6th generation Honda CR-V launching in December

After launching the Honda WR-V, Honda Malaysia Sdn Bhd (HMSB) said that there would still be one more all-new model to be launched before 2023 came to an end. It wasn’t going to be the new Accord, so that could be discounted so it would be the other model which made its debut in some other markets – the 6^th generation of the CR-V.

The new SUV will be launched in Malaysia next month and typical of Honda Malaysia, bookings are open before then. Customers can book online at prebook.honda.com.my or walk into any showroom of the 101 authorised Honda dealerships nationwide to place their booking. The price of the current model ranges from RM147,000 – RM172,000 and as it is assembled locally at the plant in Melaka, the price of the new generation should not differ greatly.

Commenting on the significance of the CR-V in Malaysia, Hironobu Yoshimura, Managing Director and CEO of HMSB, said: “The CR-V has a 20-year history as the first model to roll out from our Melaka manufacturing plant in 2003. With a legacy that predates this milestone, our flagship SUV has had a profound impact on the automotive industry in Malaysia, winning the hearts of generations of owners. To-date, the CR-V has sold more than 129,000 units, solidifying its position as one of Honda Malaysia’s highest contributors to our sales history. With the imminent launch of the All-New CR-V, we anticipate its continued dominance in the Non-National SUV segment.”

The new CR-V continues with the current design language of the brand, with the RS version (which has the e:HEV powertrain) having a more premium look. The grille has a bold mesh pattern and is flanked by LED headlights, complemented by LED foglights and LED sequential turn signals. LEDS are also used for the rear lights.

For improved cooling, the CR-V RS has an Active Shutter Grille for the first time. Mounted on the lower section of the front bumper, the grille opens and closes depending on the vehicle speed and  engine temperature. Its purpose is to improve airflow for more efficient cooling in the engine bay while at the same time, enhancing aerodynamics when it can be closed.

The RS version, which will be the flagship of Honda’s SUV range, will have a 2-litre e:HEV powertrain, the first time the model has a hybrid electric powertrain (in Malaysia). This would be the same as the one in the current Civic e:HEV RS Sedan which was launched a year ago.

The CR-V’s powertrain is said to be updated with an improved Hybrid Traction Motor for a higher top speed. While the power output of 135 kW (184 ps) is the same as that for the Civic, the maximum torque is about 6% greater at 335 Nm.

The powertrain is mated to an Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e:CVT) with a new framework, said to be a first for Honda Malaysia. RealTime 4WD continues to be available, this all-wheel drive technology having been continuously improved since being used in the first generation of the CR-V which debuted in 1995.

For those who prefer not to have an electrified powertrain and save money, Honda Malaysia offers the second option of a 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC engine. More powerful than a conventional 2.4-litre engine, this engine produces 193 ps/243 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a CVT.

The current generation of the CR-V was the first model introduced by Honda Malaysia in 2017 to have Honda SENSING. The advanced suite of integrated active safety systems help the driver to be aware of potential dangers and can also act autonomously to prevent a collision.

Over the past 6 years, Honda SENSING has been included in almost all the models sold in Malaysia. It has continued to be improved and for the new CR-V, the bar for safety in the SUV segment is raise with an upgraded Honda SENSING system. Besides having a Wide-Angle Radar and Camera and Sonar Sensor for Low Speed Braking Control, there are now 9 safety functions with the addition of Adaptive Driving Beam (exclusive for e:HEV RS). Also improved line tracing and steering assistance while the Lane Keep Assist System allows for more relaxed driving on highways.

The CR-V will also have Honda CONNECT, a telematics system which gives owners more peace of mind as it has safety and security functions which can be accessed remotely using a smartphone. telematics technology. The system can also track the vehicle so it can more easily be located if it is stolen.

As with recent new models. Honda Malaysia will be holding exclusive previews prior to the launch next month. These will be held at selected Honda dealerships around the country and more information can be gained. Click here for the locations of dealerships and the dates of the preview sessions.

ASEAN NCAP 5-star rating for 6th generation Honda CR-V

Looking for pre-owned Honda CR-V? Visit Motor Trader.