2019 Honda CR-V – Test Drive

August 8, 2019August 8, 2019 Gerald Leung

Ergonomics over Aesthetics

The Honda CR-V favors aesthetics over ergonomics while running extremely fuel efficient with a smaller 1.5L turbochared 4-cylinder engine and a CVT transmission. There’s no compromise in quality either with leather acquainted interior, while comfortably seating 5 with extra legroom in the back row seats thanks to its extended overall length and a box-like frame.

It’s not going to look as sleek or sexy as some of the sub-compact competitors out there namely the Mazda CX-5 or the Hyundai Tuscon. Still, the extra comfort and cargo space more than makes up for it at 2146 Liters with the 60/40 seats folded down. That’s about 20% more cargo space compared to the more well-groomed Mazda CX-5 for comparison.

Lavish Interior

Built for longevity, the CR-V cabin space is well insulated and executed with a flushed 7″ infotainment screen equipped with Android Auto and Apple Carplay, available blindspot monitoring, and USB charge ports located in the front and rear seats and dual-climate control system. Available purchase options include heated steering wheel and front seats as well as an available panoramic sunroof exclusive to the highest Touring model.

The perforated leather bucket seats with unnecessary lateral support reveals a quirk feature since the CR-V doesn’t offer performance handling. Still, the front row seating area is quite comfortable and well padded that interestingly mimics the seats of the Lexus RC350.

Where the CR-V shines is the rear seats with reclinable backrest and plenty of leg space. Available USB charge port and independant rear climate controls are available for added accessibility and comfort.

Powertrain

A 1.5L inline turbocharged 4-cylinder coupled to a CVT makes up the ingredients for a fuel efficient powertrain netting at 190 horsepower and 179 lbs.ft of torque. 2WD is available in the lowest LX trim with the remaining default with Honda’s Real-Time AWD implementation. Power is transferred to the rear wheels when accelerating from stop for maximum traction. When cruising speed is reached, the system disconnects the rear driveshaft to run in a more fuel-efficient front-wheel drive configuration.

Road Practice

While not exactly advertised, an initial drive reveals a high ride-height reserving suspension travel to absorb road bumps quite effectively. This results in a relatively smooth and sheltered ride throughout its city and highway speed range.

But there’s no escape from the lack of power. The 1.5L engine struggles to produce torque and lacks granularity and acceleration unless pressing hard on the pedal. And despite an equipped rear-differential, the CR-V understeers with resistance from the power steering. The steering wheel is also tilted forward, similar to that of a transit bus, to remind or prevent the driver from throwing the car around too recklessly.

Final Thoughts

Still, the lack of thrill is a good compromise for fuel efficiency with an EPA rating of 8.7/7.2/8.0 L/100km city, highway and combined respectively. Our week’s long test drive of mixed city and highway driving achieved around 8.9 L/100Km.

Specifications

Vehicle : 2019 Honda CR-V
Model : CR-V Touring
Vehicle Type : Cross-over SUV
Seating Capacity : 2+3
Engine : 1.5L I4 Turbocharged
Transmission : CVT
Price: $39,090

Pros

Exceptional Fuel Economy
Versatile 5-door compact with extra rear legroom and cargo space
Comfortable and luxurious interior with Touring trim
Excellent ride comfort

Cons

Bigger and better quality car can be had for non-hybrid cars
Numb and boring driving experience
Low quality interior

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