Nissan will never give up on the Skyline

Honda, a renowned name in the automotive industry, has unleashed a new wave of excitement with the introduction of their latest “sporty SUV” – the 6th Generation CR-V RS. Packed with impressive power and sporting a stylish facade, this addition to the Honda lineup is set to take the market by storm. Starting at a competitive price point of 5.44 million yen in comparison to the new CR-V, the CR-V RS is poised to win the hearts of SUV enthusiasts.

The CR-V has been a flagship crossover SUV for Honda since its initial debut in 1995. With the fifth generation model making its mark in Japan, the current model, which is the 6th generation, has been captivating drivers around the globe since July 2022. However, it’s worth noting that as of September 2023, this model has yet to make its way to Japan, as it remains exclusively designed for overseas markets. The latest model unveiled in the Philippines is the 6th generation CR-V, measuring in at 4691mm in length, 1866mm in width, and 1681mm in height, bearing a striking resemblance to the Toyota Harrier. The wheelbase is thoughtfully set at 2660mm.

Externally, the CR-V RS boasts a sophisticated and commanding exterior. Horizontal lines accentuate its larger frame, and a forward placement of the A-pillar by approximately 15 cm contributes to wider proportions and excellent visibility. New door-mounted side mirrors enhance the overall appeal. Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a cabin with a piano-like finish on elements such as the dashboard and steering wheel, coupled with leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, all contributing to a luxurious ambiance. It embodies a modern and sporty feel in harmony with Honda’s new design concept.

Under the hood, the CR-V RS packs a punch. The regular grade is equipped with a 1.5-liter turbo engine that churns out an impressive 190 horsepower and 240 Nm of maximum torque. Meanwhile, the 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering a maximum output of 148 horsepower and 183 Nm of maximum torque, is also available. For those seeking even more power, the “e:HEV” specification combines a motor boasting a maximum torque of 335Nm, an option exclusively available on the sporty RS grade. The RS grade adds a distinctive touch with features like an RS-specific grille, a panoramic sunroof, piano black side mirrors with turn signals, LED fog lamps, a body-colored rear spoiler with piano black accents, and RS-specific 18-inch wheels, embodying a sporty essence.

Not only is the CR-V RS an automotive marvel in terms of power and design, but it’s also a technological gem. As the first vehicle in the Philippines to feature the latest-generation driver assistance technology known as “Honda CONNECT,” all grades come standard with high-tech features, including the driver assistance technology “Honda SENSING.”

The regular grade is already available, having been released on September 13th, while the RS grade is eagerly anticipated for release by October 2023. Pricing starts at 2.1 million Philippine pesos (approximately 5.44 million yen) for the regular grade and 2.59 million Philippine pesos (approximately 6.71 million yen) for the RS grade. Honda’s CR-V RS is set to redefine the driving experience and captivate SUV enthusiasts with its blend of power, style, and cutting-edge technology.

On January 18, 2024, Honda’s American subsidiary made a significant announcement about the company’s four-wheel vehicle business in the United States for the fiscal year. Among the revelations was the upcoming release of the “super amazing CR-V FCEV,” a novel fuel-powered sporty SUV set to hit the US market later in 2024.

Mamadou Diallo, Senior Vice President of Sales for Honda in the United States, shared insights into the company’s performance, stating, “In 2023, sales for both the Honda and Acura brands rebounded, concluding the year with a remarkable 30% increase. Looking ahead to 2024, we are focusing on capital investment in hybrid vehicles and other products, including the launch of our first mass-produced battery electric vehicle (BEV).

As part of Honda’s strategic approach, the company aims to boost sales of zero-emission vehicles, such as battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). Diallo emphasized their commitment to this goal and revealed plans to introduce the CR-V FCEV, a new addition to the Honda lineup. The CR-V, a popular midsize crossover SUV, has been a global success since its inception in 1995, and the latest 6th generation model, introduced in 2022, has further expanded its appeal.

The CR-V FCEV, based on the current 6th generation model, stands out as the first mass-produced vehicle in North America to seamlessly integrate plug-in functionality and FCEV technology. Honda aims to capitalize on the success of its hybrid models, including the “e:HEV” variant, which became the best-selling hybrid vehicle in the United States with annual sales reaching 197,317 units by 2023.

In addition to the CR-V FCEV, Honda’s US subsidiary plans to launch Acura’s electric SUV, the “ZDX,” in early 2024. Furthermore, the company is gearing up for the release of the new BEV, “Prologue,” within the next few months, signaling Honda’s commitment to a diverse and innovative electric vehicle lineup.

Mamadou Diallo outlined the company’s vision for zero-emission vehicles, stating, “In 2024, we will begin selling three zero-emission vehicles, contributing to our goal of achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2040 and ultimately realizing carbon neutrality by 2050. These initiatives mark our dedication to sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.” Honda’s upcoming releases showcase their commitment to innovation and align with global efforts to address climate change through the adoption of electric and fuel cell technologies.