Honda CR-V - Not for boyracers, but start your SUV shopping here

Since the advent of 'soft-roader' SUVs, none have encapsulated this genre more than the Honda CR-V. From its very first generation, the CR-V was a hit with the carbuying public simply because it set out to do so many things, so very exceedingly well. In its fifth generation now, what is it about this SUV that makes it so enduringly popular?

VTEC turbocharged engine

Let's face it, shoppers in this segment are looking for something dependable, steadfast and headache free. The CR-V is just that, and more. Equipped with a 1.5L VTEC turbocharged engine, 193 PS and 243 Nm is served up in a smooth fashion through a seamless CVT transmission. With this combo, the CR-V does not want for performance nor reliability.

More pertinently, the Honda CR-V comes with almost every conceivable feature you'd possibly want in a modern SUV. Smartphone connectivity? Check. Honda SENSING ADAS suite? Check. Electronic climate control? Check. LED headlamps? Check. ISOFIX mounts? Check. 6 airbags and VSA? Most definitely.

Also read: Honda SENSING is different from other ADAS because of this feature

As you can see, the Honda CR-V is really hard to beat when you're looking for an SUV to tick all the right boxes for your family. Convenience, safety and performance are all included in the package. What else could you possibly ask for, more space?

Ace of Space

If you've never been in a CR-V, you'd never thought an SUV can have so much space inside. Cavernous is probably the right adjective to describe the CR-V's interior packaging. Everywhere you look, there are storage solutions. At the door bins, the center console and have you seen the bottomless pit beneath the center armrest? A poodle can fit in there (but please don't do that).

Seating wise, you won't find may SUVs that is as roomy as the CR-V. Many of its peers claim to seat 5, but in reality it's really a squeeze. Not with the CR-V, it will effortlessly take 5 on board, with room to spare. Your occupants will never complain about having to squeeze around in the CR-V, ever.

Going to the rear quarters, Honda again shows its packaging ingenuity with a wide and low boot lid. This helps tremendously when loading big items, ensuring you don't have to exert too much effort when lifting items to place in the boot. If you can't visually appreciate how well thought-out this feature is, here's a comparison of the Proton X70's tailgate.

Cherry on top? Hands-free power tailgate. Opening your rear trunk has never been easier, even when your hands are full.

Also read: Pros and Cons: Honda CR-V - Spacious and practical, but is it enough?

Comfortable Runabout Vehicle

What good is a family SUV if it cannot haul everyone in comfort, right? The Honda CR-V proves to be marvellous in this aspect. Having 235/60 R18 tyres definitely helps, but Honda has tuned the suspension to ensure the CR-V's ride is a smooth one. One additional feature in the facelifted CR-V models is Active Noise Cancellation, which helps filter out unwanted noise and keeps the cabin serene. 

So, come time to do long-distance drives (when state borders are finally open), the CR-V will be that one car you'll be glad to have as your companion. Sure, the handling won't impress boyracers but that's not the CR-V's audience, is it? It cossets, soothes and calms you. That's what buyers in this segment look for.

Conclusion

If you're in the market for an SUV that can do it all, you could do a lot worse than the Honda CR-V. What you're getting for your money is acres of space, supreme comfort, and cutting-edge technology for your family. This being a Honda, you can be sure that it will be a fuss-free, painless ownership experience. And that, is why the Honda CR-V was and still is a crowd favourite.