2007 Honda CR-V -- Overview (Pt. 1)

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Overview

The Honda CR-V is a highly-versatile four-door entry crossover SUV with a roomy 5-passenger interior, sedan-like handling and comfort, and a reputation for offering the highest levels of standard safety features in the segment. The all-new 2007 Honda CR-V adds a dynamic sense of style and refinement, bridging the space between sport and utility better than any CR-V yet - while adding recently-developed collision compatibility safety enhancements like Honda's exclusive Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) Body Structure.

Now in its third generation since its 1997 U.S. debut, the CR-V helped establish the crossover SUV segment - now the fastest growing portion of the light truck market and forecast to be the second largest automotive segment overall by the end of the decade. Sold in more countries than any other Honda vehicle, the CR-V is among the best-selling vehicles for Honda globally, cumulatively reaching approximately 2.5 million customers in 160 different countries over its lifetime.

As a crossover SUV, the foundation of the CR-V starts with unit-body construction for sedan-like on-road performance, maximized interior packaging, optimized safety construction and good fuel economy for an SUV. Since unit-body construction allows for interior space to be maximized, the CR-V's packaging provides generous 5-passenger interior space and superior cargo functionality relative to traditional SUV designs that are inherently less space-efficient.

New Technology and Features

* Distinctive, upscale, dynamic and versatile design
* Standard safety equipment includes ACE Body Structure and Active Head Restraints
* Interior design and amenities deliver near-luxury style and refinement
* New body and chassis designs result in smoother, more agile performance and quieter cabin
* 10 more horsepower (166 hp) and standard automatic transmission
* Improved ingress/egress with optimized door designs and 1.3 inch lower step-in height
* Dual-deck cargo shelf (available)
* Available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition

CR-V Highlights

* 5-passenger entry crossover SUV
* Unit-body construction with independent front and rear suspensions
* Standard side curtain airbags, front side airbags, ABS, VSA and TPMS
* 2.4-liter 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine with 166 horsepower, 161 lb-ft. torque
* Standard 5-speed automatic transmission
* Passenger volume = 103.8 (LX), Min. Cargo Volume: 35.7 Max. Cargo Volume: 72.9
* Anticipated Safety Ratings*: NHTSA 5-Star Frontal/5-Star Side

*Honda test results.

Distinctive, Dynamic and Emotional Design

The CR-V's new direction goes beyond evolution and results in more style in a smarter and more sophisticated package. The CR-V is designed to be the best balance of size and performance ideal for professionals or families who need a vehicle that can perform triple duty as a daily driver, a family hauler and as a platform for active outdoor lifestyles. At home on a snowy mountain road or in the valet queue downtown, the 2007 CR-V moves beyond conventional SUV styling with ultra-modern lines, a fashionable presence and a meticulous attention to detail.

A dynamic and emotional forward cabin blends the familiar CR-V identity into a sculpted lower body with modular and protective lower body styling. A new double grille and a side profile with an arched window shape accent the CR-V's distinctive and upscale presence. Adding to the clean lines, the spare tire now resides under the rear floor as opposed to the exterior of the tailgate; benefiting aesthetics, visibility and garage-ability.

'Safety for Everyone' Initiative and Top Level Safety Equipment

Through a comprehensive and evolving approach to vehicle safety, Honda seeks to provide a high level of occupant and pedestrian protection in all of our cars and trucks, regardless of size or price, as well as increased compatibility with other vehicles as part of the Safety for Everyone initiative.

Consistent with Safety for Everyone, Honda provides the segment's highest levels of standard safety equipment in every CR-V regardless of trim level. The 2007 CR-V integrates Honda's most advanced safety technology with the revolutionary ACE Body Structure and six airbags in every model and trim level. The ACE Body Structure enhances frontal collision energy management through a network of load bearing front frame structures that provide an increased opportunity for two vehicles to properly connect during a collision, including larger and smaller vehicles with differing bumper heights. Unique in the automotive industry, the ACE Body Structure elevates real-world safety to a new level by better utilizing the crumple zone and dispersing energy away from the passenger area through more load-bearing channels.

Inside, every CR-V incorporates side curtain airbags and front side airbags as standard equipment, along with active head restraints that are designed to reduce the chance of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Additional standard safety features include dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), anti-lock brakes (ABS), front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, and a pedestrian safety design in the front of the vehicle. Passenger-side seatbelt reminders and daytime running lights are also new for the 2007 CR-V.

The previous generation CR-V (2002 - 2006) set a new standard for vehicle safety when the 2002 CR-V became one of the first few vehicles ever to earn the federal government's top Five Star safety rating for the driver and front passenger and rear seat outboard passengers in both frontal and side impact crash tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The 2007 CR-V builds on Honda's industry-leading emphasis on safety and outdistances the competition by implementing new technology and features that go beyond conventional industry standards with innovations such as the ACE Body Structure and pedestrian safety, just to name two.

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Enhanced Body Design

The 2007 CR-V has an entirely new body design. The exterior width has increased by 1.4 inches to 71.6 inches while the body length has decreased by 3.1 inches (due mostly to the relocation of the spare tire from the rear bumper to underneath the rear cargo area). The length of the vehicle minus the spare tire remains nearly the same.

The unit-body construction features extensive use of strategically strengthened areas with expanded use of high strength steel to provide high levels of rigidity. Improved NVH was also targeted and the new model features extensive use of the latest noise absorption materials to help reduce engine and road noise for an ultra-quiet cabin.

Sedan-like Performance, SUV Versatility

The CR-V uses a compact platform that features the safety-enhancing ACE Body Structure. It also provides extremely high levels of rigidity and an independent front and rear suspension for handling performance, which also results in space-efficient packaging. Comprised of a front MacPherson strut layout and a rear multi-link suspension, the highly rigid body and independent suspension offer an engaging driving experience rare for this class of vehicle.

Honda-Smart Interior with Advanced Features and Modern Styling

The inside of the 2007 CR-V blends Honda's industry renowned ergonomics and clever storage integration with classy, modern and efficient architecture. Honda stylists and engineers prioritized sophistication to create a high-quality, advanced and sporty space with the latest technology and innovative storage solutions. For 2007, more standard features and available new features like a navigation system with voice recognition highlight the dedication to taking the interior to an entirely new level.

The increased body width allows the seats to be wider and more supportive, and a newly-designed retractable center tray table not only provides the prerequisite beverage holders and sub-tray, but EX and above models also contain an additional 12V power outlet and auxiliary audio jack. CR-V models outfitted with a leather interior (EX-L) provide a spacious multi-function center console that can accommodate up to 24 compact discs (on models without the navigation system).

On EX and above models, a dual-deck cargo shelf provides additional storage options in the cargo area and can hold up to 20 pounds, while providing enough clearance underneath for grocery bags or items such as a folded stroller. Key interior dimensions remain similar to the generous proportions of the 2006 model.

The latest generation of the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition and Rearview Camera is available on the CR-V EX-L featuring a 6.5-inch mechanical display that opens and closes for access to the internal single-disc CD player and a digital audio card reader that can play MP3 and WMA files from CompactFlash(R) cards. The navigation system features more than 7 million points of interest and can control the audio system. The voice recognition is capable of recognizing and inputting numbers, street names and cities.

For 2007, all audio systems are more powerful with at least 160 watts. As much as 270 Watts and seven speakers including a subwoofer are available on the EX-L with Navigation. Auxiliary audio input jacks are standard equipment on all trim levels, allowing for portable music device playback through the CR-V's speakers. XM(R) Satellite Radio is standard on the EX-L. The LX trim level has a four-speaker 160-watt audio system with a single-disc CD player. All CR-V audio systems have MP3/WMA CD playback capability and Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC) that automatically adjusts the volume based on vehicle speed.

Refined and Efficient Powertrain

The CR-V is powered by Honda's 2.4-liter, Dual-Over Head Cam, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine that offers refined and responsive performance with good fuel economy (estimated mid 20's combined) and low emissions (CARB LEV II ULEV). A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment on all CR-Vs, and a traction-enhancing Real Time 4WD system is available.

The engine produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb-ft. of torque - a 10-horsepower increase and a broader torque curve compared to the 2006 CR-V. The power upgrade is attributable to a slight increase in compression ratio and enhanced valvetrain, intake and exhaust tuning. From a refinement standpoint, the Drive-by-Wire (DBW) throttle control works closely with the transmission for extremely smooth shift points and intuitive gear holding on hilly roads.

Overall, the CR-V four-wheel drive system is designed to best match the way the majority of driving situations that most SUV's realistically encounter. The fully automatic Real Time 4WD system (available) enhances the CR-V's all-weather capabilities when driving in rain, snow, dirt roads and sandy conditions - without the significant weight, fuel economy and handling performance drawbacks of a conventional four-wheel-drive system. For 2007, enhancements have been made to the system for improved torque transfer to the rear wheels - making the CR-V even better in rain, snow and sand.

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Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options

CR-V LX:
166 hp, 2.4-liter 16-valve i-VTEC engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, available Real Time 4WD system, 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction control, 17-inch steel wheels, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), front, front side and side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, daytime running lights (DRL), Maintenance Minder system, AM/FM/CD audio system with MP3/WMA playback and four speakers, MP3/auxiliary audio input jack, air conditioning with air-filtration system, tilt and telescoping steering column, conversation mirror with sunglasses holder, power windows with drivers auto up/down, programmable power door locks, power side mirrors, retractable center tray table, upper and lower glove compartments, under-seat storage bin, 60/40 split sliding fold and tumble rear seats, ambient console lighting, remote entry system

CR-V EX adds or replaces LX features:
One-touch power moonroof with tilt feature, chrome grille and rear license trim, rear privacy glass, security system, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, dual-deck cargo shelf, AM/FM/6-disc in-dash audio system with six speakers, exterior temperature indicator, 17-inch alloy wheels

CR-V EX-L adds or replaces EX features:
Leather trimmed seats and armrests, heated front seats, body-colored side mirrors and door handles, XM Satellite Radio, available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation with Voice Recognition(TM) and rearview camera, AM/FM/6-disc center console CD changer audio system with seven speakers including subwoofer (with navigation)

CR-V Background

Introduced to the U.S. market in 1997 as one of the pioneers in the entry sport utility vehicle market, the versatile and fun-to-drive Honda CR-V became the benchmark for this fast growing segment of vehicles. The CR-V broke new ground in the truck/car crossover market with its long list of standard features, competitive price, renowned Honda quality and spirited performance.

Not only did the CR-V help establish a new breed of small, smart and functional vehicles, but it also became the best-selling vehicle in the segment. The CR-V was the first Honda-designed and engineered SUV. It combines 4-wheel-drive capability and utility with passenger-car drivability, comfort and convenience.

The CR-V is truly a global product for Honda sold in 160 countries in North America, Europe, Asia, South America and Africa. In fact, the CR-V is sold in more countries than any other Honda automotive product. Worldwide, cumulative sales are approximately 2.5 million (since 1996) with 1.2 million sold in the United States (since 1997). Worldwide, 334,000 units were sold in 2005 with 150,000 sold in the United States.

Manufacturing

Worldwide, the CR-V is built in seven countries at eight factories, and for the first time it will be built in North America at Honda of America Manufacturing in the East Liberty Plant.

Honda Value

Every Honda is a model of smart value thanks to timeless design, top-of-class fuel efficiency, legendary reliability and extended service intervals. Recent Honda accolades include "Best Resale Value" awards from Kelly Blue Book, eight 2006 "Best Overall Value of the Year" awards from IntelliChoice and for the three consecutive years Honda has won the prestigious "Industry Brand Residual Value Award" from Automotive Lease Guide.

Some highlights of CR-V awards include:

Autobytel: Best Car for Teen Drivers (2006)
Consumer Guide: Best Buy Compact SUV (2006, 2005)
Vencentric: Best Value in America, Compact SUV, under $22,500 (2006, 2005)
Automotive Lease Guide: Compact SUV Residual Value Award (2005)
Intellichoice: Compact Sport Utility Class Over $21,000 (2005)
Edmunds.com: Lowest True Cost to Own: SUV Under $25,000 (2004)
J.D. Power & Associates: Vehicle Dependability Study - Highest Ranked Entry SUV (2004)
The Car Book: Best Bet (2004)
Car and Driver: 5 Best Trucks (2003, 2002)