the front-wheel drive will automatically switch to all-wheel drive when necessary for example in slippery conditions.
Conclusion
The CR-V's most important rivals are the Land Rover Freelander and the Toyota RAV4. These two soft-roaders are more for the image-conscious drivers but the Honda brand is very respectable.
Although not as funky as its rivals the CR-V is functional and will appeal to certain car buyers.
The CR-V isn't a sparkling off-roader as well but I think it is a good alternative as a family car. Its towing capabilities won't be bad as well.
The build quality is good and it's a pleasure to drive. Thanks to the CR-V's loads of space and practicality it will probably be a hit amongst families. The CR-V will definitely attract Honda fans but it also has enough charisma to attract new loyal followers.
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