New SUV Promises Spontaneity and Style

Honda New Zealand officially launches its new SUV this Saturday, offering a perfect motoring solution for the active Kiwi lifestyle.

The all-new 2012 CRV is the latest evolution of Honda's successful CRV formula, featuring enhanced classical styling, increased power, greater fuel economy and drivability, and added features and functionality. Not only is it an incredibly versatile SUV, but it ranks high in the safety stakes with a 5 star American NHTSA rating.

For the first time, the CRV is available in both 4WD and 2WD, successfully accommodating both skiers and bach dwellers, or around towners who love the benefits of a highly versatile SUV, but don’t need to travel off the beaten track. These features, combined with its huge cargo and utility options, make the CRV the ultimate choice for everyday activities or spontaneous adventures.

The CRV’s good looks are enhanced with a strong front grille, smooth aerodynamic lines, distinctive rear window design and a longer roofline.

Its predecessors are renowned for their leading use of space, but the new CRV comes with improved tardis-like proportions. Honda has increased the interior space with added front seat shoulder room and increased boot space, while the exterior width remains the same but the length is reduced by 30mm to make parking a little easier. One touch magic seats allow for an impressive 1,669 litres maximum cargo space when the seats are flat or 589 litres to the window line with all the seats up.

Graeme Meyer, Head of Marketing for Honda New Zealand, says, “The best SUV’s allow you to take your lifestyle on the road, without compromise or inconvenience. Whether it’s a spontaneous surfing session at the beach or a family weekend away skiing, the new CRV offers complete versatility enabling Kiwis to realise their everyday dreams.”

The CRV’s impressive handling is a rarity amongst SUV offerings, achievable thanks to a low centre of gravity and under floor aerodynamics, which help provide a great ride at any speed.

Standard on CRV is the ECON operating mode, which, by choice increases the potential for drivers to improve the vehicle’s fuel efficiency when the system is activated. The CRV comes with a 5-speed automatic transmission, and given the increase in power, now has slightly higher overall gearing to aid fuel economy. The Sport also includes racing-inspired steering wheel mounted shift paddles.

A suite of multimedia features completes the CRV package. Seamless audio and Bluetooth phone streaming mean you can relax and enjoy long journeys without distractions, while control of audio and telephone is through Honda's innovative iMID system, with integrated steering wheel commander, removing the need to touch your phone for music or calls.

Two models are available. The new CRV S comes with an economical 2.0 litre i-VTEC 2WD engine, delivering power of 114kw and 190Nm torque, with fuel economy of just 7.7 l/100 kms. The CRV Sport adds power, comfort and luxury with a 2.4 litre i-VTEC 4WD engine, offering a 12% improvement in power, a total of 140kw and 222Nm Torque. A 13% improvement in fuel economy results in the Sport achieving just 8.7 litres per 100 kms (ADR). Prices start from $39,900 for the CRV S.