Honda's latest CR-V will introduce front-wheel drive variants to the local market for the first time when it makes its debut at the Australian International Motor Show later this month.
Originally launched in Australia back in 1997, the CR-V has always been a 'softroader', with torque diverted to the rear wheels only when required, but the new model marks the first occasion buyers can opt for (two) versions without any form of final drive to the rear wheels. It's in line with other car companies that have been extolling the cost benefits of SUVs with only two wheels driven. Four-wheel drive models continue in the range, however, with three different variants available. “We are really looking forward to the CR-V’s Australian debut,” said Honda Australia’s Director and General Manager Sales and Marketing, Stephen Collins, as quoted in a press release. “The fourth-generation CR-V has been a great success so far around the world and we know Australians will embrace the upgrades to its styling, features and handling Honda’s engineers have made.”
“The CR-V has been one of Honda Australia’s most successful models. The segment has been rapidly expanding since the introduction of the CR-V back in 1997 and it has performed very well for us in that time.”
Honda will also display the Jazz Hybrid at AIMS. The petrol/electric Jazz joins other hybrids in the local Honda range, including the Civic, Insight and CR-Z. Fuel consumption is rated at 4.5L/100km in combined-cycle usage and the car emits 107g/km of CO2 in the same test. Honda claims that the car can achieve a range of roughly 850km on a tank of fuel.
Prices and specifications for the new models will be revealed on the opening day of the show, October 18. The CR-V is scheduled to go on sale locally around mid-November and the Jazz Hybrid isn't due in Australia until next year.
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