With plenty of affordable seven-seaters in the market, many overlook the fully-loaded, range-topping CR-V SX Diesel 9AT AWD (with Honda Sensing). One main detractor is the P2.253 million price tag, which is already at the mid-size SUV level. But don’t strike it off your list until you learn more about it.
Its body has an underrated look that oozes sophistication and style without going overboard with lines and creases. It has functional roof rails, slim body
cladding, a roof spoiler, a shark’s fin antenna, and a power tailgate. Despite its age — this fifth-generation is already seven years old — it still has up-to-date exterior features like full LED headlights with auto-leveling function, LED daytime running lamps, LED fog lights, LED taillights, and even an LED high-mount stop lamp.
The best thing about the front fascia is the stylish slim lighting system that matches the body’s slim profile. The grille is a little outdated but does not take too
many pogi points away. I like how you can put extra stuff on the roof because cargo space is limited to 150 liters with all three rows occupied. Its bold and
puffy shoulders also look good, especially from the side view mirror, as it leads to the shapely rear fender. Honda launched the sixth generation last
year, and while its squarish body and larger grille look good, this test unit I have can still hold its own against its successor.
The simple keyfob is a smart key as well and has a button to open the power tailgate. Having it on me unlocked the vehicle when I grabbed the door handle. To lock, touch the three lines on the handle.
Premium is the word that came to mind as I entered the cabin with its all-black interior, leather upholstery, and faux wood accents. The simple layout is not only easy
on the eyes, but it also reduces distraction and offers a clearer view. Adding to the upscale feel is the Push-Start button, seven-inch touch display, eight-speaker system, dual-zone climate control, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
Honda future-proofed this model. It has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and multiple built-in USB ports smartly positioned, so you don’t
have wires dangling from the head unit like some other models. My favorite features include the panoramic sunroof, the push-button gear selector, and the
air vents in the second and third rows that ensure equal cooling across all rows.
While the second-row seats recline and slide to free up some legroom at the back, the third row is only good for two — three if they are all little kids — but it
will still be a cramped fit at best. Folding the second and third rows allows 967 liters worth of luggage.
Diesel has been Honda’s fuel of choice for the CR-V. Of the four variants in the market, only one needs gasoline. This powertrain is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder i-DTEC
turbo engine making a modest 120 PS. Acceleration from a full stop is not cat-quick despite its 300 Nm of torque, but all that on-demand pull is palpable,
with very little throttle pressure needed during overtaking in the city or highway. Fuel consumption is pretty good at 11.3 km/l in mixed driving conditions.
Handling is superb. That is partly due to the all-wheel drive system getting power from its nine-speed automatic transmission. I took it up to Baguio, and it was sure-footed through Kennon Road, which gave me the confidence to handle the twisties up the mountain. Body roll is minimal thanks to its low profile and Honda’s Agile
Handling Assist. The transmission was smooth and held the gear on steep descents to assist with engine braking.
The 18-inch wheels let a little bit of asphalt harshness in but other than that, noise and vibration levels are extremely low, so it goes without saying that ride comfort
is very high.
One of its best features is Honda Sensing, particularly the Adaptive Cruise Control, which comes in handy on the NLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX. Other safety systems include Low-Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking, Lane Keep Assist, Road Departure Mitigation, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Departure Warning. I
also appreciate how the alerts are discreet. There are no startling noises, beeps, or lights going off.
The CR-V SX Diesel 9AT AWD is small for a seven-seater and pricey too. But it makes up for it with one of the best cabins in the segment, premium appointments,
contemporary amenities, cutting-edge safety tech, and an awesome ride.