SUVs are traditionally known for a few core qualities, but the just-launched fifth-generation Honda CR-V makes do without one of em’ – 4-wheel drive (or all-wheel drive. Two different things, but that’s another story). Actually, it is available but only in the mid-spec variant. Take a look at all of the variants – price included – below:

*With GST. Insurance not included

Yes, the top-spec CR-V only spins the front-wheels, which is a deliberate decision Honda Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. says is based on market studies. Including 4-wheel drive would also increase the price and that’s perhaps the bigger motivation of excluding this configuration at the top-end of the line-up. After all, those prices listed above are admittedly enticing. Much of it comes from Honda Sensing and we will talk about that later on.

The 2.0-litre’s engine is carried over from the CR-V it replaces but the base-spec SUV now comes with LED for headlights, fog lights and DRL (standard on all variants. Previously it was HID headlights), paddle shifter, 7-inch audio display (standard for all), 8-speakers from the previous six, and even two USB slots for rear passengers.

This base-spec CR-V also features six airbags, VSA with Agile Handle Assist, Auto Brake Hold, Hill Start Assist, four corner reverse and front sensors, and multi angle rear view camera; all of which are standard across the line-up.

The 1.5 TC-P 2WD, however, comes with the all-new Honda Sensing safety suite. We talked about that previously (click here) and it is truly something that no other vehicle in its segment offers. Notably, Malaysia is the first country in the ASEAN region to introduce Honda Sensing and just like recently launched facelifted Honda Jazz where Honda engineers first took the effort in analysing the car’s suitability for local conditions, the same was done with Honda Sensing for Malaysian traffic environments.

Also included is the Honda LaneWatch camera that gives the driver a video feed of the lane on the CR-V’s left when needed. Similarly, the power tailgate function and Active Cornering Lights are only found in the 1.5 TC-P.

Inside, all CR-V variants with the 1.5 TC engine comes with a cabin with ‘wood’ garnish details. It does make the cabin look more elegant. It also adds warmth to the cabin that is even larger than the fourth-gen CR-V. HMSB says that at the moment there is no plan to introduce the 7-seater variant already available in other markets; although that is, as expected, depending on public demand.

As for the 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, it obviously is the same as the one in the current Civic; only that it now packs more power: 193ps (190bhp) at 5,600rpm and torque of 243Nm between 2,000 to 5,000rpm.

All variants – including the 2.0L – utilises a CVT gearbox.

The 1.5L TC-equipped CR-V has earned EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) status and which Honda claims to deliver 7.0-litre/100km fuel consumption. The naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre is not EEV-certified, but claimed to give 7.3L/200km average consumption.

HMSB expects to sell about 700 units of the latest Honda CR-V per month, mostly of the 2.0-litre variant for now. Five colour options are available with Dark Olive Metallic being a new introduction to the palette. The others are White Orchid Pearl, Obsidian Blue Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic and Modern Steel Metallic; the latter two as available in the previous-gen CR-V.

To further enhance the exclusivity and practicality of the All-New CR-V, three accessories packages are being offered. The Utility Package priced at RM1,165 includes Cargo Tray, Cargo Net, Trunk Organiser, Sun Shade and Door Protector Film, while The Urban Package which comes with Door Visor, Rear Bumper Protector and Illuminated Side Step is priced at RM1,790. The Aero Package for 2.0L 2WD and 1.5L VTEC Turbocharged variants are priced at RM5,900 and RM5,700 respectively and offer Front Aero Bumper, Running Board, Rear Aero Bumper, as well as Exhaust Pipe Finisher (2.0L 2WD only). These accessories package prices are after 10% discount, giving  savings of up to RM665.

The warranty for the All-New CR-V is maintained at 5 years with unlimited mileage at 10,000 km service intervals at any of the 91 Honda dealers nationwide.