HONDA Australia is set to give the CR-V SUV range a major boost when it introduces its 2021 model, with refreshed styling, new equipment and features, along with the inclusion of Honda Sensing as standard on all variants powered by the 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine.
Other key upgrades for next year’s CR-V include a hands-free function for the power tailgate and wireless phone charging on specific grades, as well as dual zone climate control and the 7-inch advanced display audio system standard across the range.
That means support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also included in every model. The 2021 CR-V will be the first nameplate to debut a new ‘Model Grade’ naming convention as well.
The move is designed to simplify the terminology used, while at the same time making it easier for customers to understand key differentiators when stepping up through the range.
The new naming convention will also create consistency of grade names across the broader Honda line-up when it is applied to other models over time.
The new grade names will distinguish between naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines, as well as between 2WD and AWD drive line configurations, while also clearly defining trim levels and seating capacities.
The new grade names for the updated CR-V range are Vi, VTi, VTi 7, VTi X, VTi L AWD, VTi L7 and VTi LX AWD. The ‘T’ in VTi represents a turbocharged engine, while ‘7’ and ‘AWD’ are both part of the official grade name to signify 7 seats and all-wheel drive.
In addition to the wider availability of Honda Sensing, the new CR-V also introduces a number of design and equipment upgrades across the range. New exterior styling creates a more upscale and distinctive presence.
That’s courtesy of new bumper designs front and rear, with silver or grey lower accent treatments depending on the grade and a new blackout grille, dark tinted tail light lenses and a dark chrome tailgate garnish.
A new 18-inch alloy wheel is fitted to VTi X, VTi L AWD and VTi L7 grades, while the high-series VTi LX AWD now has its own unique 19-inch alloy wheel, in a striking Y-spoke design with a light grey finish.
Two new paint colours have been added to the colour palette for the 2021 CR-V, including Ignite Red Metallic, which is the hero colour for next year’s model range, and Cosmic Blue Metallic.
The five existing colours carried across to the new model are Platinum White Pearlescent, Lunar Silver Metallic, Brilliant Sporty Blue Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic and Crystal Black Pearlescent.
Inside, all grades of the new CR-V benefit from a redesigned centre console with improved storage and convenience, enabling easier access to phone and USB ports, while the VTi L7 and VTi LX AWD grades are equipped with a wireless charging pad.
The new affordable luxury VTi L AWD grade is equipped with leather-appointed seat trim, heated front seats and 8-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat.
On top of Honda Sensing, hands-free power tailgate and wireless charging, the high series seven-seat VTi L7 grade also gains LED headlights, LED fog lights and privacy glass.
The first examples of new Honda CR-V will start arriving at Honda dealerships around Australia during August, ahead of the official on sale date of 1 September 2020.
In line with the significant increase to standard equipment and specification levels across the range, prices have also increased for the first time since the current generation CR-V was launched in July 2017.
Pricing starts from $30,490 plus on roads for the entry level, while the top model comes in at $47,490 plus on roads. For further information, contact your local Honda dealer.
