The 2017 Honda CR-V is launched: A shattered dream of a 7-seater vehicle.

On October 13th, Honda officially unveiled the 5th generation CR-V, featuring a more practical design, a new 1.5L turbo engine, a more luxurious interior, while retaining its 5-seat configuration.

The 2017 CR-V was launched globally from the United States.

Throughout the development of the 5th generation CR-V, numerous sources based on leaked specifications and test vehicle images suggested that the all-new Honda CR-V would have a third row of seats – meaning this crossover would offer a 7-seat option. This is a strategy Hyundai successfully implemented for the Santa Fe.

However, those who were eagerly awaiting this were disappointed when the Japanese automaker officially introduced the all-new 5th generation CR-V globally from the US market.

The US was chosen as the first market because the Honda CR-V is very successful there. The CR-V is currently Honda's second-best-selling vehicle, with nearly 4 million units sold over the past two decades, and it leads the compact SUV segment – ​​a segment that includes the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Chevrolet Equinox, and Ford Escape.

In its latest generation, the Honda CR-V has undergone a comprehensive redesign of its exterior, upgraded interior luxury, with the most significant highlight being an increased wheelbase for greater usable space. Simultaneously, the Japanese manufacturer has added a 1.5L turbo engine option for those who crave power.

Honda maximized practicality in the 2017 CR-V. The Japanese automaker chose a bold yet safe approach so that users wouldn't be overwhelmed by the changes. While the overall design remains familiar, the lines are noticeably more substantial than before.

Specifically, the front end easily reminds viewers of the 2016 Honda Civic. The grille has been redesigned to be larger, paired with full LED headlights. For the first time, the Honda CR-V is equipped with an automatic grille opening and closing system. Chrome is extensively used to plate details on the front of the car, window trim, etc.

Meanwhile, the taillights haven't changed much. The most noteworthy feature at the rear is the hands-free trunk opening technology, similar to that found on luxury cars. When carrying items, users simply need to have the key in their possession and kick the trunk under the vehicle, and the trunk will automatically open.

Inside, the entire control system remains user-friendly but is enhanced with materials that increase the luxurious feel of the Honda CR-V. The infotainment screen is a 7-inch color touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

Most importantly, Honda increased the wheelbase of the CR-V to 2660mm, a 40mm increase compared to the previous generation. This expansion is concentrated towards the rear, giving the Honda CR-V the most legroom in its segment.

Some notable interior additions include: dual-zone automatic climate control, customizable ambient lighting, electronic parking brake (EPB), and USB ports for the rear seats.

The standard version of the Honda CR-V now also comes equipped with 6 airbags, electronic stability control, collision warning, acceleration assist, lane departure warning, blind spot detection, automatic high/low beam adjustment, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Two engine options are available, notably the 1.5L turbo DOHC engine, producing a maximum power of 190 hp at 5600 rpm and a maximum torque of 243 Nm at 2000-5000 rpm. This particular version features push-button start.

The other option is the 2.4L i-VTEC engine, producing 184 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 244 Nm of torque at 3900 rpm. Both engine versions come with a CVT transmission, making the 2017 Honda CR-V the most fuel-efficient in its segment.

The car's price will be announced and it will go on sale in the US starting later this year. After that, the 5th generation Honda CR-V will appear in many other countries, including Vietnam.

According to Zing