Traditionally, Honda CR-V is one of the most popular SUVs, ever. But, nowadays, first details about new 2016 Honda CR-V are available. Fourth-generation CR-V is one of the top sellers in its niche, and Honda needs to treat it right in order for it to remain at this spot, or even bolster it. That’s why this year’s model offers some changes, and after a facelift, 2016 Honda CR-V should continue basically unchanged.
The Engine Range
One of the biggest changes was made under CR-V’s hood. Unlike previous models, 2016 Honda CR-V gets 2.4L direct-injected 4-cylinder engine from Accord. Center piece is tied exclusively to the new CVT transmission, and you can get it either with front-wheel drive or optional real time all-wheel drive system. This isn’t exactly off-roader or sporty crossover, but a fine compact vehicle which does the job and rides smooth and easy.
According to the predictions, new CR-V brings better features than previous model. Max speed is around 118 mph. But, for 8 seconds, this SUV reaches 62 mph.
Changes & Styling – Interior and Exterior
Design changes are more than evident. Even though the compact keeps its overall shape and size, there’s plenty of differences between it and its predecessor. Frontal fascia is completely revised, and new CR-V gets new bumper, headlights and grille which are a mirror to the future of most affordable Honda’s. Rear end keeps upward spiraling tail-lights which are now more pronounced than ever thanks to a redesigned chrome garnish on the tailgate.
CR-V’s line has been expanded, and apart from previously available LX, EX and EX-L trim levels, 2016 year model offers new top grade, Touring. This means that features have been slightly reordered as well, but more on that later. Leather seats are offered in top couple of grades, while heated front seats start from EX models. Completely revised dashboard looks much better than before, it has to be said. Top models even get a thin woodgrain line which stretches across the dash, but designers didn’t bother to change the dual-screen layout.
Screens might be differently positioned, but the principle remains the same. Lower, 7-inch touch screen does most of infotainment duties which include the job of navigation and audio control among others. Upper screen is tucked away deeper in the dash, and serves as driver information display. Needless to say, all standard connectivity features are available from the get-go, while HD radio and satellite radio are reserved for top grades.
Safety options
Safety systems are more than adequate for a compact crossover. 2016 Honda CR-V offers standard rearview camera and right-hand blind spot monitor. List of optional features is even longer and consists of a lane keeping assist, lane-departure warning, forward-collision warning, collision-mitigation braking system and adaptive cruise control.
2016 Honda CR-V Price & MPG
Fuel economy ratings have risen quite a bit from the last year, and front-wheel drive models are now rated at 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Optional all-wheel drive system lowers all figures by a point. LX models are still available from $23,500, while most expensive option now costs $31,500.
2016 Honda CR-V is not one of the best-selling crossovers for no reason. After latest changes, however, it might just become the best-seller since it was upgraded in almost every department. Meanwhile, it will be interesting to see how its competitors will react on these news, but, whatever happens, compact crossover segment should be more exciting than ever.
