"If it ain't broke, don't fix it." This old adage seems to be guiding Honda nowadays, as most of its best-selling models get only a modest refresh each new model year. For example, the ‘all-new' Civic that came out last year is pretty much the same car that's been around since 2004 but with a new face and a redesigned rear. Still, they're selling those in the thousands. So when the fourth-generation of Honda's compact SUV, the CR-V, was announced I didn't expect much change. And I was right. With five million units shifted since its launch in 1996, the CR-V is a global success for the carmaker, so it was only natural if Honda didn't want to bring about a drastic change. What they've done is build on the previous model's winning attributes and give them a slight refresh so that it keeps attracting new buyers while not offending current CR-V owners who would want to upgrade sometime soon.
The main modifications to the CR-V's exterior include a more aggressive-looking face defined by a new horizontal three-bar grille that we first saw in the Accord Crosstour and the new Odyssey MPV, and a redesigned front bumper. As with the new Civic, the side profile remains more or less unchanged apart from the rear pillar, while the rear has received a bit of sprucing up with new taillights and bumper. So overall, it's the same package with a little make-up.
However, the changes inside, especially to the dashboard do not seem to be an upgrade from the previous model. But I particularly liked the simplified, multi-layered instrument panel with its 3D effect. The low dashboard and the seating position could fool you into thinking you're driving an Accord, and although it's nothing fancy, all the switches and controls are nicely laid out. Even the top-end EX-L trim in our region doesn't come with a sat-nav, so it's a small 5in screen that takes centre-stage in the cabin, displaying fuel economy figures, audio playback info and so on. But I found it difficult to read from this screen while driving in noon-time glare. Like its predecessor, the new CR-V's gear shifter is mounted high up on the dashboard, but in the new one the centre console flows all the way between the front seats and incorporates three cupholders and a storage compartment. Also new in the 2012 model is the rear AC blowers mounted behind the centre console.
Coming to the powertrain, it's again the same old story. The CR-V still comes only with a 2.4-litre in-line four engine, although for 2012, it's been massaged to produce 20 more horses than before, putting out 188bhp at 7,000rpm. No doubt, Honda's four-cylinder lump remains one of the smoothest operators in the segment, despite being stuck with the old five-speed automatic box, which gets taller ratios for better fuel economy. The fuel economy is indeed impressive with my test car averaging 10.1 over the weekend. Honda claims this can be further improved by pressing that green ‘Econ' button to the left of the steering wheel, which alters powertrain and AC characteristics.
The ride is by far the smoothest in its class thanks to a retuned suspension, but although Honda claims its new sound-deadening technology keeps outside noises at bay, my test car had significant tyre noise seeping into the cabin. The new electric power steering system makes the CR-V extremely manoeuvrable but the downside is that it feels a bit disconnected from the road. But that little quibble aside, the chassis is surprisingly sporty for a utility vehicle, with bends and corners met with a great poise that none of its competitors can boast of. In fact, driving the 2012 CR-V is more like being behind the wheel of an Accord Saloon, which is a good thing considering it's meant to be just a people mover with some nominal off-road capabilities. And Honda says the electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system in the new car will act much quicker than before when loss of traction is detected. But I doubt the typical CR-V buyer will care.
Verdict
The 2012 update is a booster shot with which Honda aims to get its golden goose to lay even more eggs than before. And considering the sales success that the less attractive previous generations had, I have no doubt it will.
If you were expecting a groundbreaking transformation, the 2012 CR-V will disappoint you, but if a mild update to the previous model with all its goodness retained is what you want, then this one should be right up your alley.
Specs & ratings
- Model CR-V EX-L
- Engine 2.4-litre four-cyl
- Transmission Five-speed auto, AWD
- Max power 188bhp @ 7,000rpm
- Max torque 222Nm @ 4,400rpm
- Top speed NA
- 0-100kph NA
- Price Dh125,999 (as tested)
