Well, here it is, the fifth generation of Honda’s supremely popular crossover is coming in the form of the 2018 Honda CR-V which is now on the same underpinnings that carry the recently redesigned Honda Civic. As we managed to find out, it has increased in size a bit, and it now offers optional third-row seats which are supposed to close the gap between the CR-V and the Pilot.
Exterior
Besides the change in size, the new model also adopted somewhat sportier and more upscale look which, as you can see from the spy shots, has a larger, more aggressive front grille placed beneath a longer hood and it has a lot less minivan-like stance. Its signature vertical taillights are visible through the camo, and those front headlights look like they have been taken from the Acura. The popularity of the CR-V is unquestionable, and so far it doesn’t have a competitor in its segment, but with this new design, enhanced capabilities, new tech and sportier look it will increase its fan base even more which means that its throne will remain uncontested for years to come.
2018 Honda CR-V interior
As you can see from the images the photo proof of the interior is lacking because the drivers made sure the spies can see a thing. The only thing that is known and obvious is that thanks to the size increase it will be a lot more spacious, but it will also be able to offer both five and seven-seat configuration. Honda Australia Director, Stephen Collins made a statement saying “When you step into the new 2018 Honda CR-V you’ll know you’re in a premium, quality cabin but that premiumness will also be evident in the driving experience.” He continued by adding “We also know our customers rank style as an important consideration for purchase and the CR-V has plenty of style as well as sophistication and a strong dynamic visual element.” So there you have it, we just hope that some images that can back these claims up will be out soon for you to see it.
Chassis and powertrain
As we already mentioned, the 5th gen of the CR-V will be laying on top of the Civic’s modular chassis which will be somewhat changed to accommodate the mechanicals needed for the AWD system, which will be optional for the 2018 Honda CR-V. Its wheelbase will also grow, from current 103.1 inches to (probably) match the 2016 Civic sedan’s 106.3-inch wheelbase.
As far as the engine compartment is considered we can only guess that company’s new 174 HP 1.5 L turbo four cylinder (from the Accord) will probably be the CR-V’s standard engine with a possible tune-up to get more emphasis on low-rpm torque so it could cope with the somewhat heavier vehicle. That tune may result in a power increase to match the current model’s 2.4 L four-cylinder which makes 185 HP and 181 lb-ft of torque, or possibly even more (not out of the question). This new engine will be attached to an automatic transmission, a CVT which will be the only option for the 2018 version. As far as the driving configuration is considered it will be offered with the FWD as standard (just like before) and AWD as an option.
2018 Honda CR-V Price
When it comes to competition, it remained unchanged with the same rivals like before – Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, but we highly doubt it that they will be able even to come close. As far as price is considered it shouldn’t deviate much from the current gen that is priced between $24,645 for an FWD LX and stretches up to $34,295 for an AWD Touring model, while the third-row option for the 2018 Honda CR-V might raise the price up a bit more.
2018 CRV Release Date
The release of this vehicle is expected sometime this year, but it will come as a 2018 MY.
