Honda CR-V e:HEV hybrid launched in SA priced at R949,900

Honda South Africa has replaced the CR-V 1.5T models with the new CR-V e:HEV hybrid.

Designed to maximise fuel efficiency, this hybrid flagship combines a 106kW/189Nm 2.0l four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with traction and generator electric motors. Powered by a lithium-ion battery pack, the electric motors add a further 135kW and 335Nm of torque to the mix.

Paired with an e:CVT transmission, the system distributes power to all four wheels via Honda’s Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System. It can send torque to the rear axle before front-wheel slip occurs. Honda says this improves traction on wet tar, gravel roads and steep driveways.

Three drive modes are available, with the system automatically switching between them depending on the SUV’s speed, load and battery charge:

• EV mode uses the traction motor alone, making it suitable for pulling away from a standstill or driving in town.
• Hybrid mode uses the petrol engine to power the generator motor, which supplies electricity to the traction motor, with additional power drawn from the battery for acceleration.
• Engine mode uses the combustion engine as the main source of propulsion, with the traction motor providing additional power during overtaking.

Honda claims combined-cycle fuel consumption of 5.4l/100km, with CO₂ emissions of 128g/km.

The CR-V e:HEV rides on black 19″ alloy wheels and features a panoramic glass sunroof, LED headlamps, dual exhaust outlets and RS-specification styling, including gloss-black bumper accents.

The radiator grille, roof rails and tailgate spoiler also have a gloss-black finish. Blazing Red Pearl is available as a new paint option.

Inside, the cabin features RS-style eco-friendly leather upholstery with red contrast stitching, white ambient lighting and improved noise, vibration and harshness suppression. Equipment includes:

• a 10.2″ digital instrument cluster, 9″ touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility;
• head-up display;
• wireless phone charging; and
• USB-C connectivity.

Active safety features include a LaneWatch camera and Honda Sensing driver-assistance systems, comprising:

• adaptive cruise control;
• lane-keeping assist;
• road departure mitigation; and
• collision mitigation braking.

The new Honda CR-V e:HEV AWD is priced at R949,900, including a five-year/200,000km warranty and a five-year/90,000km service plan. The hybrid system is covered by an additional eight-year/200,000km warranty.

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