[Taboleo] The Well-Rounded Honda CR-V... Can It Recapture Past Glory?

Honda Leads Imported Car Sales to Surpass 10,000 Units for the First Time
Launch of 6th Generation Complete Redesign Model
Offers Excellent Fuel Efficiency and Quietness
However, Display Remains Disappointing

The CR-V, a compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) from the Japanese brand Honda, is a model that marked a milestone in the history of imported cars in Korea. This vehicle began sales domestically with the 2nd generation model in 2004 and ranked among the top 3 imported SUVs in sales for four consecutive years until 2008. Riding on this success, Honda Korea sold 10,000 units in 2008, the first time in the history of imported brands. However, Honda Korea is currently facing a tough period. Sales from January to August this year amounted to only 709 units. This contrasts with Japanese brands Toyota and Lexus, which have boosted sales despite the No Japan movement (boycott of Japanese products). To regain its past glory, Honda has released the completely redesigned 6th generation CR-V. The test drive showed it to be a vehicle equipped with the fundamentals of a hybrid: good fuel efficiency and quietness.

Honda CR-V Hybrid
Photo by Honda Korea

This model feels cleaner compared to the previous 5th generation. The front grille has become noticeably larger. The lights are slightly smaller in size and extend backward, giving the appearance of 'torn eyes.' The chrome that used to surround the lower front, giving a flashy impression, has also been removed.

Honda CR-V Hybrid
[Photo by Honda Korea]

The body has also grown. The overall length and wheelbase, which indicate interior space, measure 4705 mm and 2700 mm respectively. These are increases of 75 mm and 40 mm compared to the previous generation. Compared to similarly sized Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, the length is longer but the wheelbase is slightly shorter. Compared to the Toyota RAV4, both dimensions are longer. In fact, sitting in the rear seat, it was sufficient for an adult of average height.

Honda CR-V Hybrid
[Photo by Honda Korea]

When driving at a constant speed for about 100 km with a ratio of 30% city driving and 70% highway driving, the actual fuel efficiency was 17.1 km/l.
[Photo by Oh Gyumin moh011@]

Since this vehicle is a hybrid, it does not lack power. The engine’s maximum output is 147 horsepower, supported by a motor producing 184 horsepower. When pressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle started driving without any shortage. There was no ‘jerking’ sensation sometimes felt in hybrid or electric vehicles. The fuel efficiency is 14 km/L based on combined standards. However, when driving with a ratio of 30% city driving and 70% highway driving at a steady speed, the actual fuel efficiency was 17.1 km/L. A Honda Korea official said, “The official fuel efficiency is slightly lower due to the larger size and 80 kg increase in weight compared to the previous generation, but the actual fuel efficiency comes out better.”

Honda CR-V Hybrid
[Photo by Honda Korea]

However, a disappointing point is that the electronic devices such as the display feel outdated. In particular, the 9-inch center display gives a similar impression to the display found in the most basic models of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. The instrument cluster’s speedometer is analog with a moving needle. This vehicle is imported only as an all-wheel-drive Touring Hybrid model in Korea, priced at 55.9 million KRW.