Honda CR-V is the best selling small crossover in the United States. And the face-lifted and updated 2015 Honda CR-V is looking to stretch the lead over the competition. How to improve on a good thing?
Honda gives the new CR-V a new more sophisticated front end, upgrades the engine for more torque, adds a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for better fuel economy, adds more standard, and optional safety features. All this and more for a price increase of only $200 over the 2014 model for a starting MSRP of $23,320.
The 2.4L four-cylinder direct-injected i-VTEC engine now weighs less and makes 185 horsepower (same as before), but increases torque to 181 lb-ft (from 163 lb-ft of the 2014 model). This is an 11% torque improvement. It’s mated to the continuously variable transmission with Honda’s “G-design” shift feature that pushes the MPG estimates to 27 MPG city, 34 MPG highway, and 29 MPG combined for the front-wheel drive CR-V. The 2015 model loses the 5-speed automatic in favor of the efficient CVT, and the resulting estimates are impressive. The 2014 CR-V was rated at 23 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. The 2015 model picked up 4 MPG in the city and 3 MPG on the highway. There was no hybrid powertrain option announced.
Interior has also been upgraded. New standard features include the armrest with rear ventilation ducts and sliding sun visors. New optional features include a 10-way power adjustable driver seat, a power lift gate, and LED daytime driving lights.
The 2015 CR-V can be loaded with the most advanced safety technologies. It showcases Honda’s first use of Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). There are also Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Honda LaneWatch that helps with blind spots. Some of these technologies were only available on higher-end Acura models before this. There is a definite trend of high-end technology and safety features trickling down to smallest and least-expensive volume models.
Honda also worked in chassis, suspension, and noise reduction tuning. There are Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering and Vehicle Stability Assist that make driving more enjoyable and safer.
There is little doubt that the 2015 Honda CR-V will continue the successful sales progress for Honda.
Here is a TFLcar four-way comparison including the 2014 Honda CR-V.
Andre Smirnov is a life-long automotive enthusiast, video producer, writer, reporter, and software engineer. He has been a contributor at TFL since 2011.
