2023 Honda CR-V debuts in Europe as an electrified SUV; ICE trims discontinue

KUALA LUMPUR: Within a year of introducing it in the United States, Honda has unveiled the all-new sixth-generation CR-V in Europe. The EU-spec SUV is quite different from the one available in the States not only in terms of looks but also in mechanical setup. It is exclusively offered in hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains with no pure ICE option to choose from.

Both the e:HEV hybrid and e:PHEV plug-in hybrid mills comprise a revised iteration of the 2.0-litre direct injection Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine that promises better efficiency and performance.

While no output figures are yet available for the electrified engines to be offered in the Old Continent, we can refer to the Thai-spec CR-V e:HEV that comes powered by a 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle engine kicking out 207 PS and 371 Nm with the help of two electric motors.

However, the automaker has confirmed the CR-V e:PHEV variant offers a fully electric driving range of 82 km with the larger-capacity lithium-ion battery pack in comparison to the CR-V e:HEV trim. The battery takes 2.5 hours for a full charge.

Dimensionally, the new CR-V measures 4,694 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,691 mm in height, and carries a wheelbase of 2,700 mm. 

Coming to the design, the EU-spec SUV features a larger front grille, sleek headlamps, a slightly different bumper, and new internal graphics for the LED tail lights. The interior looks quite familiar with improved quality materials providing it with a more premium feel. Also, the cabin now has better visibility with a flatter hood and lower front corner points. According to Honda, it enhances the “feeling of openness and delivers a sense of safety and reassurance to all occupants.”

Other key cabin inclusions are likely to be -

• 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit
• 7-inch digital instrument cluster
• Dual-zone climate control
• 12-speaker Bose audio system
• Honda Sensing 360 suite (likely to include improved side-impact protection and collision prevention, enhanced adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and traffic sign recognition) 

The new Honda CR-V is slated to hit European showrooms later this year, with pricing expected to be revealed closer to that date. 

Also read: Say hello to Honda’s new electric SUV, the e:Ny1