The 2016 Honda CR-V is a simple compact SUV, executed right, with versatility ideal for everyday family needs. The 2016 CR-V performs well, drives efficiently and offers a spacious and functional interior for its passengers. Thankfully, Honda has addressed two major flaws seen in the 2015 Honda CR-V and has fixed the issue for the 2016 model. No more vibrational thrum at idle and finally the volume control on the dash has been improved!
Engine and Drive
All models of the 2016 Honda CR-V are equipped with a 2.4L four cylinder engine and paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT increases fuel efficiency, adapts better to different driving conditions, and also creates a smooth and fluid driving experience. The engine generates 185 horsepower and 181-lb of torque, and comes complete with Earth Dreams Technology which ensures the 2016 CR-V is as economical as it possibly can be without sacrificing on performance. Improving fuel consumption even further are the “ECON” mode button and an Eco-Assist system which guides you into driving in the most environmentally friendly way possible.
Our combined city and highway test drive yielded 9.8 L/100km with mostly city driving which is slightly higher than the posted rates of 9.5 L/100km in the city and 7.5 L/100km on the highway (for the AWD version).
The 2016 Honda CR-V is a smooth and silent ride with minimal cabin noise. Body sway is minimal and all in all, driving the 2016 CR-V feels more like a car than an SUV. It handles nicely thanks to its low center of gravity, and an Intelligent Control System which automatically transfers torque to the rear wheels to increase traction in challenging conditions. It accelerates competently, and is on the whole a safe, reassuring and reliable drive.
Interior and Exterior
The interior of the 2016 Honda CR-V has been updated and improved with sophisticated soft-touch materials making up the dash and majority of the cabin and any hard plastics in the vehicle being of excellent quality. All these materials are stylish and durable – perfect for any wear and tear or drink and food spills, which are inevitable in family life. The leather-trimmed seats are luxurious and comfortable, with the front seats in all models coming heated as standard. The driver’s seat is also adjustable to ten different settings including lumbar support to create maximum comfort for longer drives.
Inside the 2016 CR-V, there are storage spaces everywhere you look, from the dash and center console all the way back to the cargo area. A nice addition is the adjustable center console armrest to accommodate many different sized drivers. Thankfully the 2016 Honda CR-V addresses the previously annoying touch screen volume control by replacing the touch screen’s left side controls with push button controls.
Likewise, the exterior of the 2016 Honda CR-V is also appealing. An upright, nicely shaped body flows from the elegant and modern front end to a rugged and muscular rear end, with a few sleek accent lines along the side for good measure. The 2016 CR-V has the appearance of a tough, confident and tasteful vehicle, and its looks are certainly not deceiving.
Final Thoughts
The 2016 Honda CR-V offers great value and it certainly delivers on quality, versatility and performance. Ideal for small families, this compact crossover SUV starts at $26,290 and offers a smooth driving experience more like a car. Although the exterior may not turn many heads, the quality interior and fuel efficient performance more than make up for it.
