Honda’s hybrid SUV hopes are being kick started in Europe with this: the CR-VThe fresh and electrified SUV is on ahead of an official launch in 2018.
So, this hybrid powertrain…
It’s the first time Honda has shoehorned a hybrid powertrain into an SUV in Europe, with most of its electrified DNA over here stemming from the Insight, CR-Z and the most recent NSX.
The hybrid powertrain is an appealing conventional one; it comprises a 2.0-litre VTEC four-pot petrol linked to an electric motor for drive assistance and a battery pack.
There’s a CVT transmission that sends the thrust to the wheels and three drive modes that choose how best to use the obtainable grunt.
EV Drive uses the batteries single-handedly for silent and whizzy movement, Hybrid Drive set of scales of the battery and engine for efficiency and Engine Drive relies on the 2.0-litre combustion engine to do most of the work with a drive motor providing an enhance of extra torque.
And the design?
This shape and pointier design is by now on sale across the pond in the US, and incorporates bits of the new Civic.
Honda utters that the design ‘retains the familiar silhouette of the world’s best-selling SUV, with an evolutionary design that is sophisticated and sporty.’
Any other CR-V news?
If you don’t want the hybrid, there will also be a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo petrol engine obtainable ,linked to either a six-speed manual or a CVT. Honda validates that there will not be a diesel CR-V in Europe.The production version of the new CR-V will hit Honda’s showrooms in 2018.
