2015 Honda CR-V: A little polish is all it needs to keep up with the times
The small-but-tall-wagon class is full of fuel-sipping models that brag up their impressive passenger/cargo accommodations and all weather driving capabilities.
Most in this class were developed to compete with the hugely popular Honda-Civic-based CR-V, which helped nurture and develop this niche nearly two decades ago.
That the CR-V has retained its popularity over the years is in no small way attributable to the automaker's continuing refinement and updating efforts. The last major change was issued for the 2012 model year and now Honda has delivered a significantly refreshed model for 2015.
Most obvious is a new and cleaner grille and new bumper headlight pods and wheels that do wonders for the CR-V's looks. Revised taillights, outside mirrors and some added trim make the rear end (one of the better-looking bustles in the business) more fashionable.
There's a new configurable floor console bin, a new rear console and an available seven-inch touch-screen display. Greater use of soft-touch materials for the door panels is another bonus while additional sound insulation helps cut road noise.
Returning unchanged is a split-folding back seat that lowers by flipping a really handy pair of levers located just inside the liftgate. Access through the large portal makes it easy to load large/bulky items onto the flat load floor, which is more than five feet long.
Not a great deal of adjustments were made to the CR-V's suspension, other than recalibrated shock absorbers for what Honda claims is a "refined driving feel." There's also a quicker steering ratio.
Honda saved its most extensive changes for the engine compartment. The previous 185-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine has been replaced by a newer 2.4 that originates in the Honda Accord. It's rated at the same 185 horsepower, but makes 181 pound-feet of torque, which is up by 11 percent. The increase in twisting force is derived from a new direct injection system that sprays fuel directly into the cylinders instead of through the intake ports of the cylinder head. This means the fuel load can not only be tailored for engine speed, but for the use. Under light cruising conditions, for example, the mixture is very lean, which means higher efficiency and lower emissions. Greater combustion efficiency also means more torque.
The 2.4 is mated to a continuously variable transmission (also from the four-cylinder Accord) that replaces the previous five-speed automatic.
As a result, fuel economy has jumped to 27 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway (previously 23/31) for front-wheel-drive models, and to 26/33 for AWD versions (up from 22/30).
The base LX trim, which starts at $23,950 with destination charges, comes with an abundance of standard equipment, including a center console armrest, slide-out sun visors and rear console vents.
The EX adds a power moonroof, fog lights, push-button start and a 10-way power driver's seat, while popping for the EX-L adds leather-covered seats and steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, heated outside mirrors, up-level audio system and access to the optional navigation system.
For 2015, there's a new top-line CR-V Touring model that includes a lengthy list of previously unavailable collision-avoidance systems. In the mix is Adaptive Cruise Control, which maintains a safe distance to the vehicle in front. There's also Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning, plus Lane Keeping Assist, which steers the CR-V back into the middle of its lane if it begins to veer. (These systems can be manually switched off.) Navigation and a power tailgate are also part of the Touring.
Ultimately, though, it's the CR-V's impressive passenger amenities and generous load-carrying capacity that will continue to keep it top-of-mind for shoppers. The enhanced performance, protective features and reduced fuel consumption are merely icing on the cake.
What you should know: 2015 Honda CR-V
Type: Four-door, front- /all-wheel-drive compact sport utility vehicle
Engine (hp): 2.4-liter DOHC I4 (185)
Transmission: Continuously variable (CVT)
Market position: Compact small and tall wagons are enticing alternatives to both compact and mid-size sedans, owing to their obvious practicality, all-season capability and easy-on-fuel nature.
Points: Redesign is relative minor, but is still an improvement; New four-cylinder engine is punchier in the torque department and thriftier at the gas pump; Roomy, comfortable cabin is a big selling feature; AWD is an affordable option and worth its weight in northern climates; Honda has executed an impressive updating of its class-leading model.
Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control.
MPG (city/hwy) 27/34 (FWD); Base price (incl. destination) $23,950
By comparison
Ford Escape
Base price: $23,850
Good-looking small wagon provides powertrain and handy option choices.
Toyota RAV4
Base price: $24,600
Easy on gas plus excellent road manners makes this a fun-to-drive sedan.
Mazda CX-5
Base price: $22,400
Sporty handling and two power choices earn this small ute much respect.
