The next-gen 2024 Honda CR-V is launching in Australia, bringing in new levels of technology, fresh styling, and added safety.
Honda confirms seven main variants for the local lineup, spanning from the VTi X, VTi L, VTi X7, VTi L7, VTi L AWD, VTi LX AWD, to the top Hybrid e:HEV RS. As you may have guessed, the top model uses a hybrid powertrain.
All others continue with a largely-unchanged 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder. Honda has revised this unit though, introducing VTEC variable valve timing for the exhaust side, a new turbocharger and optimised channelling, and a more rigid crankshaft to reduce noise and vibrations.
Power continues to peak at 140kW and with a maximum torque output of 240Nm. However, peak power is achieved at 6000rpm (up from 5600rpm on outgoing model), and max torque is spread wider, from 1700-5000rpm (from 2000-5000rpm).
Some changes are also made to the CVT auto transmission to help reduce belt noise and vibration, and cooling improvements are applied so it’s more reliable for towing.
As for the new hybrid, it consists of a 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder paired with two electric motors. The e-motors are mounted side-by-side instead of in line with the crankshaft. Combined, the system produces 152kW, making it the most powerful CR-V.
Honda says the new-look cabin is larger and more refined than before, as well as quieter and smarter. All variants feature a 7.2-inch TFT or 10.2-inch TFT (VTi LX and above) instrument cluster display, and a new 9.0-inch touch-screen system packed with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
A premium Bose sound system with 12 speakers is added for the top variants, and all feature a wireless phone charging pad. Impressively, all grades also come with a powered tailgate as standard. Speaking about the new model’s arrival, Honda Australia director Carolyn McMahon said:
“The CR-V has always been a favourite in the Australian market. The all-new CR-V gives our customers even more to love, with plenty of options to choose from including hybrid and petrol variants, AWD or 2WD and 5 or 7 seats. And all come with new safety and tech features to enhance our busy and active lives.”
Safety has been enhanced over the outgoing model with the latest Honda Sensing suite, including the addition of a monocular camera and radar, helping to provide road-departure mitigation, new traffic jam assist, auto high-beam, low-speed braking control (new for CR-V) and traffic sign recognition (new for CR-V).
The new model goes on sale from the following prices (drive-away). It joins the recently-announced ZR-V small SUV.
2024 Honda CR-V VTi X: $44,500
2024 Honda CR-V VTi L: $48,800
2024 Honda CR-V VTi X7: $46,800
2024 Honda CR-V VTi L7: $53,000
2024 Honda CR-V VTi L AWD: $51,300
2024 Honda CR-V VTi LX AWD: $57,000
2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid e:HEV RS: $59,900