The previews of the 2017 Honda CR-V so far have revealed both 1.5L VTEC Turbo and 2.0 normally-aspirated versions of the fifth-generation SUV, but nothing specific has been mentioned as to just how many variants there will be in the line-up.
We now know there’s four at the very least, of which three are 1.5 litre VTEC Turbo versions – the range-topper will be a 1.5L VTEC Turbo Premium 2WD with Lanewatch and Honda Sensing, items which have been mentioned but not seen on the second variant in the range, a 1.5L VTEC Turbo AWD (as seen in Kota Kinabalu).
The third is a 1.5L VTEC Turbo 2WD, which was on call at a special event to highlight the elements of the Honda Sensing suite (via the 1.5L VTEC Turbo Premium 2WD) earlier today. Finally, there’s a baseline 2.0L i-VTEC 2WD, which was the CR-V model previewed in Penang earlier this month. A 4WD version of the 2.0 litre is looking unlikely, but if it does then the range will consist of five models.
All the 1.5L VTEC Turbo variants use a 1.5 litre direct injection turbocharged VTEC engine with 193 PS and 243 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 5,000 rpm, while the base model retains the previously-seen R20 naturally-aspirated 2.0 litre i-VTEC motor with 155 PS and 190 Nm. Both models get Honda’s Earth Dreams CVT transmission, replacing the five-speed auto seen in the outgoing model.
It was also confirmed at today’s event that the entire fifth-gen CR-V range sold in Malaysia will all be five-seater versions.
As to why the seven-seat model is not making its way here, Honda Malaysia personnel said that based on a survey carried out by the company early on, buyers in the target market for the car responded that extra seats aren’t really a primary point of consideration. Instead, most place space and features ahead of extra seats, and that’s why we’re only getting a five-seat model.
GALLERY: 2017 Honda CR-V 1.5L VTEC Turbo AWD in Malaysia
GALLERY: 2017 Honda CR-V 2.0L i-VTEC 2WD in Malaysia
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments indicate disappointment among consumers about Honda Malaysia's decision to produce only a five-seater CR-V, as many desire a seven-seater option for larger families. Several comments question the survey methodology, suggesting it may not accurately reflect market demand, especially from larger families who frequently need extra seats. There is concern that Honda Malaysia's approach will lead customers to consider competitors like Nissan X-Trail, Kia Sorento, or Mitsubishi Outlander. Many feel the absence of a 7-seater diminishes the CR-V's appeal and may result in lost sales. Despite positive sentiments about the styling and features, the primary dissatisfaction revolves around the limited seating options, with some commentators criticizing the survey process and Honda Malaysia's market strategy.