The 2018 Honda CR-V transfers over its design from the 2017 Honda CR-V, where it was given a complete overhaul with some pretty decisive changes. The fifth gen CRV is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine with ample torque and a great fuel economy. The ground clearance is increased by 1.5-inch compared to its pre-2017 version and wheelbase is also longer and the tracks are a bit wider.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
Honda’s new style language has finally turned the 2018 CR-V into a handsome, trendy-looking SUV. Its aggressive front, muscular haunches, and evolved rear styling evoke images of some of the past generations, while placing the styling of the current 2018 CR-V towards the top amongst its competition. Doing away with the original styling of a hatch-mounted spare tire, the 2018 CR-V now has an aggressive stance and distinct styling. Practical aerodynamic details and communicatory LED lighting highlight its exterior.
All trim levels of the 2018 Honda CR-V are spiced up with a rear spoiler and either 17- or 18-inch wheels. There are many subtle exterior features that help improve the overall design, while also adding function, such as the shutter grille to boost fuel efficiency and power side mirrors. The EX and higher models add fog lamps and a power sunroof, to name a few of the many options. The top of the line touring has unique 18-inch wheels, chrome detailing along with twin exhaust silencers and rain-sensing windscreen wipers. It comes in 10 exterior colours which can be paired with three interior colours.
INTERIOR VERSATILITY
The 2018 Honda CR-V contains a trendy and convenient interior, carried over from the 2017 CR-V. The spacious interior is versatile and functional yet also simple and luxurious. A tasteful balance of faux-wood accents, chromed plastic, and brushed-satin finishes come together to complete the up-market design within the touring model. The well equipped interior rivals most of the competition.
The large touchscreen display helps keep the dash clear from button clutter, while also allowing more knee room. The leather seats have a premium look and feel, while also being functional and supportive for long and short hauls.
With plenty of storage areas to keep loose items hidden away and compartmentalized, the interior of the 2018 Honda CR-V is one of the most convenient and versatile. Split folding rear seats add function to the cargo area, while rear passengers are blessed with plenty of leg and head room.
ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The base model 2018 CR-V is equipped with a 2.4L inline-four that churns out 184hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Its performance is praiseworthy as well as expected, since it shares the same engine with the 2018 Honda Accord. The upper models come equipped with the 1.5L inline-four outputting 190hp and 179 lb-ft of torque, which is shared with the 2018 Honda Civic. In the CR-V’s case, this engine is tuned to create more power to haul around the larger vehicle.
The 2018 CR-V’s engines are paired with a CVT transmission, which allows for a smooth and seamless acceleration from rest all the way up to highway speeds. While the gear ratios are not as defined as automatics, the CVT still does a great job of keeping power readily available and for the 2018 CR-V this is a welcome tradeoff to result in a smooth drive and better fuel economy. Our 150km combined city and highway test drive yielded 9.8 L/100km, which is very impressive for an SUV. Similar to previous versions of the CR-V, front wheel drive is standard on base models, while the real time all wheel drive is equipped on the upper models.
Overall, the 2018 Honda CR-V delivers a composed ride with crisp steering, smooth accelerations and precise handling. There is confidence through turns as well as efficient braking capabilities, which help add reassurance to those concerned with safety.
FINAL THOUGHTS
The 2018 Honda CR-V is a great all around choice for a smooth ride, a quality build and a versatile and well thought out interior. The top notch interior will delight passengers, while the CVT will direct the power into a composed drive. With a starting price of $27,290, drivers will surely get a lot of value for this mid-sized SUV.
