[New CR-V] to the minivan graduation group! Flagship SUV with both driving and spaciousness is finally launched in Japan

Text and Photos ● Unit Compass

On the 30th anniversary of its birth, the CR-V has returned to Japan! The new CR-V is Honda's semi-flagship after the Accord and the pinnacle of the SUV lineup, making a triumphant return with overwhelming capabilities. This time, based on the published information, we will introduce the appeal and points of interest of the new model.

The best-selling Honda car in the world

The first CR-V was born in 1995. As the second creative mover, we pioneered the genre of urban SUVs. It continues to evolve while maintaining its position as a convenient and easy-to-use car for users, and has sold more than 15 million units worldwide by the sixth generation. Today, it has grown into the car with the highest sales volume for Honda.

The sixth generation of the global debut was in 2022, and the e:FCEV, a hydrogen vehicle, was introduced to the Japan market in 2024. Honda's SUV lineup already includes "WR-V", "VEZEL", and "ZR-V", but considering Honda's overall lineup, it is also true that the high-end models were a little lonely. The new CR-V is also expected to be a receptacle for high-end minivan users such as the Odyssey.

Therefore, when introducing the new model for the Japan market, the grand concept was "Impressive CR-V", and it was planned as a high-quality car that could meet expectations as a high-end model next to the Accord.

The design theme is a fusion of "functional beauty" and "sex appeal"

The concept of the exterior design is "BOLD & SOPHISTICATED". It features sporty proportions that emphasize the good skeletal structure.

The horizontal beltline and the long nose silhouette by retracting the A-pillar are truly an "adult SUV". According to Mr. Sato, the person in charge of development, the great thing about this design is that it is not only cool, but also does not waste any livability or luggage space.

The grade development was deliberately narrowed down to "RS". It is a lineup called the "RS" of the FF model and the "RS Black Edition" with a black decoration in 4WD.

Why did you narrow down the input grade to only "RS"? When I asked Mr. Sato why, he replied, "There are base grades in other Asian regions, but I wanted to bring the 'best one' to the Japan market." The new CR-V has a reputation for its good driving performance in countries around the world where it is already sold, but it is decided that the RS with a sportier flavor is suitable for discerning users in Japan.

In addition, new body colors such as "Canyon River Blue Metallic" and "Slate Gray Pearl" are set to create a high-quality look.

Packaging: The size of the minivan graduation group is also convincing

What is noteworthy about the space design is the class-leading luggage capacity and the spaciousness of the rear seats. Even when riding 5 people, 586L is secured. This is a large capacity that can swallow 4 pieces of a 9.5-inch golf bag and 3 pieces of a 29-inch suitcase. The floor height is set low, making it easy to load luggage.

What surprised me when I checked the actual car was the habitability of the rear seats. The footweight has been further expanded from the previous model, and a whopping 190mm of slide has been secured. In addition, the backrest has an 8-level reclining mechanism. It will be comfortable in scenes such as long drives, and it will also be comfortable in situations where you want to relax a little while on the move.

Driving: 4WD with the highest driving performance and driving in CR-V history

In this interview, we were not able to test the driving performance, but the development engineers agreed that the driving quality of the new CR-V was good. I am proud that I was able to achieve not only a speedy situation, but also a comfortable ride that can be felt just by running around the city.

The powertrain is a combination of a 2.0L direct-injection Atkinson cycle engine and an electric CVT with two built-in motors, and the accelerator operation and engine rotation are synchronized, giving it an exhilarating and direct acceleration feeling. By adding a lock-up Low mechanism to the CVT, it is said that it was possible to improve fuel efficiency in scenes such as loose acceleration and climbing. In fact, this system was developed to meet the demand for traction in the North American market and other markets, but as a result, it has led to the effective use of the engine in city driving.

The final complete form of the "mecha 4WD"

The commitment to the 4WD system cannot be overlooked. The new CR-V uses a mechanical (real-time AWD) system using a propeller shaft. Don't think, "Is it a mechanical 4WD now?" According to the developer, this is a system that is "close to the finished form of mechanical 4WD". By precisely controlling the distribution of driving force and actively increasing torque to the rear wheels, it not only improves driving performance on rough roads such as snowy roads, but also cornering traction on paved roads. It is controlled as a "bending four-wheel drive".

In addition, this time, the long-awaited "Snow Mode" has also been added. For snow country users, the CR-V's tough running performance is combined with reliable electronic control, and it can be said that it is a golden rod for demons.

Interior and equipment: Blending quality and innovation

The interior has a horizontal, noiseless design for intuitive operation and a wide field of view.
As a unique production of the "RS", the sporty interior color based on black and high-quality materials are extravagant.

Advanced equipment is also not missing.
Equipped with "Google built-in" as a connected function. Google Maps and Google Assistant are integrated as in-car systems, allowing you to use them seamlessly like a smartphone.

In addition, the safe driving assistance system "Honda SENSING 360" is adopted. By widening the front camera and adding corner radar, it provides all-round safety support, such as avoiding head-on accidents at intersections and lane change assistance.

In addition, it is packed with hospitality functions down to the smallest detail, such as the "BOSE Premium Sound System", LED lighting for all seats, and a smart clear wiper function that saves water and provides good visibility.

Genuine accessories that come with two outfits

Genuine options with Honda Access are also available. The "Urban Premium" for the RS emphasizes the sophisticated style with black accents. On the other hand, the "Tough Premium" for the RS Black Edition has a styling that enhances the gear feel of an SUV. In addition, there are plenty of items that tickle the user's heart, such as the popular black emblem and pattern projector.

Summary: No blind spots in all directions. This is the "ultimate all-rounder"

The new CR-V eliminates all the excuses of "because it's an SUV" and is a model that balances driving, livability, and usability at a high level. It will be released in Japan in February 2026. Pre-orders will start in December 2025. If you look at the actual car, you will surely understand the meaning of the grand concept of "impression".