Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - All-New 2012 Honda CR-V Adds Style, Functionality and Increased Fuel Economy

Popular SUV introduces innovative features for music and SMS texting, new Real Time AWD system debuts, and FWD model achieves 31 mpg highway EPA rating

TORRANCE, Calif., Nov. 16, 2011 � All new for 2012, the fourth-generation Honda CR-V introduces an upscale styling direction, greater fuel efficiency, and added features and functionality, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.

With the previous-generation CR-V recognized as a �Top Recommended Vehicle� and having the �Best Retained Value SUV under $25,000� by Edmunds.com, and named top compact crossover SUV in dependability by J.D. Power and Associates, the all-new 2012 model introduces the latest evolution of Honda�s successful CR-V formula. Compact on the outside and roomy inside, the CR-V represents an ideal balance for size and capability in the entry SUV segment. The all-new five-passenger CR-V offers improved car-like interior comfort, a smoother and quieter ride, and even more innovative features than the previous model.

Powerful and Efficient 4-Cylinder Engine
Leading the changes are a more efficient engine design with improved horsepower and torque, along with an all-new Real Time All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System�. All CR-Vs are powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft. of torque paired with a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. EPA-estimated fuel economy¹ is rated at 23/31/26 mpg city/highway/combined (FWD) (an increase of +2/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V), and a compact SUV-class leading 22/30/25 mpg city/highway/combined (AWD) (an increase of +1/+3/+2 mpg compared to the 2011 CR-V). Eco Assist, a new feature on the CR-V for 2012, indicates to the driver when the vehicle is being operated in an efficient style via �green� visual cues surrounding the speedometer, and a selectable ECON Mode alters operating characteristics of the vehicle to support an efficient driving style.

New Standard Features
New for 2012 standard features include an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat and a range of standard technology features. New high-tech features on all models include a Bluetooth�² HandsFreeLink� phone interface (previously an available feature), a full-color intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) and a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines. As a first for Honda, every 2012 CR-V includes an SMS text messaging function, which can read received texts from compatible cell phones aloud over the audio system. Another first is the introduction of a Pandora� Internet Radio interface³, compatible with the Apple� iPhone�, which works with the vehicle�s audio controls and i-MID.

Model Range
The CR-V lineup starts with the CR-V LX model, now with more standard equipment for 2012. The CR-V LX is equipped with air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, i-MID, remote entry, a 160-watt, a 4-speaker audio system, Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS). The CR-V EX adds an upgraded six-speaker audio system, power moonroof, 17-inch alloy wheels and more. The CR-V EX-L builds on the rich features of the CR-V EX and adds a leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver�s seat, automatic dual-zone climate control, 360-watt 7-speaker audio system with XM�⁴ Radio and much more. Available features for the CR-V EX-L include the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System⁵ with Voice Recognition� and FM Traffic, or a DVD Rear Entertainment System (not available with Navigation). Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System� is an available feature on each model.

Design
The 2012 CR-V body adopts a more dynamic and sophisticated appearance compared to the previous generation. The CR V�s spacious interior layout is more accommodating with a roomy new center console (now standard) and an overall lower cargo floor height for easy loading and unloading. The new Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat makes accessing the full capability of the cargo area much more convenient than traditional folding seats. Each side of the rear seat can fold nearly flat into the front of the cargo area using one of the release levers located near the tailgate, or a pull-strap positioned on the seat side.

Safety
Every CR-V incorporates as standard equipment VSA, an electronic stability control system; an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist; side-curtain airbags; front-side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and a front seat design that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. An Advanced Compatibility Engineering� (ACE�) body structure in the front of the vehicle helps make the vehicle highly effective at absorbing and dispersing the energy of a frontal crash.

Warranty
The 2012 Honda CR-V is covered by a 3-year/36,000-mile new-car limited warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and a 5-year/unlimited-mile corrosion limited warranty.

¹Based on 2012 EPA mileage estimates. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.
²The Bluetooth� word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Honda Motor Co., Ltd., is under license.
³Carrier data charges may apply.
⁴Required XM Radio subscription sold separately. Subscriptions are governed by the XM Customer Agreement available at xmradio.com/service terms. Other fees and taxes apply; see XM Customer Agreement for details. Fees and programming subject to change. Service not available in Canada, Alaska, or Hawaii. � 2011 SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. SIRIUS, XM and all related marks and logos are trademarks of SIRIUS XM Radio Inc. and its subsidiaries.
⁵The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System� is available on the CR-V EX-L in the United States, except Alaska. Please see your Honda dealer for details. Certain functions that rely on a satellite signal will not work correctly in Hawaii and Alaska. These functions include, but are not limited to, automatic clock updates and time zone adjustments.

RELATED

Full photo gallery of 2012 Honda CR-V

TOV Video: 2012 CR-V First Drive Impressions

TOV Video: 2012 CR-V Walkaround and technology demonstration