2018 Honda CR-V Review

Detailed Review

The Honda CR-V launched its production in 1995 and has undergone six generations of production to be what it is today. Its fifth generation uses the same Honda compact global platform that was first introduced in the Civic. The 2018 Honda CR-V comes with two engine options, a 1.5 L Turbocharged (Petrol), and 2.4 L (Petrol) linked to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Click here to purchase the 2018 Honda CR-V Buyer’s Guide. 

2018 Honda CR-V Grades

1. Honda CR-V LX- This grade comes with a 5-inch audio display, four speakers, Bluetooth connectivity, a 12-volt power outlet, a keyless entry, an automatic climate control, and manually adjusted front seats.
2. Honda CR-V EX- This grade has a 7-inch touch screen, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, a USB port, satelite radio, a push-start button, dual-zone climate control, a moonroof, fog lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels.
3. Honda CR-V X-L- This grade boasts a leather wrapped steering wheel, a power liftgate, an eight speaker stereo, a 12-volt power output, Bluetooth connectivity, a centralized door lock, and a keyless entry.
4. Honda CR-V Touring- This grade is equipped with a navigation system, a nine-speaker sound system, LED headlights, a power liftgate, roof rails, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Honda CR-V has a nicely styled interior with soft touches. The first row has ample legroom and headroom and its supportive seats can be reclined to accommodate a desired posture. The second row offers sufficient headroom and knee room.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Honda CR-V encompasses several storage compartments that are designed to improve the ride comfort of its occupants. A glove box, door panel storage, two cupholders, and a center console are included in the first row. Second row occupants have access to jacket pockets, two cupholders mounted on the armrest, and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Honda CR-V has a spacious cargo area that can fit small and medium-sized luggage. The rear seats can be retracted to create more space.

Exterior

The 2018 Honda CR-V has a refined appearance that depicts elegance. Up front sits a nicely curved grille with some chrome finishing or black accents depending on the grade and it is adorned with the prominent Honda logo that is used to stamp its presence. The grille is flanked by aggressive-styled headlights that lend it an upscale look. High trim levels come additional with LED daytime running lights that add more sophistication. The hood bears sculpted lines and it slightly slants to the front hence giving the occupants excellent visibility and command of the oncoming traffic.

The 18-inch alloy wheels as well as contours running from the front fenders to the tail lights adds some flare to this vehicle. A moonroof is incorporated in the CR-V to give ambient lighting in the cabin. The wheel arches are very pronounced and its gently sloping roofline to the rear is perfectly complemented with a roof spoiler which enhances the sportiness of the car as well as improve aerodynamics.

An electronically actuated tailgate as well as tail lights and turn signals at the rear complete the overall look of the CR-V. Roof rails can be added to improve the overall appearance of this car.

2018 Honda CR-V Safety Features

The 2018 Honda CR-V features multiple airbags, stability control, brake assist cruise control, blind spot monitoring, electronic brake force distribution, lane departure warning, and an anti-lock braking system.

2018 Honda CR-V Fuel Consumption

2018 Honda CR-V1.5 L Turbocharged petrol engine consumption- 12.6 km/l on average

2018 Honda CR-V 2.4 L Petrol engine consumption- 11.7  km/l on average

2018 Honda CR-V Acceleration

2018 Honda CR-V 1.5 L Turbocharged petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 10.0 secs

2018 Honda CR-V 2.4 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.6 secs

The 2018 Honda CR-V Fuel Tank Capacity: 53 liters

Ground Clearance: The 2018 Honda CR-V has a ground clearance of 7.8 inches.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are readily available in major towns and comparable in price to those of its competitors. On the other hand, body parts such as headlights can be expensive and sometimes hard to find.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Honda CR-V has an agile and smooth handling. Compared to its rivals, the CR-V has a more driver engagement which makes it thrilling and enjoyable to drive. Its power-assisted steering wheel enables it to effectively adapt to road curves for it gives a responsive feedback. The suspension system is very rigid and provides a firm ride when driving on highways and it also cushions passengers from jarring movements when traversing on rough surfaces.

The engine works in tandem with the transmission system to deliver a smooth start and decent acceleration. Because the CR-V has a high ground clearance that results to a high center of gravity, it is advisable to reduce speed when approaching tight bends as it experiences body rolls. The brakes are robust and capable of bringing this car to a complete stop in a matter of seconds to avert any kind of disaster.

Anti-lock braking system, vehicle stability control and electronic brake force distribution are incorporated in this vehicle to improve its stability.

Reliability

The 2018 Honda CR-V is regarded as a reliable car. It has a high ground clearance that enables it to tackle off-road terrains. However, just like any other vehicle, the CR-V is not immune to problems. Transmission issues and throttle malfunction are the most commonly reported troubles by CR-V owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such problems.

Click here to purchase the 2018 Honda CR-V Buyer’s Guide. 

Resale Value: Average

Honda CR-V Competitors: Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Vanguard, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, and Toyota RAV4.

What we like about the 2018 Honda CR-V

Very agile

Roomy interior and with cavernous cargo capacity for this class

Turbocharged engine delivers a rare combination of thrift and zest

What we don’t

Not the fastest compared to its rivals

Relatively few standard features

Conclusion

The 2018 Honda CR-V has undergone years of production that has allowed room for modifications, tweaks, and improvements to be one of the best selling cars not only in Kenya but also globally. Its refined appearance makes it a good daily driver for urban dwellers, as folks with small families will appreciate its roomy cabin. As much as it is up against formidable brands, it stands out owing to its driver engagement nature and enthusiasts who value performance will get a little bit of it in the turbocharged engine that provides a good blend of thrift and zest. Its exorbitant purchase price limit people on a tight budget from owning it. Click here to download the 2018 Honda CR-V Owner’s Manual.