The CR-V, a vehicle that I never considered luxurious until now, has undergone a remarkable transformation. The Canyon River Blue Metallic color, available for all trim levels (which is why I see a lot on the road), exudes a regal feel. Its on-road presence, premium cabin materials, and high-tech equipment have all been significantly upgraded. This luxurious evolution, however, comes at a cost. Is it a price worth paying? Let's delve into this.
The previously-top-trim-only Platinum White Pearl body color on this test unit isn't as eye-popping as the hybrid's exclusive Ignite Red Metallic. Fortunately for buyers, it's also a standard hue for all models.
It's easy to tell this is the hybrid CR-V. It has the Blue Halo emblem on the grille and an e:HEV badge at the rear. The RS is a variant whose acronym means Road Sailing, referring to the vehicle's drive, not its new energy powertrain.
The CR-V's overall body shape has been enhanced to exude elegance. Even with the piano black 18-inch alloy wheels, black side mirrors, and other enhancements like the aero bumper and the rear under spoiler, this CR-V radiates class and sophistication more than a sporty look.
Honda uses LEDs on all lights, including the auto-leveling lamps and DRLs on either side of the extra-large honeycomb grille. Other techy bits, like the panoramic sunroof, the power tailgate, and the hands-free lock/unlock system via the smart key, add a touch of modernity and convenience to impress potential buyers.
Like the exterior, the cabin is posh and replete with quality materials like leather with dual red stitching, piano black trim, soft-touch plastics, and a few silver accents. As nice as those are, there are a lot of elements to put together, and there are many ways it could go wrong. Thankfully, it wasn't mixed and mashed hastily.
The cockpit layout is terrific. The dashboard height is low, and the top is flat, making it easy to see over it. Reducing the switches and buttons on the center stack minimizes distractions. The only panel here is the automatic tri-zone climate control system, which features Honda's new honeycomb vent design.
Infotainment comes from its nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth audio streaming. It also has Android Auto, but I wasn't able to test it. Additional creature comforts include a wireless charging pad, USB Type-A and Type-C ports, Bose's 12-speaker system, and bolstered leather seats (the driver's has a memory function).
I was surprised that Honda reverted to the stick gear shifter to replace the push-button system of the CR-V's predecessor. However, the center console has been widened, providing more space for storing loose items.
The leather multi-function steering wheel is intuitive, with knobs in their proper places, so you don't have to rewire your brain to remember which finger or hand controls what. Behind it are paddle shifters, which I believe Honda could do away with, and the vivid 10.2-inch full digital instrument panel.
Since the CR-V RS e:HEV uses the same body as its seven-seater siblings, the VX and V, there is plenty of space — elbow room in front, leg room in the second row, and storage space in the back.
This is a cabin you will be OK spending hours in, even in traffic. It is comfortable, posh, and has all the modern tech trappings of life. The ambient lighting, which is more visible at night, is a pleasant bonus.
Honda puts a premium on its hybrid powertrain, which you're paying for with this trim level. It has a 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine, making a modest 148-PS and 183-Nm of torque. Fortunately, the dual-motor system adds 184-PS and 335-Nm of torque. Don't add the numbers together because the motors boost the engine's performance, so combining them would be misleading. What is impressive is it returned 17.8 km/l after over 540-kilometers of spirited driving.
Even in Eco mode (it also has Sport and Normal modes), acceleration is exhilarating. It rushes forward hastily but with the buttery smoothness of a luxury car rather than a hyper crossover SUV. And even with a ground clearance of 198-mm, it is balanced and stable around corners, like a couch on wheels.
The Active Noise Control feature isn't what I expected it to be — outside noises are still slightly audible, but road imperfections are almost muted in the cabin.
The handling is a bit too light, even with the feedback from the steering wheel. Since the body is heftier, I had to be more cautious on narrow roads and around obstacles on the street.
Now for the P2.590 million tag price, which (almost) breaches luxury territory. The entire package — design, premium materials, performance, and fuel savings — justifies it. It is a luxurious, elegant, and sophisticated crossover SUV. Plus, it has the driver-assist system called Honda Sensing without losing its sporty driving dynamics.