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Audi Q7

Feb 28 2015

Audi Q7

 

The massive Audi Q7 was among the last of the German maker’s models to receive its well deserved refresh, as the old generation wasn’t up to date with the latest design elements implemented to the rest of the range.

Audi Q7

For starters, its classical, massive SUV footprint has transformed in to a massive wagon footprint, as the car underwent a redesign that makes it look like an A4 wagon with raised suspension kit. This element has brought it massive criticism from the fans, which were bewildered as to why the automaker has resorted to this decision, since the rest of the four by fours in the range have kept their overall proportions.

While we might never get a clear answer from Audi, the big change that occurred was that more than 41% of the car’s chassis and body feature aluminium instead of steel, resulting in a reduction in weight of no less than 325 kilograms.

The front of the vehicle stands out through its huge silver grille. Essentially the same as the one present on the Q3 or Q5 – but bigger, the angular “3D” grille is not there just for show, as behind it, active aerodynamic elements shut the pathway to the radiator when engine cooling is not required, thus resulting in lower drag. However, we’re told that this feature will be present on only some of the examples, presumably the top of the line ones – as implementing them on all levels would be too costly.

The headlamps have a double arrow LED pattern, which serves as day running lights and it offers the car an individualistic appearance once nightfall sets in. Lower still, a subtle a-la-TT slit connects the two massive air intakes from the front bumper. Underneath the body, air channels and plastic cladding make sure that the drivetrain components do not oppose as much wind resistance as the previous version did.

Audi Q7Moving on to the sides, the roofline appears to sit lower and the contoured shoulders, along with the straight character line that runs the length of the car make it appear as it is no longer a full size SUV, but an oversized wagon. On the other hand, the flared wheel arches do showcase the large 19 inch alloy wheels, making it look imposing.

The rear has a pair of taillights that mirror the design of the lamps in the front, as the same double arrow design is employed here. A large roof spoiler, together with a sleek air diffuser which now incorporates a pair of flat exhaust tips rounds off the image of Audi’s new big toy.

 

 Audi Q7 – 5 Point Car Review

Design

Audi Q7As opposed to the outside, the interior of the Audi Q7 seems to come from a different world. A hyper minimalistic design, worthy of being showcased on a supercar rather than in a mundane SUV is replacing the more common dashboard design of old. For starters, Audi’s Virtual Cockpit is powered by BlackBerry’s QNX software (also used by the new generation Fords), first to debut in the TT. This replaces the traditional dials behind the wheel with a massive display, which serves both as navigation and is able to relay in real time crucial information to the driver at a glance. Internet connectivity is present by default.

A second, standalone screen is embedded in the dashboard, which may also be used for navigation or entertainment purposes. The multifunctional steering wheel mirrors in its centre, the design of the front grille, with the Audi logo embedded in the leather. As part of the new interior arrangement, the dashboard, as well as the central console feature only essential dials and knobs, the rest of the functions becoming controllable via the intelligent software.

Driving

Audi Q7Present in Detroit only as a showcase model, the Audi Q7 was not allowed to leave the boot, so we don’t have a precise idea about the handling of the new model. Although it still weighs about two tons, its lowered weight should make it more nimble in traffic. The show model had an air suspension fitted to it, which we don’t know if it will be available only to select models or the hole lot of Q7’s, but it can be adjusted to suit your needs – it permits lowering the car with 30mm or jacking it up to 60mm. So yeah, you can mount your neighbour’s coupe now!

In addition to the seven selectable driving modes (dynamic, allroad, individual, efficiency, comfort, auto and lift/offroad), the new model will also benefit from a technology that permits the rear wheels to steer to as much as five degrees in unison with the ones in the front, in order to improve overall handling. To top it off, the new Audi Q7 uses the MLB platform, which will be used by the upcoming Bentley Bentayga and Porsche Cayenne.

Reliability

Audi Q7The old Audi Q7 has maintained a reputation of being quite a reliable vehicle, with only uneven tire wear as the most complained about issue. A recall about the failure of the electrical motor operating the optional powered bootlid was the largest of problems, but all in all, it was a solid car. The current version seeks to up the ante, as the German engineers have been hard at work to improve Audi’s image as a premium car manufacturer. An unpleasant fact with which the company was faced was that the old version only scored four stars out of five at the Euro NCAP crash tests, aspect that the latest iteration seeks to mend.

 

Running costs

Audi Q7The UK market will receive, at launch only one motorisation, in the form of a 3.0 litre diesel engine. With 270 horsepower on tap and up to 443lb ft of torque, it promises a 0 to 62 time of 6.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 146 miles per hour. MPG is quoted as being 47.8, mixed cycle.

Presumably towards the end of the second quarter of 2015, a second engine will be made available, albeit a less powerful one – the 215 horsepower V6. All power plants will be Euro6 compliant, as the auto giant seeks to reduce its footprint on the environment. In late 2015, a plug-in hybrid, dubbed the Audi Q7 e-tron, will arrive in the UK. Featuring a combination of a 3.0 litre V6 (256bhp) and an electric motor, the end result will be an output of 370 horsepower and 516 lb ft of torque.

Additional info reveals that the expected fuel economy for the model will be 166 mpg, and final emissions will top off at 50g/km, while the 0 to 62 sprint will take only 6.1 seconds. Top speed will be 139 miles per hour but don’t expect to get that fuel economy figure if you’re keen on testing the limits of the car.

No prices have been revealed, but we can expect the new model to have roughly the same price tag as the former generation, perhaps a smidge extra. As a reminder, the former Q7’s cost started from £43,895 up to £65,220.

Practicality

Audi Q7The 2016 Audi Q7 is smaller in size compared to the model it replaces: it’s 37mm shorter, 15mm narrower and it sits 50mm lower, with the wheelbase being reduced by 10mm. However, the magical Audi fairy made the reduction in size irrelevant as the interior space actually grew, providing 21mm of extra leg room for the passengers on the second row of seats.

There are three rows of seats in the car, but we would only recommend using the third only for children of in extreme cases for adults, but not for extended periods of time, as things will get uncomfortable. Boot space is impressive, starting with 290 litres with all seats in place, to 890 litres with the third row folded. A maximum of 2,075 litres sit at your disposal if you fold the middle row as well, enabling you to transport small boats with ease.

 

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Audi Q3

Feb 21 2015

Audi Q3 UK Car Review

 

Audi’s compact SUV has been well received by the audience, selling in fairly large numbers, which lead the manufacturer to provide it with a well deserved refresh for 2015.

Audi Q3

Sharing the same design language with the rest of the Ingolstadt range, the new Audi Q3 is more refined than before, both in exterior appearance and cabin space and is fitted with more efficient engines.

In terms of looks, the fascia is immediately noticeable, as the large grille, spanning more than it has before, sports a more angular contour. Going back to the new TT, this feature has been transplanted to the entire range of vehicles belonging to Audi, in order to consolidate its image in the eyes of the consumer. Framed by a chrome margin, it will undoubtedly stand out.

Flanking it, two horizontally positioned headlamps also incorporate the already traditional LED day running light arranged in a characteristic pattern, specific to each model. In our case, they are laid out in an angular manner, mirroring other elements, such as the prominent central lip of the front bumper. Since we’re in this area, the bumper is characterized by large air intakes, but, to our dismay, they are covered by black plastic covers and aren’t functional.

Unlike the larger Audi Q7 which now looks like a wagon on stilts, the Q3 has retained its mini-SUV identity. Its sides are very athletic, as the roofline falls towards the rear, the effect reinforced by the progressively thinning window line. Aluminum elements, such as the roof rails and the contour of the glass surface give it a livelier image, also aiding the visual impact. Coming standard with 17 inch Y spoke alloy wheels, the Audi Q3 has a muscular appearance, subtly suggested by the flared wheel arches. As a pleasant addition, the vehicle also comes with plastic body protection but unlike some other rivals, it matches the paint of the vehicle.

Audi Q3Moving on to the rear, a roof spoiler adorns its upper side. The headlamps are somewhat similar to those of the last generation and to the ones fitted on the Audi Q5. Lower still, the exhaust tips are now integrated in the rear spoiler instead of being hidden.

Should you want more, there’s always the RS Q3 version, a more potent variation of the compact SUV. With a tweaked suspension system, more nimble acceleration figures (4.8seconds to 62 from a standstill) and a top speed limited to 155 miles per hours, the RS is nothing to sneer at. Add to that the improved looks and select a more eye-popping paintjob and you’ll be bound to be noticed on the road. However, prepare to pay as much as £45,495 as a starting price.

 

 

 Audi Q3 – 5 Point Car Review

Design

Audi Q3Inside, the Audi Q3 looks a lot like the old one, mostly because the 2015 version is a facelift and not an entirely new generation, as was with the TT. Soft touch materials cover the dashboard, centre console and door faces. A nifty multimedia screen pops up from the dash to display critical info and it can be accessed via steering wheel controls, but it’s still powered by MMI, lagging behind competitors.

The trim choice has improved and you can have various inlays, ranging from aluminum and piano black up to walnut brown veneer. If you still want more, you can always rely on Audi Exclusive, the Ingolstadt manufacturer’s bespoke service, to select a wide range of exterior and interior colours, personalized upholstery, custom inlays and so on. Just make sure your wallet is thick enough!

Driving

Audi Q3Although marketed as an SUV, we highly doubt that the Audi Q3 will see more than a few muddy country roads. After all, the low ground clearance and its other limited off-road capabilities restrict it to (mainly) tarmac.

Inside, the driving position is quite elevated, evading the small SUV image and the lumbar support offered by the seats is top notch. Insofar as the driving experience goes, the compact Audi isn’t the most involving of the vehicles we’ve driven. Put it alongside an Range Rover Evoque and it will hide in shame. However, its best point remains comfort, as the suspension does a splendid job of filtering road imperfections and courtesy of Audi, you have the option of selecting driving modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and efficiency, which, as you might have guessed refer to the prior mentioned categories. The “cushiony” feel of the drivetrain affects in-corner behavior, as the little Audi Q3 does exhibit some symptoms of body roll, but as long as you don’t push it to the max in hairpins, it will do its job quite well.

Reliability

Audi Q3The Audi Q3’s popularity has stemmed from its unique range of offering and one of them is its known reliability. With the new model, Audi has improved both the electrical side and the mechanical part of the car, so issues will most likely be sporadic. In addition, you’ll be happy to hear that each new Audi will receive a 3 year Audi warranty, with unlimited mileage for the first 2 years of ownership and full mechanical and electrical warranty bound to cover you for up to 60,000 miles in the 3rd year. Paint also receives a 3 year warranty, as well as 12 years protection against corrosion and UK roadside assistance for 3 years.

Running Costs

The base SE comes with a price tag of £25,340. For the money, you’ll get a 150bhp, 1.4 litre TFSI engine, coupled to a 6 speed manual gearbox, which has on-demand cylinder deactivation technology, helping you save a bit of fuel when you’re not driving it actively. Fuel economy figures revolve around the figure of 51.4 mpg mixed cycle. The best mileage comes from the 2.0 litre TDI, 150bhp powerplant, which is able to return 61.4mpg.

The top of the line Audi Q3 is represented by the S Line Plus trim; engine choices come in petrol (2.0 TFSI, 180bhp) form and diesel (2.0 TDI 150bhp/2.0 TDI 184bhp). Prices for the respective categories range from £33,675 for the petrol and £34,150/£34,945.

Practicality

Audi Q3On par with the BMW X1, the Audi Q3 has precisely 420 litres allocated to the boot, with seats up. Folding them clears up to 1,325 litres, which should be sufficient for carrying bags and the like, but it won’t be a champion hauler; for something bigger, just look at the Q5 of Q7, if you fancy Audi.

Interior space is plentiful for adults. In the front, the passenger and driver have an excellent position, and the seats allow for an elevated driving position. In the back seat, you won’t feel cramped in the least, as the front seats have recessed backs and there is plenty of head and legroom. However, we wouldn’t advise fitting adults there for a long time, as the transmission tunnel is elevated and the middle seat is a bit narrow, but it should suffice for occasional use.

If you want to know more about the Audi Q3, click here.

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BMW X1

Feb 12 2015

Bmw X1 UK Car Review

When it was first introduced on the market, the BMW X1 took advantage of a niche that was mostly barren, but as times progress, so did the segment fill with alternatives. We’re talking here about competition from the likes of Audi Q3 and Range Rover Evoque, which have established themselves as powerful opponents. The X1 still remains a worthy alternative, only uglier, aspect we are going to tackle further on.

BMW X1

The company insists the X1 is part of the 1 Series family, as it is built on the same production line with all the variations of the BMW 1 Series; moreover, on the corporate website, the X1 appears on the same branch with the other 1 Series examples. Truth be told, this is more a marketing scheme in order to showcase the compact nature of the small SUV and the versatility of a single line of cars, as the automobile shares the bulk of its components with the larger 3 Series.

Compared to its rivals, the BMW X1 looks a bit incoherent. The front end seems to be too long compared to the rear, as the bonnet extends beyond the front axle and the actual cars starts from that point. The famous kidney grille is in place, flanked by the hawk beak headlamps and the circular fog lights. Below, the bumper has a single horizontal air intake, spanning the entire front of the car, with a prominent lip emphasizing its width. A common characteristic in the crossover/small SUV segment is the plastic body trim which decorated the exterior of the vehicle, from the front to the rear, encompassing the wheel arches and side skits – the X1 doesn’t disprove it, although this can be painted in body colour, not just in black.

BMW X1Looking at the window line from the profile, it somewhat resembles the one from the 5 Series GT, but unlike the pretentious lines of its larger brother, the BMW X1 looks more as a reinterpreted wagon than a thoroughbred SUV.

The rear is very much recognizable as belonging to the Bavarian company, as it sports a boot lid a-la-X3 and a pair of rear lights that seem lifted from a 3 Series. Lower still, a rather plain bumper incorporates only a single exhaust tip.

All in all, if you’re willing to ignore the less than attractive exterior, the compact SUV is not something to sneer at, as it offers decent versatility, moderate off-road capability and ample cargo space for your luggage.

 

 

BMW X1 – 5 Point Review

Design

BMW X1Inside, the X1 looks as a carbon copy of other variants in the range, such as the regular 1 Series and the larger 3 Series. Perhaps a bit of individuality wouldn’t have hurt.

The large dials are clear and deliver the information you need at a glance, and the three spoke steering wheel has controls mounted on it, so it’s easier to access various functions of the automobile without taking your hands off it. Concerning quality, we prefer the looks of the regular 1 Series, which seems to have been given more attention than what we have here. Despite the resemblance to the 3 Series, don’t get your hopes up, as the BMW X1 is miles behind: the dashboard and centre console, as well as some other visible area have an inadequate build quality and feel, as hard surfaces greet you instead of providing you with a more pleasant tactile sensation. Regardless of the company’s claims of luxury, the reality differs from the pretty media talk.

Driving

BMW X1The BMW X1 washes some of its sins when it comes to driving. Unlike other similar sized vehicles, the base model is rear wheel drive, which grants it some unique characteristics, giving the impression that you’re not driving an SUV, but a saloon with a jacked up suspension. Also, the lower than usual driving position contributes to conveying this feel, as the driver’s seat is situated in a slightly less elevated position than you would get in a competing automobile. The four wheel drive version is able to tackle mildly rugged terrain, but don’t venture too far, as the primary function of the vehicle is on-road driving.

If you’re buying the car strictly for urban usage, mind the fact that the steering might get a little heavy, especially when you’re faced with sharp turns. Although power assisted, it still has something that prevents it from being as smooth as we would like it to be, considering the premium assertions of the brand. That being said, you still get a bit of body roll – more than in a salon or a wagon, but less than some rivals, such as the Tiguan.

Reliability

BMW X1Users of X1’s haven’t reported major issues insofar as engine and drivetrain failures are concerned, nor did the electrical part pose a problem. On the other hand, the heavy steering has been heavily criticised, together with the interior build quality which was considered unworthy for a car with a premium reputation (and price tag).

An aspect that you might consider is that unlike some of its Japanese rivals, BMWs tend to have a better resale value, so if you ever get bored and decide to buy something else, you will not face heavy depreciation and you’ll get a fair price for your car.

Running Costs

BMW X1Prices for the BMW X1 start from £24,230 for the base model and go as high as £35,105 for the xDrive25d M Sport variant.

The most efficient power plant from the X1 line-up is the sDrive 20d Efficient Dynamics, which will return 62.8 mpg, mixed cycle. Powered by a 2.0 litre diesel, it produces 163 horsepower and comes at a cost of 26,760. It’s not the fastest thing on earth, as it lags slightly behind the “normal” 2.0 diesel, but it comes with start/stop technology by default, which should make up by providing better mileage.

The most powerful engine is, again, a diesel. More specifically, the xDrive 25d M Sport variant, which promises 218 horsepower, extracted from a 2.0 litre unit. Mileage remains decent, at 51.4 mpg for the automatic and 47.9 for the manual, and it delivers rather impressive results for an SUV: 0-62 comes in a mere 6.8 seconds and the top speed stands at 127 miles per hour. Price for the automatic gearbox variant stands at £35,105, while the manual retails for £33,540.

Practicality

BMW X1The BMW X1 provides sufficient room in the front for the driver and the passenger. However, if you move on the back seat, things get a bit crowded, as the front seats only allow for marginal leg room and overall comfort is reduced to a minimum. Headroom is plentiful, as the high roofline is accommodating, yet despite the fact that BMW advertises the car as being able to sit five adults comfortably, we’d slash that figure to 4, as the slim middle seat and large footprint of the transmission tunnel will make for one awkward ride. Boot space, with seats in place measures 420 litres, expandable up to 1,350 litres if the second row is folded. Moreover, the boot lip is sits relatively low, so you won’t have to struggle to remove heavy objects.

If you require any further information on the BMW X1, click here.

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Mitsubishi Outlander 2014

Nov 12 2014

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014 Review

 

Perhaps one of the less than beautiful entries in the SUV/crossover segment, the Mitsubishi Outlander is still one of the best cars when it comes to value for money. Leaving aside the appearance, the car focuses more on its utilitarian side and reasonable fuel consumption than on looks.

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014

Following the ever increasing interest for environmental protection, Mitsubishi has decided that even the Outlander, a large SUV with off-roading capabilities, can be part of this movement. Thus, the model is offered in both diesel and hybrid form, according to preference and budget.

Staying true to its off-road heritage, it’s one of the few SUVs on the market which comes with 4 wheel drive as standard, whereas the competition asks you to pay extra for that feature. Moreover, should there be a need to transport more passengers, two extra seats are located in the boot (lying flat with the boot floor) and can be used, but due to the limited space, we would only recommend them for limited use by adults. Children, however, should have no difficulty in finding them comfortable.

The front is dominated by the sleek headlights and the thin chromed grille, which also incorporates the Mitsubishi logo. The front bumper incorporates a large air intake, with fog laps sitting at the extremities and black plastic protection element all around the car. Also, there’s an engine shield to protect the power plant in case the driver feels ventures off the normal driving surface.

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014The sides of the car are equally sleek, as there are no design elements to perturb the flow of clean lines; the mirrors have integrated, clear glass indicators. The window line profile becomes thinner towards the rear, as the roof plunges slightly, and it is framed by a chrome ornament. Due to its less than edgy nature, the rounded, smooth lines of the Mitsubishi Outlander allow it to be the most aerodynamically efficient model in its class – no wonder it is so fuel efficient!

Venturing further, the rear of the vehicles houses the clear glass, rear lights, which feature mostly white tint, becoming bright red (and orange) only when needed. A horizontal thin strip of chrome connects the lamps, balancing the proportions of the rear end. Underneath the rear bumper, the single exhaust sits out of sight, leaving only the gray coloured low portion of the bumper to stand out.

 

 

 Mitsubishi Outlander 2014 – 5 Point Review

 

Design

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014Inside, the Mitsubishi Outlander feels somewhat behind the competition. Whereas rivals such as Nissan and Toyota have opted for more dramatically styled interiors, Mitsubishi has chosen to provide a functionality over form approach, as everything serves a certain purpose, but, sadly, in a dull manner. Although it offers Bluetooth connectivity, a rear view camera and leather upholstery, not everything is standard and that means you have to fork out more money for options. Moreover, the quality of the materials employed in decorating the cabin aren’t of the greatest quality, so that might deter some customers.

 

Driving

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014All the models in the diesel range have a 2.2 litre in-line 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, which develops 147 bhp and is capable of reaching a top speed of 124 mph. Transmission comes in either manual or automatic form (6-speed), but the best acceleration figures are reached by using the former (10.2 seconds from 0 to 62mph), while the latter manages to reach the 62mph mark in 11.7 seconds. The suspension settings allow for a very comfortable ride, but the weight of the vehicle does take its toll, as cornering at high speeds tends to accentuate the body roll. The PHEV model makes use of a petrol engine-electric motor combination that has a total power output of 204 bhp, but due to the increased weight (due to the battery pack), is less nimble than the diesel version.

Reliability

The diesel propulsion unit is already a proven contender in the auto industry, as it has been used time and again by the manufacturer. Its excellent build quality ensures little to no mechanical damages reported and overall, the car feels solidly constructed. In terms of safety, Mitsubishi advertises on its UK website that the Mitsubishi Outlander has obtained a perfect, 5 out of 5 stars at the Euro NCAP tests, meaning that it will not only protect the occupants of the vehicle in case of collision, but also the other party, as it employs a host of active and passive safety features.

Driving costs

The cheapest Mitsubishi Outlander costs £23,984, while the top of the line model has a price tag of £34,234. In the case of the Outlander PHEV, the prices range from £33,304 up to £40,054, depending on the trim and options, but unfortunately, except for the hybrid system, Mitsubishi does not offer any differentiating element – visually – that the car is different from the diesel version, which is unfortunate, considering the premium paid over the conventional propulsion model. In terms of consumption, the diesel manages to reach 52.3mpg with a manual (combined cycle), while with an automatic transmission, the mileage hovers around 48.7mpg. The champion, however, is the hybrid, which returns 148mpg and due to its nature and limited emissions (44g/km) is exempted from road tax.

Practicality

Mitsubishi Outlander 2014Having one of the largest boots in class, the standard storage space measures 591 litres and with the seats folded it can be extended to a further 1,022 litres. Interior space is plentiful, while the back seat passengers will enjoy decent leg and headroom. The third row of seats is better to be avoided by adults should a long journey lay ahead and used by children instead, as the place is quite limited.

 

Thirsty for more information on the Mitsubishi Outlander? Take a look here.

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Honda CR-V 2014

Nov 4 2014

Honda CR-V 2014 Review

 

After 3 generations and more than five million examples sold worldwide, Honda CR-V has reached its fourth generation. Following a natural evolution, the vehicle has reached a certain degree of maturity – its design is better penned, an expansive range of equipment is included as standard and the build quality and the interior atmosphere have been drastically improved.

Honda CR-V 2014

At the date of its introduction, more specifically in 1995, it had little to no rivals, but as time and competition moved along, challenges have risen in its path. Over the course of 19 years, its dominance has been put to the test, while manufacturers moved in strides to push their offering as better, at the expense of the veteran Honda CR-V. In 2014, Honda has answered by introducing a new generation of its award winning SUV, which promises it’s still ahead of the competition. Is indeed, the new iteration of the CR-V up to the task? Let’s find out, shall we?

First of all, from a visual standpoint, the car makes a powerful statement, at least from the front. The large, three strake chromed grille with the large logo dominates the nose, flanked by the sharp headlights that bear reminiscence to both Saab and Subaru. In fact, its aura appears to be more that of a sporty crossover than of a fully fledged SUV, especially when taking into consideration that its off-road capabilities are limited to mild and moderate terrain. Perhaps this stems from the fact that the height has been reduced by 30mm, creating a much lower and aerodynamic profile that not only contributes to the car’s looks, but also plays a role in improving the fuel economy. Moving on, the bumper houses a flattened trapezium air intake, with two large fog lights sitting in dedicated positions, in line with the front wheels; beneath, a large shield is in charge of protecting the engine assembly from damage.

The characteristic window line has remained almost the same as before, being a particular trait of the vehicle that has received little alteration. A subtle chrome trim ornament outlines it, whilst little else stands out. The mirrors have integrated, clear glass turning signals, while the black plastic add-ons covering the front and rear bumper, as well as the side skirts serves as a reminder that the car may indeed, step –occasionally, that is – off-road.

The rear section has changed a bit, as the vertical rear lights have thinned down and the whole tailgate appears to be much taller, but it’s mostly a false effect, created by lines, as the car sits lower than its predecessors. On the upside, the key will open the door at the press of a button, saving you the effort and an internally placed control will close it.

 

 

Honda CR-V – 5 Point Review

Design

Honda CR-V InteriorRather than introducing a radical design for their fourth generation Honda CR-V, Honda preferred to take the more subtle approach and enough bits and pieces to make the car look new, but also have a touch of the familiarity, much like the treatment that Volkswagen is applying to its own range of automobiles. The interior of the SUV promises to be comfortable and welcoming, the ample space in the back easily allowing for extended drives without the passengers complaining of insufficient room to stretch their legs. Although the roof has been chopped by 30mm, both tall drivers and passengers will not find reasons to protest as the seats are mounted in a manner that does not interfere with their well being whilst inside.

Driving

One of the highlights of the car is its steering – light and precise, it will follow your guidance to the millimetre. The suspension system is tuned in order to absorb the irregularities of the road in the most efficient manner possible, but this comes at a cost, as the body roll is noticeable in tight bends. Even though it does not claim to have the pedigree of a sports car, the Honda CR-V feels somewhat sluggish at times, losing some of the agility that characterized earlier variants. For some, this might be a deal breaker, but then again, it depends on the preference, as the ride comfort is easily one of the best we’ve encountered.

Reliability

On its website, Honda proudly displays the award that the Honda CR-V was bestowed with from behalf of Which? Car Survey, that is, the title of the most reliable SUV of 2014. Seemingly, the average cost of service for this model was a mere £10, and with zero breakdown reported, this was enough to put the CR-V at the top of the charts. A host of safety features, including the Advanced Driver Assist System which is able to lightly correct steering and apply the brakes when needed, as well as a full 5 star Euro NCAP rating make it a smart choice for a driver that values a reliable, safe automobile.

Running costs

The range consists of the base Honda CR-V S, with a price of £22,000, and it moves progressively through S-T, SE, SE-T, SR and the top of the range EX (£30,255). Two special editions, the Black and White, start from £28,405 and include special paintjobs, 19 inch wheels, a custom mesh grille and individualized interior trims. The only available petrol engine is a 2.0 litre i-VTEC, with either a manual or automatic transmission with either 2 or 4 wheel drive. The manual has a reported consumption of 39.2 mpg for the 2WD and 38.2 for the 4WD manual and 37.7 for the 4WD automatic. On the diesel front, there are two options, either a 1.6 litre i-DTEC manual with only 2 wheel drive, which manages the best mpg, at 62.8 or a more powerful, 2.2 litre i-DTEC 4 WD, with either a manual (50.4mpg) or an automatic (42.8mpg) transmission. The latter is also the most potent diesel power plant, as it develops 174 bhp, while the petrol automatic manages to squeeze out 175 bhp.

Practicality

Honda CR-V Boot SpaceDespite being 5mm shorter, the 2014 Honda CR-V has the same interior space that the third generation boasted, only smarter organized. The rear doors open wide, permitting passengers to step inside without turning into a contortionist and the ample back seat is easily able to sit three adults; the best part of all is that the transmission tunnel has a low profile, meaning that you won’t have to sprawl your legs to sit comfortably if you ever find yourself in the middle, which we appreciate. The boot space is one of the largest in class at 589 litres with the seats in place and more than 1,669 litres with them folded, enough to dominate most of the competition.

 

If you would like to know more about the Honda CR-V this is a link to the official dealership website.

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