Honda is not mincing words: they are ready to take back the compact crossover crown with the launch of the all-new 2017 CR-V. The fifth-generation model boasts of a bolder style, a more premium interior, and the model’s first-ever turbocharged engine. Consider us intrigued.

The 2017 CR-V heads to a fresh new direction with a more aggressive design highlighted by sharp front elements, aggressively styled headlights, and wing-shaped LED daytime running lights. Full LED headlights are available.  The fenders have been pushed out and filling them up are 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels. The longer hood, longer wheelbase, and shorter overhangs gives it a more sophisticated presence while at the back, dual exhausts give a hint of athleticism.

In the US, the 2017 CR-V will be powered by two engines. The lower variants will be motivated by a direct-injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a CVT transmission. Meanwhile, the big news is the availability of a turbocharged engine. The 1.5-liter turbocharged mill in the higher trim variants push out a healthy 190 horsepower while delivering a refined performance. An Active Grille Shutter system is expected to push fuel economy figures even higher.


Underneath, the all-new body and chassis provide a more agile and confident handling, greater refinement, additional ground clearance, and versatility. The front MacPherson Struts and rear multi-link suspension use specially tuned low-friction dampers with both FWD and AWD models getting tubular front and solid rear stabilizer bars for quicker turn-in and flatter cornering. The Dual-pinion, variable ratio electric power steering contributes to a more direct and satisfying steering feel.

Inside, the 2017 CR-V has even more space while also raising the bar for refinement, utility, and premium features. It boasts of the best rear legroom in its class while soft-touch materials including the instrument panel connote an upgraded feel. For the driver, a color TFT Driver Information Interface (DII) center meter adds to a more handsome design aesthetic.

The CR-V also boasts of the latest in-vehicle connectivity and audio performance. It has a 7-inch Display Audio interface with an Android operating system that now has a physical volume knob. The system is also compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and can be had with a Garmin-based GPS system.



Some of the key comfort and convenience features include a remote engine start, dual zone climate control, heated side mirrors, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB), rear USB charging ports, 8-way power adjustment driver’s seat, 4-way power adjustment front passenger seat, and a hands-free powered tailgate.

The 2017 CR-V can be had with a full suite of Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technologies. In the CR-V, Honda Sensing includes Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and pedestrian sensing capability, Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow and Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS). Additional new driver-assistive technologies include the available Blind Spot Information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) and Auto High Beam (HSS) headlights. And utilizing Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, the 2017 CR-V targets the highest available collision safety ratings.

The 2017 Honda CR-V goes on sale in the US by winter this year with the rest of the world to follow. It’s likely that the ASEAN market 2017 CR-V will launch at either at the Thailand Motor Expo later this year or perhaps at the Bangkok International Motor Show early next year.