The Honda CR-V is now in its fifth-generation and Honda still sells hundreds of thousands of them every year to drivers who want something practical and reliable, something to tow their trailer and deliver their children to and from school, all without giving them any reason to visit their local mechanic. The 2020 Honda CR-V promises to be even more favourable for these drivers as it now offers a range of new equipment and colours.
RUBUST EXTERIOR
The 2020 Honda CR-V takes on a more aggressive look thanks to bigger foglight openings, a larger chrome grille and tinted taillights. EX, EX-L and Touring trims get rounded LED foglights, while CR-V Hybrid models in the same trims get different bar-type foglights with five LEDs.
Three new exterior colours are now available in the 2020 range which includes Sonic Gray Pearl and Radiant Red Metallic on regular and hybrid models and new Aegean Blue Metallic which is reserved for non-hybrid models.
VERSATILE INTERIOR
Stepping inside the cabin of the 2020 CR-V is a welcoming feeling with the bright and open space. The elegant dash features a selection of top notch materials layered strategically to break up the look. The gear shifter sits just below the display and is higher than typical vehicles but allows for more storage in the center console. The control center of the dash is clean and minimal, with most features being controlled by the touch screen display or the steering wheel mounted controls.
The plush seating is comfortable yet supportive for all passengers, while allowing everyone to sit up high for better visibility. Plenty of storage spaces adorn the 2020 CR-V, making for practical storage of everyday items.
In back with all the seats up the 2020 CR-V can accommodate nearly 40 cubic feet of luggage and with the seats down, it grows to more than 75 cubic feet with a low load floor and wide hatch making it extremely practical.
ENGINE AND DRIVE
Under the hood of the 2020 Honda CR-V is a compact 1.5L, 16-valve, Direct Injection, DOHC, turbocharged four cylinder engine. However, you would probably be surprised to hear that Honda has been able to squeeze out a whopping 190hp. The engine pairs with a front-drive as the base offering and an optional all wheel drive for all other models. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is equipped on all models and provides a smooth acceleration and a great fuel economy.
The overall driving experience of the 2020 CR-V is a confident yet relaxed ride. Smooth accelerations, quiet coasting, precise handling and power at hand when needed, even with the small engine, all contribute to a pleasant and reliable ride.
One benefit of the smaller engine is that achieves some remarkable fuel economies of 8.7 L/100km in the city and 7.4 L/100km on the highway.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Priced starting at $30,630, the 2020 Honda CR-V is a great all around choice for a mid-sized SUV that is sure to deliver comfort, versatility, fuel efficiency and reliability. With excellent warranty offerings and a superb history of reliability, the 2020 CR-V isn’t going to set the world alight, but for general family or commuter uses, it offers a good all-round safe choice for buyers.