Honda CR-V
author: Patrick Vermaak
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Sunset
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Honda philosophy puts the driver at number one and one only has to seat yourself behind the wheel of the third generation CR-V to realize that their intentions are genuine. The leather seats fit like a glove and the user friendly instrumentation combined with the center column mounted gearshift scores big time before you even start the engine.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
All terrain capability
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
User friendly instrumentation
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Outside the Honda CR-V looks “confident” with clean lines and positive “attitude”. Clever improvements retain the practical benefits of an SUV whilst sporty styling and technical advancements ensure admirable off-roading ability, luxury sedan quality and refinement as well as performance car dynamics on the road.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Built to get dirty
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Roadside Art
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With the engine 35mm lower, track widened by 30mm, 225/65R17 tyres and a lighter, stiffer body provides more stability and improved handling. Increased rear suspension travel improves comfort levels and one need not push the vehicle to its limits to appreciate the confident response from the chassis.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Friendly onlooker
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Did we mention it was good looking as well as more efficient with wind noise and economy benefiting from improved under floor aerodynamics , sleeker body and lower centre of gravity. Admittedly it takes a lot of imagination but from the rear the air splitter does power the F1 dream. The cockpit as we mentioned features all the creature comforts including dual-zone climate control and an infinitely adjustable drivers seat, leather upholstery and an electrically operated sun-roof.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Interesting partners
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Stellenbosch orange
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We had the pleasure to test the 2.4L i-VTEC powered version on this occasion mated to a six speed manual gearbox and the powerplant proved at home in both the city and farmlands. Push it hard and it will develop a thirst but at leisure the return compares favourably to a sedan. Real Time 4WD adds to the economy as the system will only be activated when really required and without driver intervention.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Stellenbosch Art
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The Advanced Compatibility Engineering body frame further enhances the already safe CR-V and some of the important safety features include ISOFix child seat anchors, Anti-locking Brakes, Seatbelt pre-tensioners (front driver and passenger), Vehicle Stability Assist, Trailer Stability Assist as well as HID headlights.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
At the end of the line
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
West Coast Welcome
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Driving the Honda through city and countryside for more than 250km left us fresh and relaxed upon arrival every time. Travelling through the oldest town in South Africa, we happened to drive down the oldest public road in South Africa (1679 Dorpstraat), taking in some of the beautiful architecture as well as the unique sight of 393 oak trees wrapped in nearly 4km of orange material. A project masterminded by renowned artist, Strijdom van der Merwe, and needing twelve assistants they completed the tree wrapping on the 1.6km route in three days. Cannot wait to see what the theme will be come July 2009!
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Mudslide
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Somehow the Honda CR-V fitted in well with this fresh outlook on what would otherwise have been leafless trees in winter. In complete contrast the Honda also fitted in well with the Strawberries of Mooiberge, but we avoided getting involved with the Mudslide on offer. It was as comfortable dropping off the kids for a netball clash. Gravel or tar, the West Coast left us with a very positive impression on both comfort and handling.
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Pic by Patrick Vermaak
Stellenbosch orange
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The Honda even attracted a few wolf whistles in admiration, something we have certainly never before experienced in an SUV! Even a visiting rain spider approves.
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