The CR-V family unit has grown – a new generation of Honda’s compact crossover will deliver extra strength in the seat count.

ONE edition within the new Honda CR-V range set to come on sale in July will deliver something new for the model – an extra row of seats.

Honda New Zealand has confirmed it will introduce a seven-seat version of the all-new car, but for now only in front-drive format.

The trim specification of this first-time format has yet to be provided. The car will place alongside several front and all-wheel-drive versions that continue to configure in the more familiar five-seat format.

The variant is expected to go head to head with other mid-size seven-seat SUVs including the just refreshed Nissan X-Trail, Mitsubishi’s Outlander and Volkswagen’s impending Tiguan Allspace. 

The fifth-generation CR-V takes just one powertrain, a 140kW/240Nm ‘Earth Dreams’ turbo-petrol VTEC engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission.

This engine is an uprated version of the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit that powers the new Civic that was launched last year in sedan guise and arrives next month as a hatchback. It’s the first turbo petrol for the car.

Honda has promised this fifth gen car will build on the characteristics of the previous CR-Vs, such roominess, flexibility and “off-highway” capability.

The model has an all-new platform, will offer “benchmark steering precision, ride comfort, body control and cabin quietness,” according to the Japanese car-maker. 

The model is 14mm shorter than the model it replaces, but the wheelbase is about 40mm longer, and it is close to 30mm lower and about 35mm wider than the fourth-gen car.

All wheel drive models feature an upgraded Real Time AWD System with a significant increase in maximum rear wheel torque delivery and new electronic control allowing stepless control in everyday driving conditions and further improved all weather confidence and control.  

“The new Honda CR-V raises the bar in every way, delivering more style, performance, economy, space, safety, connectivity and premium interior than ever before,” said Nadine Bell, General Manager Marketing, Honda New Zealand.

“Customers are going to love what they see and what they experience behind the wheel of this new CR-V.”