2021 Honda CR-V – More standard safety and tech than before

The Honda CR-V embodies the Japanese brand’s esteemed traits as to practicality. Undeniably, this compact crossover happens to be a well-packaged product from Honda, that is why many buyers are leaning towards this family-oriented cruiser. Honda Cars Philippines just launched the refreshed 2021 Honda CR-V, though looks may not be entirely different given that this is just a facelift, but this new model is rich with additional features over its predecessor. 

As mentioned, the Honda CR-V still is that familiar crossover, although there are some mild updates that are worth pointing out. The following changes include its front bumper that has been re-executed, as evidenced from that silver garnish strip which runs from the top portion of the bumper up to the bottom of the LED fog lights. In terms of its lighting system, the SX Diesel, S Diesel, and the 2.0 S Gas get the full-LED setup with an auto-leveling feature. The V Diesel, on the other hand, gets halogen projector headlights.

Going over the side, nothing much has changed, perhaps, except for the new set of 18-inch alloys, which are available on the entry-level S and the range-topping SX Diesel. 

The back, on the other hand, also sports a revised bumper that has a pair of newly shaped reflectors coupled with a newly laid out satin silver trim.

Likewise, the entire layout of the cabin remains a familiar sanctuary. Also, buyers are still given the choice of a 7-seater or a 5-seater which is a configuration that’s only available on the gas variant. Going further, the cabin still sports that black interior, S and SX variants get special wood paneling while the rest are then replaced with silver accents instead. All trims except the V Diesel gets smart keyless entry along with a push start button. 

At the heart of the dashboard is a 7-inch touchscreen display that has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While that larger touchscreen is reserved for the SX Diesel, S Diesel, and the 2.0 S Gas, the V Diesel, on the other hand, gets a 5-inch audio display. The range-topper is the only one that benefits from an 8-speaker sound system, while the rest of the variants get a 4-speaker setup. 

Other notable features include a panoramic sunroof and power-adjustable seats, both an SX exclusive. Lastly, leather seats and different variations of the automatic climate control setup are standard on all trims of the 2021 CR-V. 

To start it all off, this refreshed compact crossover gets driver and front passenger on the V Diesel, and an additional side and curtain units on the rest of its trims. Moreover, the 2021 Honda CR-V also gets Vehicle Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake Force Distribution, and an Emergency Stop Signal.

Other complementary safety features include a multi-view reverse camera, the LaneWatch Camera which is available on all variants except the V Diesel, a low tire pressure warning, and front and rear parking sensors, which are exclusive on the SX.

Notably, the SX and S Diesel come standard with the Honda SENSING package, therefore giving buyers access to some advanced driver-assist features, including Forward-Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, and many more.

Like its predecessor, the 2021 Honda CR-V comes with two power plant choices along with an AWD option which is solely available on the SX. There’s a 2.0-liter four-cylinder SOHC i-VTEC engine, it is able to produce 152 hp and 189 Nm of torque. The said mill is then paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Now, for the crowd favorite, it’s a 1.6 four-cylinder DOHC i-DTEC Turbo engine, that puts out 118 hp and 300 Nm of torque, which is mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission. 

The refreshed Honda CR-V is composed of four variants. The entry-level 2.0 S CVT starts at P1,678,000. Now, the first step to the diesel is the V trim which equates to P1,713,000, if you want more extra features, you’re going to have to go up to the S Diesel, which therefore costs at P1,888,000. Lastly, if you really do need the AWD system, then you can go straight up to the SX AWD which retails at P2,158,000.

Color options for the refreshed 2021 Honda CR-V include Modern Steel, Cosmic Blue, Ignite Red, and Platinum White Pearl.