Previously, if you wanted the e:HEV powertrain in the Honda CR-V, you had to go straight to the range-topping RS at RM 195,900. That was a very good SUV, but it’s also as near as makes no difference, a RM 200k car.

Now, at RM178,900, the new e:HEV E brings the hybrid powertrain to a more accessible price point. It is still not exactly cheap, but it closes the gap somewhat to the Haval H6 HEV, which remains one of the more aggressively priced hybrid SUVs on sale at RM 139,800.

Test them back to back, and what becomes clear quite quickly is that these two cars arrive at the same destination through very different means.

Let’s start with the 2026 Honda CR-V.

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Even in this lower hybrid trim, the CR-V immediately reminds you why it has long been such an easy recommendation in this segment.

The fundamentals are just very well sorted. The driving position remains one of the best in any SUV near this price point. The steering wheel sits naturally in line with your body, the pedal placement feels correct, and the seat itself supports you properly. These are small things that do not always stand out in a showroom, but they make a big difference over time.

Honda also continues to get the ergonomics right. The climate controls are still operated by physical knobs, the interface is simple, and there is very little in the way of overcomplication. It all feels intuitive in the way a family SUV should.

Rear seat space remains one of the CR-V’s biggest strengths. There is still ample room, the bench reclines, and the cabin is wide enough to accommodate three abreast more comfortably than most rivals. The boot is also among the biggest in class.

On the move, the e:HEV powertrain remains one of the CR-V’s highlights. It still feels exceptionally natural in the way it blends electric and petrol propulsion. The transitions are smooth, the response is intuitive, and the overall impression remains positive.

The chassis is similarly well judged. There is a slight firm edge to the suspension, but it is there for a reason. Body control is excellent, the car feels composed and settled, and the steering is weighted in a way that gives confidence without unnecessary heaviness. It is a very cohesive setup.

This new e:HEV E variant also makes a lot of sense on paper. You lose the Bose sound system, 360-degree camera, head-up display, ambient lighting and a few other extras from the RS, but you can live without those, right?

In this 2026 update, it gets blind spot monitoring instead of Honda’s old LaneWatch system. Personally, I much prefer this because LaneWatch only covered the passenger side and overrode the navigation display when activated. Blind spot monitoring is more intuitive and less disruptive.

The CR-V is not flawless, of course. Material quality is not as impressive as the overall polish might suggest. Some panels, especially around the doors, have more flex than expected, and some of the harder plastics feel a bit underwhelming at this price. The reverse camera resolution also remains poor. Still, the overall impression is of a car that has been thought through very carefully.

Now, the Haval H6 impresses in different ways.

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For a start, it arguably looks better than the CR-V, depending on taste. It certainly has presence, and visually it feels a little more modern and more immediately striking.

Inside, it is nearly as spacious, with a boot rated at 560 litres, so there is not much in it compared to the Honda in outright cargo capacity. Equipment levels are also generous, and notably, the H6 gets heated and ventilated front seats, which is a genuine plus point in daily use.

The hybrid powertrain is perhaps the most impressive part of the H6. It feels properly quick, to the point that off-the-line response is closer to an EV than a conventional hybrid SUV. It has a real sense of urgency and feels stronger than the CR-V when you are simply looking at acceleration.

It also does a good job of keeping the petrol engine in the background most of the time. Noise levels are generally low, though there are occasions when the engine cuts in and you can feel some vibration through the pedals. It is not constant, but it does happen.

The H6 also deserves credit for its ADAS calibration. In fact, both cars do. Neither system felt intrusive during the drive, which is exactly how these systems should behave.

Where the H6 starts to lose some ground is in the finer details of how it is put together from a user and driver standpoint.

You may also be interested in: Revisiting the Haval H6: This is why it makes so much sense as a daily car

The driving position is not as natural as the CR-V’s. The front seats lack thigh support because the base angle cannot be adjusted properly, and the overall seating position never quite feels as spot on. Visibility is also less reassuring, with the longer-feeling bonnet making the car a bit trickier to place in tighter spaces, while the rear windscreen is smaller than ideal.

The rear seats are spacious enough, but the shorter seat base and rather upright backrest mean they are less accommodating over longer distances. This is the kind of thing that may not matter during a short test drive but will matter more on an actual road trip.

The user interface is another area that may divide opinion. Personally, I am not particularly fond of the H6’s UI. It looks modern enough, but day-to-day usability is not its strongest suit.

The fact that you need to exit Android Auto to adjust fan speed or temperature is exactly the kind of extra step that should not be necessary in a family SUV. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also absent, although that can be worked around with aftermarket solutions if needed.

Then there is the way it feels on the move. The H6 rides decently in the sense that it does not crash harshly over potholes or sharp edges, and some will find that comfortable. But there is also a certain busy, slightly unresolved quality to the damping that makes the body feel like it never quite settles quickly enough. Compared to the CR-V, which feels much more tied down and resolved in its responses, the H6’s suspension has more of that slightly wooden, constantly moving character.

Steering and brake calibration are also not as polished. The steering is overly light and vague, while the brakes can feel jumpy until you acclimatise to them. They are learnable, but they are not as intuitive.

Verdict: Honda CR-V vs Haval H6

The CR-V e:HEV E feels more intuitive and more mature in how its various elements come together. The quality of its engineering is not necessarily in headline features, but how it ticks all the right boxes in one cohesive package.

The H6 HEV counters by offering a lot of metal, performance and equipment for the money. It is spacious, quick, generously equipped, and significantly more affordable. It also throws in features like heated and ventilated seats that buyers will genuinely appreciate.

That is why this is not really a case of one making the other irrelevant.

The Honda CR-V justifies its higher price with a more polished overall experience. The Haval H6 gives buyers a lot for the money, even if it is not as resolved in the finer points.

Quick specs

Honda CR-V e:HEV E

Engine: 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four hybrid
Power: 184 PS
Torque: 335 Nm
Transmission: E-CVT
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Price (as tested): RM 178,900

We like: Superb driving position, spacious cabin, intuitive ergonomics, well-resolved ride and handling, blind spot monitor is more intuitive than LaneWatch
We don’t like: Material quality is not as impressive as expected, some panel flex, poor reverse camera resolution, still a sizeable price gap to the H6

Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four hybrid
Power: 243 PS
Torque: 530 Nm
Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
Price (as tested): RM 139,800

We like: Strong value proposition, powerful hybrid powertrain, heated and ventilated front seats, low overall noise levels, generous equipment list
We don’t like: Driving position is not as natural as the CR-V, front seats lack thigh support, rear seats do not recline, ride feels brittle, steering and brake calibration need work

You might also like: HAVAL H6 HEV Enters ASEAN Records with Fuel Endurance Achievement – 1,242km on a Single Tank

Honda Malaysia meraikan ulang tahun ke-25 jenama itu di negara ini dengan memperkenalkan CR-V Edisi Dual-Tone khas. Hanya 300 unit SUV edisi terhad ini akan ditawarkan di seluruh Malaysia sebagai tanda penghargaan kepada para pelanggan yang telah menyokong Honda sepanjang dua dekad setengah.

Sebagai model paling lama dalam barisan Honda Malaysia, CR-V memainkan peranan penting dalam membina kejayaan jenama itu di pasaran tempatan. Edisi khas ini menjadi model CR-V pertama dengan rekaan dwi-tona, menampilkan bumbung hitam, tiang sisi dan cermin gelap yang menyerlahkan gaya sporty serta penampilan lebih premium.

Model ini ditawarkan untuk dua varian — E dan V, masing-masing dikuasakan oleh enjin 1.5L VTEC Turbo yang terkenal dengan keseimbangan antara kuasa dan kecekapan bahan api. Pelanggan boleh memilih antara dua warna menarik iaitu Ignite Red Metallic dan Platinum White Pearl, sementara harga kekal sama seperti varian asal — RM169,900 bagi varian E dan RM181,900 bagi varian V.

Pelancaran ini merupakan sebahagian daripada Kempen Ulang Tahun ke-25 Honda Malaysia “Because of You”, yang menzahirkan penghargaan kepada rakyat Malaysia atas kepercayaan dan sokongan berterusan terhadap jenama Honda.

Sejak mula dipasang secara tempatan di kilang Melaka pada tahun 2003, CR-V telah menjadi tunjang utama kejayaan Honda Malaysia dengan lebih 149,000 unit terjual di seluruh negara. Ia dikenali sebagai SUV yang versatil, selesa dan dipercayai oleh pelbagai lapisan pengguna — daripada keluarga hingga profesional muda.

Sepanjang enam generasi, CR-V terus menunjukkan kemajuan dalam teknologi dan reka bentuk. Pada tahun 2017, CR-V Generasi ke-5 mencatat sejarah sebagai SUV pertama di Asia Tenggara yang menampilkan sistem keselamatan Honda SENSING serta enjin 1.5L VTEC Turbo.

Kini, CR-V Generasi ke-6, yang dilancarkan pada tahun 2023, meneruskan legasi itu dengan pengenalan varian hibrid e:HEV RS, menjadikannya SUV hibrid pertama pemasangan tempatan (CKD) oleh Honda Malaysia.

Setakat tahun 2024, CR-V generasi terkini menguasai segmen SUV bersaiz sederhana di Malaysia dengan lebih 11,300 unit terjual dan menguasai 36% bahagian pasaran, membuktikan daya tarikannya yang berterusan di kalangan pembeli tempatan.

CR-V Edisi Dwi-Tona bukan sekadar sebuah model istimewa — ia adalah simbol perjalanan 25 tahun Honda Malaysia yang dipenuhi inovasi, kualiti dan kepercayaan pelanggan. Reka bentuk bergaya dengan sentuhan moden menjadikan SUV ini bukan sahaja praktikal, tetapi juga berkarakter.

Melalui edisi khas ini, Honda Malaysia menegaskan komitmennya untuk terus mencipta kenderaan yang menggabungkan gaya hidup moden dengan teknologi pintar, sambil mengekalkan nilai teras jenama — “The Power of Dreams”.

Sejak bertahun-tahun lamanya, Honda CR-V telah berjaya mengukuhkan kedudukannya sebagai pilihan utama dalam kalangan pembeli kereta di Malaysia yang menginginkan sebuah SUV yang luas dan praktikal. Sejak ia mula diperkenalkan pada tahun 1997, model ini telah memasuki hampir setengah juta kediaman di seluruh negara — mungkin lebih.

Tidak sukar untuk memahami mengapa CR-V begitu popular. Ia menawarkan gabungan keselesaan, kepraktisan dan ciri-ciri moden yang memikat. Sepanjang perjalanannya, CR-V telah berdepan dengan saingan yang semakin sengit. Pada awalnya, persaingan datang daripada jenama Jepun lain seperti Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester dan Suzuki Grand Vitara. Kemudian, pengeluar Korea seperti Hyundai Tucson dan Kia Sportage menyertai perlumbaan, diikuti oleh wakil Amerika dengan Ford Escape dan Chevrolet Captiva.

Persaingan terus meningkat apabila Mazda memperkenalkan CX-7, Mitsubishi dengan Outlander dan ASX, serta kemasukan jenama Eropah seperti Volkswagen Tiguan dan Peugeot 3008. Kini, dengan kehadiran model-model seperti Proton X70 serta SUV dari China seperti Chery, Tiggo 7 dan Haval H6, pasaran SUV menjadi semakin padat. Dalam landskap yang penuh dengan pilihan ini, Honda CR-V terus membuktikan nilainya.

Jika anda sedang mempertimbangkan SUV, berikut adalah lima sebab utama mengapa Honda CR-V RS e:HEV patut berada dalam senarai teratas anda:

1. Kecekapan Penggunaan Bahan Api
Honda CR-V RS e:HEV benar-benar menonjol dari segi kecekapan. Honda Malaysia mendakwa bahawa varian hibrid ini mampu mencatat penggunaan bahan api sekitar 20km bagi setiap liter. Ujian awal tahun ini mengesahkan kecekapan itu dengan pencapaian 19.8km seliter — angka yang sangat hampir dan cukup mengagumkan. Dalam era di mana kos sara hidup semakin meningkat, kecekapan seperti ini tentunya melegakan pemilik.

2. Sistem Audio BOSE yang Premium
Sistem audio berkualiti adalah sesuatu yang tidak seharusnya dipandang ringan. Walaupun ramai pembuat kereta kini menawarkan sambungan seperti Apple CarPlay dan Android Auto, tidak banyak yang memberikan sistem audio yang benar-benar memuaskan. CR-V RS e:HEV hadir dengan sistem bunyi BOSE yang sebelum ini hanya ditawarkan dalam kereta mewah. Kualiti bunyinya memukau dan jelas — satu pujian buat Honda kerana menawarkan ciri sebegini dalam model ini.

3. Penghalusan Kabin
Satu lagi kelebihan CR-V ialah ketenangan kabinnya. Tiada bunyi angin atau tayar yang mengganggu — satu aspek penting yang sering diabaikan pembeli sehingga mereka mengalaminya sendiri. CR-V menggunakan dua teknologi utama: resonator roda dan pembatalan bunyi aktif (Active Noise Cancellation). Resonator menyerap getaran dan bunyi, manakala sistem pembatalan bunyi aktif mengeluarkan frekuensi bertentangan bagi meneutralkan bunyi luar. Hasilnya? Satu pengalaman pemanduan yang senyap dan selesa.

4. Dinamik Pemanduan yang Unggul
Salah satu kekuatan utama Honda ialah keupayaan pemanduan. Walaupun terdapat banyak pesaing baharu dalam pasaran SUV, tidak ramai yang mampu menandingi keseronokan dan ketepatan pemanduan yang ditawarkan oleh Honda. Stereng CR-V responsif dan tepat — tanpa sebarang ‘titik mati’ yang menjengkelkan. Ia memberikan keyakinan dan keselesaan kepada pemandu. Sesi pandu uji di bilik pameran Honda akan cukup untuk membuktikan keistimewaan ini.

5. Ciri Keselamatan Honda Sensing
Honda Sensing ialah pakej keselamatan pintar yang komprehensif. Ia merangkumi sistem seperti Amaran Perlanggaran Hadapan, Sistem Brek Pencegahan Perlanggaran, Amaran Keluar Lorong, dan Kawalan Pelayaran Adaptif dengan keupayaan berhenti dan mula secara automatik. Varian RS e:HEV turut dilengkapi dengan Adaptive Driving Beam — teknologi pintar yang melaras pancaran lampu tinggi secara automatik bagi mengelakkan menyilaukan pemandu lain. Ini membuktikan bahawa keselamatan benar-benar menjadi keutamaan dalam CR-V.

Masa Terbaik untuk Membeli CR-V
Dengan semua kelebihan ini, Honda CR-V kekal sebagai pilihan kukuh dalam pasaran SUV. Dan sekarang, Honda Malaysia memperhebatkan lagi penawarannya dengan kempen Bonanza Pertengahan Tahun yang memberikan ganjaran bernilai sehingga RM13,000* — termasuk rebat tunai RM10,000* dan baucar servis RM3,000*. Tawaran ini sah sehingga 31 Julai 2025.

Jika anda sedang mencari SUV yang besar, canggih dan efisien di bawah RM200,000, maka Honda CR-V RS e:HEV adalah jawapan yang tepat.

*Tertakluk kepada terma dan syarat.

Honda Malaysia mencatat kejayaan membanggakan dengan penjualan lebih 11,300 unit Honda CR-V Generasi Ke-6, sekali gus mengukuhkan kedudukannya sebagai SUV Mid-Size No.1 pada tahun 2024. Dengan pegangan pasaran sebanyak 36% dalam segmennya, CR-V terus menjadi pilihan utama rakyat Malaysia.

Pengarah Urusan dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Honda Malaysia, Encik Hironobu Yoshimura, melahirkan rasa gembira atas sambutan luar biasa terhadap CR-V. “Sejak dilancarkan pada Disember 2023, model ini telah menerima permintaan pasaran yang tinggi, menyumbang kepada pertumbuhan segmen sebanyak 40% tahun ke tahun. CR-V kini merupakan model ketiga terlaris dalam barisan Honda Malaysia untuk 2024,” katanya.

Peningkatan Permintaan untuk Varian Hibrid dan Petrol

Kejayaan ini turut dipacu oleh varian hibrid 2.0L e:HEV RS, yang menyumbang 20% daripada jumlah jualan CR-V. Dalam segmen SUV Hibrid Mid-Size, e:HEV RS menguasai 87% pasaran, mencerminkan kepercayaan tinggi pengguna terhadap teknologi hibrid Honda.

Sementara itu, varian petrol kekal popular, dengan varian E menjadi pilihan utama pelanggan, menyumbang 40% daripada jumlah jualan. Encik Yoshimura turut menzahirkan penghargaan kepada pelanggan atas sokongan yang berterusan.

Prestasi, Teknologi dan Reka Bentuk yang Menawan

CR-V Generasi Ke-6 hadir dengan dua pilihan rangkaian kuasa:

• 2.0L e:HEV Hybrid – Menghasilkan 184PS dan 335Nm tork, menawarkan prestasi cemerlang dengan kecekapan bahan api yang tinggi.

• 1.5L VTEC Turbo – Menjana 193PS dan 243Nm tork, dengan varian V dilengkapi AWD Masa Nyata untuk kestabilan lebih baik di pelbagai kondisi jalan raya.

Reka bentuk luaran CR-V menampilkan gaya sporty dengan gril hadapan mesh unik, lampu depan dan belakang LED penuh, serta isyarat pusingan berjujukan LED. Varian e:HEV RS dilengkapi Lampu Menjuru Aktif dan Gril Pengatup Aktif untuk aerodinamik lebih baik.

Di bahagian dalaman, CR-V menawarkan kabin premium dan luas. Varian e:HEV RS menampilkan Sistem Bunyi Premium Bose dengan 12 pembesar suara, meter TFT 10.2 inci, dan pencahayaan ambien dalaman. Kapasiti but 589 liter boleh diperluaskan kepada 1,072 liter dengan tempat duduk belakang dilipat rata, manakala Pintu Belakang Kuasa Bebas Tangan dengan Walkaway Close meningkatkan kemudahan pengguna.

Teknologi Keselamatan dan Ketersambungan Termaju

Honda Malaysia menekankan aspek keselamatan dengan melengkapkan CR-V dengan ciri-ciri berikut:

• Honda CONNECT – Menawarkan pemantauan jauh dan keselamatan kenderaan.

• Honda SENSING – Teknologi bantuan pemandu terkini.
• Adaptive Driving Beam & Sistem Kamera 360 Darjah – Meningkatkan keterlihatan dan keselamatan, tersedia dalam varian e:HEV RS.

Dengan gabungan teknologi inovatif, prestasi luar biasa dan keselesaan premium, Honda CR-V terus mendominasi pasaran SUV Mid-Size di Malaysia. Kejayaan ini mengukuhkan lagi komitmen Honda terhadap kecemerlangan dan kepuasan pelanggan.

Honda Malaysia has achieved a significant milestone with the sale of over 11,300 units of its flagship model, the 6th Generation CR-V, securing its position as the No.1 Mid-Size SUV in 2024 with a commanding 36% market share in the segment.

Honda Malaysia’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hironobu Yoshimura, expressed his delight at the CR-V’s outstanding market performance. “Since its launch in December 2023, the CR-V has received strong market acceptance, further solidifying its dominant position. This growing demand is reflected in its remarkable 40% year-on-year growth within its segment. Notably, the CR-V ranked as the third best-selling model in Honda Malaysia’s lineup for 2024.”

Impressive Sales Contribution from Hybrid and Petrol Variants

The introduction of the 2.0L e:HEV RS hybrid variant has significantly boosted demand, contributing to 20% of overall CR-V sales. Within the Mid-Size SUV hybrid segment, the e:HEV RS commands an 87% market share, reflecting strong consumer confidence in Honda’s advanced hybrid technology.

The petrol variants have also performed exceptionally well, with the E variant emerging as the top choice, accounting for 40% of total CR-V sales. “These achievements would not have been possible without the unwavering support and trust of our valued customers. These milestones strengthen our determination to exceed expectations and serve our customers even better,” Mr. Yoshimura added.

Performance, Technology, and Design Excellence

Renowned for its smooth handling and quiet cabin, the 6th Generation CR-V is available in two powertrain options:

• 2.0L e:HEV Hybrid – Producing 184PS and 335Nm of torque, this powertrain delivers high-performance hybrid driving with exceptional fuel efficiency.
• 1.5L VTEC Turbo – Generating 193PS and 243Nm of torque, this variant provides an exhilarating driving experience, with the V variant featuring Real Time AWD for enhanced stability across different road conditions.

The CR-V’s sporty and stylish exterior makes a bold statement, featuring a unique mesh-pattern front grille, full LED headlights and tail-lights, and front LED sequential turn signals. The range-topping e:HEV RS variant further enhances its appeal with Active Cornering Lights and an Active Shutter Grille.

Inside, the premium and spacious cabin is designed for both comfort and elegance. The e:HEV RS variant stands out with a Bose Premium Sound System with 12 speakers, a 10.2-inch TFT meter, and Interior Ambient Lighting (available from the V variant onwards).

Practicality is another strong suit of the CR-V, offering a versatile boot capacity of 589 litres, which expands to 1,072 litres with the rear seats folded flat. The Hands-Free Power Tailgate with Walkaway Close adds further convenience for effortless loading and unloading.

Advanced Safety and Connectivity Features

Honda Malaysia continues to prioritise safety by equipping the CR-V with a suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Honda CONNECT – Providing remote vehicle monitoring and security features.
• Honda SENSING – Upgraded with enhanced driver assistance technologies.
• Adaptive Driving Beam & 360-degree camera system – Available in the e:HEV variants, further improving visibility and safety.

With its cutting-edge technology, robust performance, and premium comfort, the Honda CR-V remains Malaysia’s top choice in the Mid-Size SUV segment, reaffirming Honda’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

This sixth-generation Honda CR-V brings a refined design, advanced features, and the reliability Honda is renowned for. Plenty has been said about the CR-V already but we recently got a chance to get reacquainted with it, so let’s take look once again at why it continues to be a top contender for families.

Spaciousness and Practicality

One of the key selling points of the Honda CR-V is its spacious interior. Compared to the previous generation CR-V, this one is 10mm wider, 80mm longer and has a 40mm longer wheelbase – measuring 4,691mm in length, 1,866mm in width, and a wheelbase of 2,700mm – the CR-V offers an abundance of cabin space. This is particularly beneficial for Malaysian families who often take extended road trips or need room for larger families.

While the CR-V isn’t a seven-seater (not in Malaysia at least), its clever interior layout allows for comfortable seating for up to six passengers (including children), thanks to its wide rear bench. The rear ISOFIX anchors ensure easy and secure installation of child seats, catering to families with younger children.

The boot is another highlight, offering an impressive 589 litres of cargo space. Whether it’s luggage for a weekend getaway, a stroller, or even groceries for a week, the CR-V has you covered. The hands-free power tailgate with a walk-away close function adds a touch of convenience, making it effortless to load and unload cargo even when your hands are full.

Comfort for Long Drives

A family SUV must prioritise comfort, and the Honda CR-V excels in this area. Honda’s body-stabilising seats ensure excellent support, particularly during long journeys. The seats are well-cushioned and ergonomically designed to reduce fatigue for both the driver and passengers. Additionally, the driver’s seat position memory function allows multiple drivers to easily revert to their preferred settings.

Noise insulation is another area where the CR-V shines. While the e:HEV RS variant with wheel resonators offers superior NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) performance, the non-hybrid models still provide a quiet and serene cabin environment. This allows families to enjoy conversations or music without interruptions from external noise.

Family-Centric Technology

The CR-V’s infotainment system is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Its nine-inch advanced display audio touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect smartphones for navigation, calls, or music streaming. The eight-speaker sound system delivers crisp audio quality, ensuring every road trip is accompanied by great entertainment.

For the driver, the seven-inch TFT instrument display provides essential information at a glance. It is customisable to show details like audio info, fuel range, or all-wheel-drive (AWD) power distribution. Even for those less tech-savvy, the system’s intuitive design makes it easy to navigate.

Safety is a priority in the CR-V, with features like autonomous emergency braking, vehicle stability assist, and eight airbags covering the front, sides, side curtains, and knees. 

Additionally, the Driver Attention Monitor alerts drivers when signs of fatigue are detected, promoting safer driving. Adaptive cruise control and low-speed follow functions further enhance convenience and reduce driver fatigue during extended journeys.

Another feature that I really like about the CR-V is the built-in tyre pressure monitoring system. The pressure was low when I collected the car and it kept informing me which I find is really good because I have seen cases of tyres bursting due to negligence of proper tyre care. All you have to do is pump air into the tyres and calibrate the system via the infotainment screen. 

Performance That Delivers

The Honda CR-V’s 1.5-litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine delivers 193PS and 243Nm of torque. Mated to a CVT gearbox, this setup offers smooth acceleration and reliable performance, whether on city roads or highways. With a 0-100km/h time of 10.4 seconds and a top speed of 200km/h, the CR-V balances power and efficiency effortlessly.

The all-wheel-drive (AWD) system enhances the SUV’s capability on various terrains, making it suitable for occasional off-road adventures. The inclusion of a multi-view 360-degree camera also makes navigating tight urban spaces a breeze.

Small Touches That Matter

Honda is known for its attention to detail, and the CR-V is no exception. Thoughtful features like the walk-away auto-lock, which secures the vehicle automatically as you leave, and the inclusion of multiple USB ports for charging devices, show Honda’s understanding of modern family needs.

The addition of a wireless charging pad is a welcome feature, though it could benefit from faster charging speeds. Families who prefer a clutter-free cabin may find the slower charging speeds slightly inconvenient, as relying on USB cables adds to cabin messiness.

Areas for Improvement

While the CR-V boasts numerous strengths, improvements could be made in some areas. For instance, the absence of a “teh-tarik” hook might inconvenience some users. The LaneWatch system, which activates when the left indicator is used, overrides the infotainment display, temporarily obscuring navigation information. This can be frustrating for drivers relying on GPS guidance but can be turned off, but then again, what is the point of LaneWatch if you are just going to turn it off? A Blind Spot Monitoring system would be a more effective and user-friendly solution.

Another area for improvement is the wireless charging pad, which is slow to charge devices. Although USB ports and a 12V outlet are available as alternatives, they may result in a cluttered cabin with tangled cables. Addressing these issues would further enhance the CR-V’s appeal and functionality.

Value for Money

Priced at RM181,900 for the 1.5 V AWD variant, the CR-V represents excellent value for its segment. Its comprehensive suite of features, spacious interior, and reliable performance make it a worthy investment for families seeking an all-rounder SUV. Compared to rivals, the CR-V’s blend of practicality, technology, and comfort offers a compelling package that’s hard to beat.

The Honda CR-V’s latest iteration builds on its legacy of being a reliable and versatile family SUV. With its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and thoughtful touches, it remains a top contender in the Malaysian market.

Though it has a few minor drawbacks, the CR-V’s strengths far outweigh them, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a dependable, feature-rich vehicle. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a road trip, the Honda CR-V promises a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience for everyone on board.

For families in Malaysia, the Honda CR-V is not just a car—it’s a trusted companion ready to meet the demands of modern life with style and grace.

Specifications:

Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine

Power: 193PS @ 6000rpm

Torque: 243Nm from 1,700 to 5,000rpm

0-100km/h: 10.4 seconds

Top speed: 200km/h

Price (as tested): RM181,900

We like: Comfort, space and practicality.

We don’t like: Slow wireless charging and no “teh-tarik” hook

This high demand has also resulted in some heated competition for sales and this has pushed manufacturers to outdo each other.  

The Proton X70 for instance shook up the market when it was introduced to the point that some of its competitors were deemed obsolete. It took some years for the competition to respond, but they responded with some formidable firepower. 

Take the new Honda CR-V for instance, it is such a radical change from the previous models that the competition has once again been left in awe. It may not have had the same impact on the market as the X70 did, but for buyers, there is almost no point in considering anything else if budget is no concern. 

To back track a little, the first-generation CR-V was introduced in 1995 and was an immediate success. The CR-V soon became a staple of the middle class and was the go-to machine for those who wanted something safe, convenient and had enough space for the family.

If you have been following these pages, you would know that we are fans of the CR-V. There is very little not to like about it and for everything that is flawed, the CR-V makes up for it in different ways. 

We have done multiple tests with the new CR-V in Thailand and Malaysia and have spoken about the visuals and performance. Now, we recently got to test its practicality as we got the chance to take one home for a couple of days to spend time with the family. 

This sixth-generation C-segment SUV measures 4,691mm long, 1,866mm wide, and 1,681mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,700mm which makes it bigger than its predecessor. This translates into a more spacious cabin room which is good news for people of this writer’s width and height and for those who have bigger families.

Well, it’s not a seven-seater but we did try to squeeze as many people into it as possible and found that four regular-sized people can sit at the back comfortably which brings the total number of people in the SUV to six. If you have kids, the CR-V comes with rear ISOFIX child seat anchors which is a necessity. 

Now, if you have six people in the car for a road trip, you will have around six to eight luggage or bags. Does the CR-V have enough boot space for this? It has 589 litres of boot space which is more than enough to stuff the bags and as we tested just for the sake of it, a person of my size can fit in there too.

Besides that, the boot has a hands-free powered tailgate with a walk-away close function which is helpful when unloading the luggage. 

With it being this bulky, getting through tight and narrow roads is a bit of a challenge but not impossible. This variant has a multi-view 360-degree camera that assists you when it comes to these situations. 

So that’s size, but what about comfort during long drives? Let’s just say everyone, except the driver (obviously) was fast asleep comfortably. The road noise is not as quiet as the e:HEV RS variant that comes with wheel resonators but it is not at all annoying or that noticeable. We asked Honda Malaysia why the resonators were not fitted into the lower variants and Honda stated that the resonators were designed specifically for the hybrid variant for improved noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance. 

As always, Honda takes the small things into consideration and you see this in the CR-V which features body-stabilising seats for front passengers. This is very helpful to the driver when it comes to long drives as the seats are quite supportive, much better in fact than the previous model. 

Also included is the seat position memory function which this writer found very helpful because I did not have to keep adjusting the seats to my liking whenever someone else drove the car.

Anyhow, if your family is as fun as mine, they will be dancing and singing along to music that can be played via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto on the nine-inch advanced display audio touchscreen head unit and sound is channelled through the respectable eight-speaker sound system. You don’t get Bose here as that is only available in the top of the line model.

The touchscreen infotainment system is rather easy to use compared to the other more technical and complicated ones out there. So don’t worry if you’re not tech-savvy, it will only take you a few minutes to mess around and figure out the functions.

For the driver, the CR-V comes with a seven-inch TFT instrument display and it is customisable. There are multiple views that you can set it to, such as audio info, range and fuel, and AWD power distribution. You can also adjust a few settings through it such as the cruise control settings and other safety-related features.

Another nifty feature is the tyre pressure monitoring system which comes in handy when going for long drives. Of course, when one is travelling long distance, tiredness will naturally set in, and that’s why the CR-V comes equipped with a Driver Attention Monitor which tells you to pay attention to the road if you’re feeling tired. Speaking of feeling tired, we tried out the low-speed follow and adaptive cruise control when our legs felt tired and cramped up. It does the job and is as responsive as it is supposed to be, managing the braking and acceleration seamlessly.

In case of an emergency, the CR-V has autonomous emergency braking, vehicle stability assist and eight airbags which are for the front, side, side curtain and knee.

However, the CR-V does have some things we wish were better. For starters, there is no “teh-tarik” hook available so you will have to purchase one on your own and second is one this writer has always been annoyed with from the start, which is the Lane Watch system. 

As mentioned in an earlier review, when you turn on the left indicator, the LaneWatch system just overrides the entire infotainment system which means, you won’t be able to see your GPS screen until you turn off the indicator or switch back to navigation which means you will have to take your eyes off the road for a second. And this can be particularly annoying when you need to watch out for where to turn next. 

Blind Spot Monitoring system is a necessity these days, and Honda Malaysia should be addressing this.

The final flaw is the slow wireless charging pad that takes hours to charge the phone. Yes, there are USB ports and a 12V 180W Max outlet options but that would mean more cables and a messier look. 

To conclude, for RM181,900, we would say that yes, this is an all-rounder family SUV and if we were in the market for a reliable, comfortable SUV, this would be it. 

Specifications:

1.5 V AWD:

Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine

Power: 193PS @ 6000rpm

Torque: 243Nm from 1,700 to 5,000rpm

Gearbox: CVT

0-100km/h: 10.4 seconds

Top speed: 200km/h

Price: RM181,900

We like: Comfort, space and practicality.

We don’t like: LaneWatch, its slow wireless charging and no “teh-tarik” hook

Berdasarkan pencapaiannya pada 2023, di mana ia mengekalkan tempat teratas dalam Segmen Kenderaan Penumpang Bukan Nasional untuk tahun kesepuluh dan mencapai sasaran jualannya sebanyak 80,000 unit, Honda Malaysia kekal fokus pada kejayaan.

Kejayaan pada tahun 2023 didorong oleh pengenalan model baharu seperti WR-V, City, dan CR-V serba baharu, bersama-sama dengan penggunaan teknologi e:HEV, yang meningkatkan jualan hibrid di Malaysia.

Pada 2024, Honda Malaysia merancang untuk menyerlahkan lagi teknologi e:HEVnya untuk menawarkan kenderaan jimat bahan api dengan pengalaman pemanduan yang menarik. Syarikat itu berhasrat untuk meningkatkan momentum jualan melalui pelbagai inisiatif, termasuk memperluaskan kempen jualan kolaboratif dan mempromosikan pelan Insurans automotif komprehensifnya – Honda Insurance Plus (HiP). Selain itu, aplikasi HondaTouch akan terus memberikan kemudahan kepada pelanggan untuk mengakses maklumat perkhidmatan kenderaan.

Bagi memenuhi permintaan yang semakin meningkat dalam pasaran kereta terpakai, Honda Malaysia memperluaskan rangkaian Honda Certified Used Car (HCUC) kepada 32 hab jualan di seluruh negara. Pengembangan ini bertujuan untuk menyediakan pelanggan dengan akses kepada kereta Honda yang telah disahkan dan pra-milik dan memudahkan pertukaran masuk untuk kenderaan sedia ada mereka. Kempen khas akan dijalankan di semua 32 hab jualan untuk meningkatkan kesedaran tentang pengembangan ini menampilkan pelbagai aktiviti dan menawarkan rebat untuk pelanggan.

Dari segi perkhidmatan selepas jualan, Honda Malaysia komited untuk mengubah dan menaik taraf Pusat Servis Honda kepada Pusat Sehenti, memastikan kemudahan maksimum untuk pelanggan.

Dengan hala tuju perniagaan strategiknya untuk 2024, Honda Malaysia mengulangi komitmennya untuk menyampaikan produk berkualiti tinggi, jualan dan perkhidmatan selepas jualan, akhirnya memastikan kepuasan pelanggan. Honda yakin dapat mencapai sasaran jualannya untuk 2024 dan menantikan tahun yang menarik di hadapan.

Building upon the accomplishments of 2023, which included retaining the No.1 position in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment for the tenth consecutive year and meeting the sales target of 80,000 units, Honda Malaysia remains committed to driving success.

The success in 2023 is attributed to the introduction of new models such as the WR-V, City, and all-new CR-V, as well as the implementation of e:HEV technology, which significantly boosted hybrid sales in Malaysia.

In 2024, Honda Malaysia plans to further emphasise its e:HEV technology, offering customers fuel-efficient vehicles with an exhilarating driving experience. The company intends to ramp up sales momentum through various initiatives, including enhancing prospecting activities, expanding collaborative sales campaigns, and promoting the benefits of its comprehensive automotive Insurance plan – Honda Insurance Plus (HiP). Furthermore, the HondaTouch application will continue to provide added convenience for customers to access vehicle service information and updates.

To meet the increasing demand in the used car market, Honda Malaysia is expanding its Honda Certified Used Car (HCUC) network to 32 sales hubs nationwide. This expansion aims to provide customers with access to verified, pre-owned Honda cars and facilitate trade-ins for their existing vehicles. A special campaign will be conducted at all 32 sales hubs to raise awareness of this expansion, featuring various activities and offering rebates for customers.

On the after-sales services front, Honda Malaysia is committed to transforming and upgrading Honda Service Centres into One-Stop Centres, ensuring maximum convenience for customers.

With its strategic business direction for 2024, Honda Malaysia reaffirms its commitment to delivering high-quality products, sales, and after-sales services, ultimately ensuring customer satisfaction. The company is confident in achieving its sales target for 2024 and looks forward to an exciting year ahead.

We drove the sixth-generation CR-V in Thailand back in November 2023 before it was introduced here in Malaysia in December and were immediately blown away by its refinement and features. 

In Malaysia, the CR-V comes in four variants, the S, E, V and the top of the line e:HEV RS. It truly stands out in the C-segment of SUVs, rivalling models like the Volkswagen Tiguan and Mazda CX-5.

During a recent test drive to Penang, we got to drive the V variant and the e:HEV RS variant. The V variant, priced at RM181,900, features a 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol with direct injection that produces 193PS and 243Nm of torque. 

The e:HEV RS on the other hand is priced at RM195,900, and features a 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle inline-four petrol with direct injection that has an output of 148PS and 190Nm of torque. Why is it so low? Well, because it has an electric motor which has an output of 184PS and 335Nm of torque. No, this is not a combined output. The engine simply acts as a generator that charges up the battery which sends power to the front-mounted electric motor. Through a lock-up clutch, the engine can drive the front wheels directly at higher speeds whenever it is more efficient to do so. So, efficiency is what the e:HEV model does best.

Visually, we find the CR-V to be stunning, especially with the new Canyon River Blue Metallic colour option. The hybrid variant even has an active grille shutter, which has been around since 2017 on models like the Odyssey. But the most eye-catching feature are the taillights. Yes, some might say it looks similar to the Volvo and so on, but that’s a debate for another day. On the CR-V however, it’s a nice finish to the ‘elegant’, yet sporty look. 

The standard rims look good, especially the black trim ones that are found on the e:HEV RS. So there is no need to do a rim change. Even if you wanted to, especially for the hybrid variant, you would be making a huge mistake. The hybrid variant comes with wheel resonators which we have actually talked about previously. To simplify it, the resonators assist with noise reduction in the cabin, suppressing annoying road noises, especially on long drives. 

Speaking of long drives, we drove the V variant from Kuala Lumpur to Penang and the hybrid variant from Penang back home. Immediately we noticed what a prominent role those resonators play. The road noise that we were hearing in the cabin from the V spec was very obvious but tolerable and in the hybrid variant, that noise was noticeably suppressed. So, kudos to Honda for taking these into consideration. 

We asked Honda Malaysia why the resonators were not fitted into the lower variants and Honda stated “The resonators were designed specifically for the hybrid variant for higher noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance, which is why the other variants do not have it.”

On the topic of noise in the cabin, the V spec has a screaming CVT gearbox that may annoy you, especially once you reach higher engine speeds. To some, that may not be an issue, or maybe it’s just us.. 

However, there is one feature that the V spec has on the inside that we wish the e:HEV had; the wood trim that can be found on the dashboard and door panels. 

The e:HEV comes with a silver metallic film trim that is not too bad but lacks the elegant finish that the V spec has. Maybe Honda was going with a more sporty feel that is portrayed by the ‘RS’ trim which features red stitching on the inside. 

The term ‘sporty’ is not only applied to the looks of the e:HEV RS, but also to the whole driving experience. There are three driving modes to choose from, which consists of Econ, Normal and Sport mode. It basically enhances the throttle feel and response, and in Sports mode, it is more eager to respond to any demand.

Besides that, the e:HEV RS also does not have a gearbox per say besides for a simpler box for reverse and forward drives. It just does not have ratios in the traditional sense. Honda calls this an e-CVT, perhaps because it would be too complicated to explain to its customers how it works. 

To add to the driving pleasure, Honda also included a neat little feature called Active Sound Control (ASC). What this does is that it provides amplified engine sounds and gear-shifting sounds piped back to the cabin through the audio system. 

According to Honda, this sound was built from scratch and was not based on the sound created by any internal combustion engine. It was built around what many may consider “sporty” and we were not disappointed at all. It sounds believable and does not have an annoying droning sound like some cars do. So we enjoyed hitting the throttle, adhering to speed limits, of course. 

This was a four-hour drive. So was it comfortable? Yes. We took turns driving and, bear in mind that we aren’t exactly the smallest of people, length and width. As mentioned earlier, Honda takes these small things into consideration because the CR-V features body-stabilising seats for front passengers. 

The enhanced structure in the back of the seat increases lumbar and pelvic support to create a body-stabilising effect. This helps to prevent fatigue, particularly in the hip and waist area of occupants on longer journeys.

On the way back to KL, we did not do a driver swap so we only had one driver, which is this writer and I drove all the way without making any stops. Not even to empty my tank or fill up the car’s tank. So yes, I can confirm that it is most definitely comfortable.

We even tested the stability of both variants and how they handled the winding roads of Batu Ferringhi. With the hybrid variant, it was smooth and easy, had enough power to shoot out of corners and felt a little bit more stable. The V spec, however, had a more heavier feel on the steering wheel which did not make the turns feel as smooth. But both variants kept the front passengers in place because of the seats. 

If you’re a family man with kids at the back, this will not matter because you aren’t supposed to be shooting out of corners anyway.

If you do have kids, the CR-V comes with rear ISOFIX child seat anchors and you will not have to worry about baggage space as it comes with 589-litre of boot space.

When it comes to prioritising the safety of both you and your family, the CR-V ensures peace of mind with an array of advanced safety features. These include eight airbags strategically positioned throughout the vehicle, encompassing front, side, side curtain, and knee protection. 

Additionally, the CR-V is equipped with enhanced stability provided by the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, complemented by Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist for optimal braking performance. 

The Auto Brake Hold feature offers convenience in traffic, while Hill Start Assist and Hill Descent Control bolster confidence in challenging terrain. Agile Handle Assist (AHA) contributes to responsive handling, and the Emergency Stop Signal alerts surrounding vehicles in sudden braking situations. 

Seat belt reminders for all seats ensure occupants’ restraint, while Auto Door Lock adds an extra layer of security. Active Noise Control fosters a serene cabin environment, while the Honda Connect telematics system keeps you connected on the go. 

The Honda Sensing driver assistance suite encompasses advanced features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS), and Automatic High Beams (AHD). Furthermore, the Lead Car Departure Notification feature enhances driving awareness, collectively ensuring a safer and more confident driving experience.

As for entertainment, the e:HEV RS features a 10.2-inch TFT fully digital instrument panel and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system which is the first time that Honda Malaysia is offering a premium sound system for its locally-assembled model.

However, there is one thing that we wish Honda would fix. The LaneWatch system. We get that it is helpful to watch out for vehicles nearby, but when you turn on the left indicator, the LaneWatch system just overrides the entire infotainment system which means, you won’t be able to see your GPS screen until you turn off the indicator. And this can be particularly annoying when you need to watch out for where to turn next.

Thankfully, we managed to drive this SUV around Penang without bumping into anything or anyone. We say this because the new body, compared to the previous generation, has an 80mm increase in length, 10mm in width, and a 40mm greater wheelbase. The enormity of the new CRV is hard to describe, but as soon as you see it, you will realise how big it is. 

Despite being bigger and heavier, which we thought might result in higher fuel consumption, we saw the opposite of that. After fuelling up in Penang, we had a total range of 778km in the hybrid variant. Upon arrival in KL, we had a total of 280km left. The V spec does not lack in this department too as we did not have to fuel up on the way to Penang. 

Overall, the CR-V presents itself as the ultimate SUV for the price, excelling in comfort, space, and driving experience. It is no surprise then that Honda Malaysia has already sold over 6000 units in just three months.

Specifications:

1.5 V AWD:

Engine: 1.5 litre DOHC VTEC Turbo engine

Power: 193PS @ 6000rpm

Torque: 243Nm from 1,700 to 5,000rpm

Gearbox: CVT

0-100km/h: 10.4 seconds

Top speed: 200km/h

Price: RM181,900

2.0 e:HEV RS:

 Engine: 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder, DOHC

Power: 184PS @ 5,000rpm

Torque: 335Nm @ 2000rpm

Gearbox: e-CVT

0-100km/h: 9.0 seconds

Top speed: 187km/h

Price: RM195,900

We like: Comfort, space and augmented sound

We don’t like: LaneWatch and its slow wireless charging

Bunyi berterusan yang dikeluarkan oleh tayar semasa memandu di lebuh raya boleh menjadi punca gangguan bagi pemandu. Bunyi ini berpunca daripada resonans yang berlaku di dalam ruang kosong tayar apabila bertembung dengan permukaan tidak rata di jalan. Bagi pengeluar kereta yang bertujuan untuk menawarkan pengalaman memandu yang lancar dan senyap, ini merupakan cabaran yang besar. Untuk mengatasi masalah ini, resonator tayar telah dibangunkan, menggunakan penyerap resonator kosong untuk meredakan resonans yang tidak diingini dan memastikan perjalanan yang tenang dan selesa.

Bunyi yang dihasilkan di dalam tayar menyerupai bunyi resonans tiub apabila memantul bola keranjang atau bola tampar di atas permukaan keras. Dalam kereta, resonans tiub ini, bersama-sama getaran yang menyertainya, bergerak dari roda melalui sistem suspensi dan masuk ke dalam kabin, mencipta bunyi yang tidak diingini dan mengganggu.

Honda memulakan misi untuk mengurangkan masalah bunyi ini. Mengiktiraf bahawa frekuensi resonans tiub berbeza berdasarkan bentuk dan isi padu penutup udara – sama seperti bunyi yang dihasilkan apabila memantul jenis bola yang berbeza – membawa kepada pemahaman bahawa saiz tayar menentukan kekerapan resonans tiub. Dengan pemahaman ini, Honda mencipta kaedah untuk menangani resonans tiub dengan menghasilkan gelombang bunyi yang meneutralkan kekerapan khusus ini.

Untuk mencapai ini, Honda meneroka konsep resonans Helmholtz, di mana bunyi dihasilkan apabila udara ditiup melintasi pembukaan sebuah bekas, seperti botol kosong, dengan bentuk bekas dan isi padu udara menentukan kekerapan yang dihasilkan. Dengan menggunakan prinsip ini, Honda mencipta penyerap resonans yang melingkari roda, mampu mengeluarkan gelombang bunyi yang sepadan dengan kekerapan resonans tiub yang dihasilkan oleh tayar. Reka bentuk inovatif ini berkesan menyekat bunyi yang tidak diingini dan meningkatkan pengalaman memandu secara keseluruhan.

Kini, anda mungkin mempunyai idea bahawa anda boleh membeli resonator tayar secara berasingan dan menggunakannya pada rim baru anda, tetapi semasa sidang media baru-baru ini, Honda menyatakan bahawa ini tidak mungkin dilakukan. Encik Sarly Adle Sarkum, Presiden dan Ketua Pegawai Operasi Honda, menyatakan, “Seseorang telah cuba untuk membeli resonator tayar dan menggunakannya pada varian CR-V yang lebih rendah, dan itu tidak mungkin kerana ia tidak akan sepadan.”

Apabila Piston Malaysia bertanya kepada Encik Yujiro Sugino, Penyelaras Eksekutif, dan Encik Eisuke Sato, Ketua Projek Besar (CR-V), sama ada resonator roda, serta sistem bunyi Bose akan diperkenalkan ke dalam varian yang lebih rendah, mereka menyatakan, “Terdapat kemungkinan untuk melakukannya, tetapi kami perlu mempertimbangkan kedudukan model dan apa yang diperlukan untuk model-model tersebut.” Sugino juga menyatakan bahawa “Resonator tayar tersebut direka khas untuk varian hibrid untuk prestasi bunyi, getaran, dan kekasaran (NVH) yang lebih tinggi, itulah sebabnya varian lain tidak memilikinya.”

Dalam perkara yang lain, memandangkan Honda City kini datang dalam lima varian berbanding empat sebelum ini kerana versi petrol sekarang juga mempunyai model RS sendiri, kami bertanya jika konsep yang sama akan digunakan untuk CR-V baru, dan Sugino menjawab dengan “Sehingga kini, tidak.” Ia akan menjadi sentuhan yang bagus jika Honda melakukannya.

Apabila ditanya tentang pengenalan varian hibrid AWD, serupa dengan yang ditawarkan di Thailand, Sugino berkata, “Jika kami melakukannya, kami akan menambah pilihan varian lain, yang akan memberikan pelanggan lebih banyak pilihan tetapi pada masa yang sama ia tidak akan menjadi optimal untuk kecekapan dalam pengeluaran, itulah sebabnya kami memutuskan yang terbaik adalah pilihan 2WD.”

Continuous noise emitted by tyres while driving on highways can become a source of irritation for drivers. This noise results from resonance occurring within the hollow spaces of the tyres when encountering uneven surfaces on the road. For automobile manufacturers aiming to offer a smooth and quiet driving experience, this has posed a significant challenge. To address this issue, noise-reducing wheels have been developed, employing hollow resonators to dampen unwanted resonance and ensure a serene and comfortable ride.

The noise produced within the tyre resembles the resonant sound of bouncing a basketball or volleyball on a hard surface. In cars, this pipe resonance, along with accompanying vibrations, travels from the wheels through the suspension and into the cabin, creating undesirable and bothersome noise.

Honda embarked on a mission to mitigate this noise problem. Recognising that the frequency of pipe resonance varies based on the shape and volume of the air enclosure—similar to the differing sounds produced when bouncing different types of balls—led to the realisation that tyre size determines pipe resonance frequency. Armed with this understanding, Honda devised a method to counteract pipe resonance by generating sound waves that neutralise this specific frequency.

To achieve this, Honda explored the concept of Helmholtz resonance, where sound is produced when air is blown across the opening of a container, such as an empty bottle, with the container’s shape and air volume dictating the resulting frequency. Leveraging this principle, Honda devised a resonator encircling the wheel, capable of emitting sound waves matching the frequency of pipe resonance generated by the tire. This innovative design effectively suppresses unwanted noise, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Now, you may have the idea that you can purchase the wheel resonators separately and apply them to your new rims, but during a recent press conference, Honda stated that it is not possible to do so. Mr. Sarly Adle Sarkum, President and Chief Operating Officer of Honda, stated, “Someone had tried to purchase the resonators and apply them on the lower variant CR-Vs, and that’s just not possible because it would not fit.”

When Piston Malaysia asked Mr. Yujiro Sugino, Executive Coordinator, and Mr. Eisuke Sato, Large Project Leader (CR-V), about the wheel resonators, as well as the Bose sound system being introduced into the lower variants, they stated, “There is a possibility of doing so, but we would need to consider the model positioning and what is required for those models.” Sugino also stated that “The resonators were designed specifically for the hybrid variant for higher noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) performance, which is why the other variants do not have it.”

On another note, since the Honda City now comes in five variants rather than the previous four since the petrol versions now also have their own RS model, we asked if the same concept would be applied to the new CR-V, and Sugino replied with a simple “As of now, no.” It would be a nice touch if Honda did so.

When asked about the introduction of the AWD hybrid variant, similar to the one offered in Thailand, Sugino said that “If we were to do so, we would be adding another option of variant, which would give customers more choices but at the same time it would not be optimal for efficiency in production, which is why we decided it was best to go with the 2WD option.”