Review: 2012 Honda CR-V

Distinctly more angular than its predecessor, the Honda CR-V 2012 comes with an all-new interior. The model's next generation is a very stylish car that is also more fuel-efficient and tougher that makes the 2012 Honda CR-V crossover stay true to the current design language of the SUV to stay competitive in the segment. The lighter CR-V packs in more power and comes with a lower cargo floor that showcases the family-friendliness of the vehicle. The upcoming 2012 Honda CR-V comes packed with advanced features and killer looks that will set a new standard for the crossover segment in its class.

2012 Honda CR-V

What does it offer?

The unbeatable performance of the newest model from Honda Motors comes equipped with added safety features like anti-lock disc brakes, curtain airbags for both the driver and front passenger, a side airbag for the front passenger, and a Stability Control System that may just make the 2012 Honda CR-V a statement-making, stylish and unique SUV. The vehicle will be offered in three versions- the LX, the EX, and the EX-L- with the Europe- and global-specification models being made available in different engines.

The Beauty:

The 2012 Honda CR-V comes with a bigger rear side as well as updated shape and profile. Though it is at the moment unclear whether the SUV would be a 5- or a 7-seater, the side profile of the 2012 Honda CR-V looks distinctly fuller with the rear boot possibly fitting in the extra seating inside.

The Beast:

Carried over from the 2011 model, the drivetrain in the 2012 Honda CR-V will come fitted with a 4-cylinder 2.4-L iVTEC engine that outputs 180 hp at 6,800 revs per minute and displaces 161 pounds per feet of torque at 4,400 revs per minute. The 5-speed transmission on the current model is expected to be replaced by a new 6-speed automatic unit. Most of the available versions will come in a front-wheel-drive set-up with the all-wheel-drive option available on other variants of the model. The Europe -bound CR-Vs could possibly be fitted with a 165 hp 2.2-liter iDTEC diesel powerhouse.

The Thrill:

The 2012 Honda CR-V goes from 0-60 miles mph in 9.5 seconds though the top speed numbers are not available at the moment. The EPA-estimated economy for the 2012 Honda CR-V is 27 mpg on the highway and 20 mpg in the city.

Interiors:

High-class upholstery, cozy seating, power windows, a removable picnic table, and adjustable steering column make the 2012 CR-V a very comfortable car on the inside. With a cargo capacity of 35.7 cubic feet, the classy interior comes in three trims with the LX version being offered with an auxiliary input-equipped CD/MP3 player, a tilt steering wheel, and keyless entry. The EX trim offers a 6 CDs CD player that is attached to a 6-speaker music system with function buttons on the steering wheel, tinted rear window glass, and a sunroof. The EX-L version of the CR-V comes fitted a satellite radio, a seven speaker and a sub woofer-fitted music system, heated and leather-upholstered front seats and a leather-clad steering wheel.

Exteriors:

Indeed a very elegant looking car, the exteriors of the CR-V come with bold lines on both sides that lend the model very aggressive look than its predecessor. Honda is looking to appeal to a higher end market with the new model and the CR-V comes with better accommodation via another row of seats inside. The 2012 CR-V also comes with the signature “H” stamping of the company branded on the three bar grille. Wrapped around the front end is a black bumper which contrasts with the bright orange and white headlamps, side view mirror and door handles. The 17 inch tires also give the new model a distinct sportiness.

Should I buy one?

Innumerable safety options in the new design are expected to be a big hit across global markets.

Price and availability:

Honda Motors are yet to confirm the pricing and release date for the 2012 Honda CR-V though industry watchers expect the full launch of the production model of the affordable SUV to come around Summer 2012.

Industry buzz:

Top Speed says,

We’ll find out more about the 2012 Honda CR-V soon enough, but for now we’ll settle for building up even higher expectations for the new generation of one of the top-selling crossovers in the world.

The all new 2012 Honda gives you a smooth driving experience. It has a beautiful looking body with extremely cool looking interior.

The 2012 CR-V Concept introduces the exterior styling for the more sophisticated and dynamic design of the upcoming production model.

Picture Gallery

2012 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V 2012 is a very stylish car and anybody could easily get a crush on it