There comes a pivotal moment for every driver when the appeal of an SUV simply cannot be ignored.
Honda Malaysia introduces the all-new CRV, a vehicle that promises an experience reminiscent of driving a high-end European car, igniting significant enthusiasm.
Our recent expedition to Penang allowed us the pleasure of navigating both the V variant and the e:HEV RS variant of the CRV.
The experience was nothing short of remarkable, with the CRV showcasing enhancements in size, sportiness, elegance, and safety.
Priced at RM181,900, the V variant is equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine, offering 193PS and 243Nm of torque.
Meanwhile, the e:HEV RS variant, costing RM195,900, boasts a 2.0-litre inline-four petrol engine with direct injection, delivering 148PS and 190Nm of torque.
Its appearance is equally impressive, particularly in the new Canyon River Blue Metallic shade, while the hybrid variant features an innovative active grille shutter.
Interior-wise, the CRV offers abundant space.
The interior of the CRV provides ample space, maintaining its practicality and openness even with a departure from the previous cab-forward design.
Although not overly wide at 1,866mm, the CRV excels in vertical space, ensuring generous headroom and legroom for all passengers.
While the CRV's interior quality is exceptionally high, it stops short of the 'premium' category.
Central to the dashboard is a nine-inch infotainment screen that supports Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity and entertainment on the road.
The e:HEV RS model exclusively features a 12-speaker Bose sound system, a first for Honda in Malaysia.
Drivers enjoy an eight-way powered seat with memory function, a head-up display, and a wireless charger, along with two USB ports for both front and rear passengers.
The rear seats offer comfort with their sliding and reclining capabilities, adjustable across eight different angles.
Safety is paramount in today's vehicle market, and the CRV e:HEV RS doesn't disappoint, offering an extensive safety suite including eight airbags, a 360-degree camera, Honda LaneWatch, and Honda Connect, among other features.
The CRV also benefits from Honda Sensing technologies and enhanced stability systems to ensure a secure driving environment.
Driving the e:HEV RS variant is a uniquely sporty experience, further enriched by three selectable driving modes: Econ, Normal, and Sport.
These modes adjust the throttle feel and response, with Sport mode providing a more immediate reaction to inputs.
The e:HEV RS model operates with an e-CVT, a simplified system that foregoes traditional gear ratios for ease of use.
A notable feature is the Active Sound Control (ASC), which enhances the driving ambiance with amplified engine and gear-shifting sounds through the audio system.
Embarking on extensive road trips, we had the opportunity to navigate the V variant of the Honda from Kuala Lumpur to Penang, and on our return journey, we switched to the hybrid variant.
One of the first distinctions we observed was the significant impact of the sound dampening features.
While driving the V variant, the road noise was noticeable yet bearable, but in the hybrid variant, it was markedly reduced.
For families, the CRV is equipped with rear ISOFIX anchors and offers a spacious 589-litre boot, making it an ideal choice for those with children.
Having already sold over 6,000 units in just three months, the CRV has proven itself as the ultimate SUV choice, offering unparalleled comfort, space, and driving enjoyment at its price point.
Overall, Honda Malaysia's latest CRV is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.