2018 Honda CR-V Touring AWD: The Brand's Roomier And More Premium CUV/SUV

Highlight: In 2017, the Honda CR-V earned the highest possible safety rating of ‘Top Safety Pick Plus.’

Test Vehicle’s MSRP: $35,025 (Base model $25,245)

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: ABS; airbags; a multi angle rearview camera; a hill start assist system; a compact spare tire; a tire pressure monitoring system; a stability control system; and daytime running lights

Standard Equipment (LX): 17-inch wheels; front wheel drive; an automatic climate control system; black door handles; manually adjusted front seats; cloth seats; a manually operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a rear seat armrest; electric parking brakes with a hold feature; a power tail gate lock; and an automatic climate control system

Standard Equipment (Touring): 18-inch wheels; a 1.5-liter engine; 190-horsepower engine; a push button ignition starter system; a dual automatic climate control system; illuminated vanity mirrors; front passenger seat back pocket; heated front seats; a memory operated power driver’s seat; a power passenger seat; leather seats; a leather wrapped steering wheel and shift knob; an automatic dimming rearview mirror; a body colored roofline spoiler with an integrated brake light; body colored door handles; a rear privacy glass; a power moonroof; foglights; heated outside mirrors; rain-sensing wipers; roof rails; dual chrome exhaust finishers; heated front seats; power driver’s seat with memory control setting; power passenger seat; leather seats; a 7-inch infotainment screen; Apple/Android smartphone integration; a 9-speaker, 180-watt audio system; SiriusXM radio; HD radio; USB charging ports; a navigation system; a lane keep assist system; a radar activated cruise control system; an automatic high beam headlight system; and a blind spot information system with a cross traffic alert system

Options On Test Vehicle: none

Other Trim Level:

LX
EX
EX-L

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 4-speaker, 160-Watt AM/FM radio

Bluetooth Connectivity: Yes

USB Connectivity: Yes

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Standard Engine/Horsepower: 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder/184-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage:
26-city/32-hwy

What’s New: This is the second year for Honda’s restyled fifth generation CR-V.

Why: The larger and more stylish compact crossover is available in four trim levels. The larger size has resulted in more interior space and cargo room.

Basically, in every sense, this Honda is better than the model it replaced. The restyled vehicle was introduced during the 2017 model year. It is Honda’s best-selling crossover/SUV. The five passenger vehicle is available in a front wheel drive or a rear wheel drive configuration.

Unlike its predecessor, the CR-V is now available with a turbocharged engine. Also all but the base LX trim includes the following standard driver assistance features. Those features include a road departure mitigation system and a radar activated cruise control system.

The overall ride and handling capabilities have been improved too.

Moreover, the redesign CR-V offers the latest features to help the occupants stay connected with technology. Depending upon the trim, the vehicle is compatible with smartphones for both Android and Apple CarPlay. The vehicle offers USB ports too.

And, with the new design, the CR-V offers more premium features. In this new model one can expect such features as electric brakes, a power passenger (front) seat, a dual zone ventilation system and a remote start system.

But: Why isn’t a wireless charger available, as in the case of some of its competitors? It would not hurt if the interior design team adds knobs to the infotainment system, making it easier to navigate.

Verdict: Honda has another hit on their hands with the CR-V being in its second model year run, under the design theme, big is better. Honda is playing in a very competitive field, where the redesign Equinox is going toe-to-toe with them this year. Also Toyota just upped its game, unveiling an update RAV4 which will soon be hitting dealerships. So, as you can see, buyers in this segment will have a number of great vehicles to select from. Honda made the right move to go big, while adding more premium features buyers are craving.

Competition: Chevy Equinox; Ford Edge; GMC Terrain; Hyundai Tucson; Kia Sportage; Mazda CX-5; Nissan Rogue; and Toyota RAV4