HONDA Malaysia's sixth generation Comfortable Runabout Vehicle, better known as CR-V, is now open for booking at all 101 dealerships nationwide.
Slated to be launched in December, the company's new flagship sports utility vehicle (SUV) will be available in two powertrain options.
First would be the 2.0L e:HEV powertrain which, with an aim to deliver a higher top speed, is the first model among Honda's lineup to receive an e:HEV powertrain with an improved Hybrid Traction Motor coupled with an Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e:CVT) with a new framework.
The setup delivers 184PS of maximum power and 335Nm of torque.
As the more premium option the two-wheel drive (2WD) e:HEV RS features a front grille with a bold mesh pattern, full LED headlights and tail-lights, LED front fog lights, front LED sequential turn signals, sleek door handles, Berlina Black 18-inch alloy wheels, and an Active Shutter Grille that is mounted on the front lower bumper for enhanced aerodynamics and fuel efficiency - a first in the model.
The other is an advanced 1.5L VTEC turbocharged engine that is paired to an advanced CVT which delivers a maximum power of 193PS and a peak torque of 243Nm.
It is understood that at least the top variant of the 1.5L VTEC turbocharged engine will come with an advanced Real Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system that enhances distribution of driving force to all four wheels.
A host of technological features to accompany the 6th Gen CR-V includes the new innovative Hands-Free Power Tailgate with Walkaway Close feature for easy access to the boot and automatic closing upon walking away, a Multi-View Camera System that provides the driver with a 360-degree view, Honda Connect, and Honda Sensing that is complete with features such as a Wide-Angle Radar and Camera, Sonar Sensor for Low Speed Braking Control, and Lane Keep Assist System - it isn't clear if the latter is only available to the e:HEV RS variant.
Additional functions such as Adaptive Driving Beam is also exclusive for the e:HEV RS variant. This makes it the first Honda model to have the feature.
"Re-engineered with a comprehensive SUV package, we are confident that the 6th gen CR-V will once again set a new benchmark in the non-national SUV segment and captivate the hearts of Malaysians who seek an SUV that embodies elegance and confidence while delivering an exhilarating driving experience," said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura.
"The CR-V has a 20-year history as the first Completely Knocked-Down (CKD) model to roll out from our Melaka manufacturing plant in 2003. With a legacy that predates this milestone, our flagship SUV has had a profound impact on the automotive industry in Malaysia, winning the hearts of generations of owners.
"To-date, the CR-V has sold more than 129,000 units, solidifying its position as one of Honda Malaysia's highest contributors to our sales history. We anticipate its continued dominance in the Non-National SUV segment with the imminent launch of the 6th Gen CR-V," he added.
Selected Honda dealerships will hold exclusive previews for customers to experience prior to the models launch.
In the East Coast would be Ban Chu Bee Sdn Bhd on Nov 17-18 and Syarikat Tan Eng Ann Sdn Bhd on Nov 18-19.
The Southern Region's Ban Lee Heng Motor (Melaka) Sdn Bhd, Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd in Tebrau, and Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd will have their session from Nov 25-26.
Elmina Motors Sdn Bhd is the first in the Central Region to hold its preview session as it shares the same dates with that of the Southern Region.
Botanic Auto Mall Sdn Bhd, Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd, and Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd will hold theirs on Dec 2-3.
Northern Region's Formula Venture Sdn Bhd, Motoria Sdn Bhd and Vivahill Auto Sdn Bhd will cap off the event when it runs the last session on Dec 9-10.
The 6th Gen CR-V will be the last model Honda Malaysia launches for 2023.