Honda CR-V range refreshed for 2015

Honda has revised its hot-selling CR-V for 2015. The mid-size SUV, dubbed CR-V Series II, received styling tweaks, new features and added variants across both the two-wheel and four-wheel drive petrol models.

Competing in one of the fastest growing and most saturated car segments, the latest generation Honda CR-V has sold over 21,000 units since its launch in 2012. For its mid-life update, Honda has freshen up the CR-V’s exterior with LED daytime running lights, restyled grille, sportier looking front and rear bumpers, and new design alloy wheels. A new colour called Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic has also been added to the colour palette.

Inside, the panels are adorned with a piano-black finish and chrome surrounds with stitching reminiscent of “luxury craftsmanship”. The CR-V’s sizable cargo area is still capable of carrying 1,648 litres and features the easy one-touch folding system.

The two-wheel drive range is now available in three variants: VTi, VTi-S and VTi-L. Both the two and four-wheel drive VTi receive Honda’s Display Audio system with Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming along with one HDMI and two USB ports. The reversing camera has also been upgraded to feature three modes: top-down, wide and normal.

The VTi-S variants in both drivetrains receive Smart Entry with push-button start, auto wipers, auto headlights, front and rear sensors, dual-zone climate control and Honda’s LaneWatch system that features an integrated camera offering an 80 degree view of the left lane of traffic to aid the driver in monitoring a blind spot.

Both VTi-L drivetrains feature Display Audio Plus with inbuilt satellite navigation and leather-appointed trim.

The four-wheel drive VTi-L’s factory-fitted Advanced Driver Assist System (ADAS) which includes Collision Mitigating Braking System (CMBS), Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS) has also been retained.

The updated CR-V range carries over the current engine line-up which consists of a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit delivering 114kW and 190Nm, 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol with 140kW and 222Nm, and 2.2-litre diesel four producing 110kW and 350Nm.

Prices for the 2015 CR-V remain unchanged with the range-opening VTi 2WD starting at $27,490 plus on roads. The range tops out with the $46,365 CR-V 4WD ADAS.

Read ForceGT’s Honda CR-V petrol and CR-V diesel review