OD Garage: 2013 Honda CR-V first update
One SUV that I never really got the chance to drive is the Honda CR-V. I even missed driving the new generation model when it came in for a test. However, when it came back to us again last month, I wasn't going to let the opportunity go. Turns out, it's my new long-termer!
Everybody at Team OD and I still miss the Duster but I'm sure this new SUV will help us recover in no time.
The highlight of the CR-V has to be ease of driving and comfort. Driving through any city in India is a pain, especially if your car is a manual transmission with a heavy clutch. Today, a lot of people want to drive an automatic transmission car and I don't blame them. In fact, it actually makes sense to own one in India. The CR-V is available in either manual or auto transmission models. Honda gave us the 4WD variant and this variant is only offered with a 5-speed torque converter. My daily commute involves driving through at least 50km of heavy traffic and this is where the auto transmission comes to the rescue. Big in size it may be but piloting through Mumbai traffic is effortless thanks to the CR-V's light steering and high driving position.
The cushy seats are very comfortable and best-suited for long drives. Talking about long drives, this has to be the best Honda to take on a holiday. The engine and transmission combo is best-suited for cruising. Unlike my first gen Honda City VTEC that begs to be redlined at 7100rpm, the CR-V prefers a more gentle approach. And if you want space, there is ample for five adults and their luggage. It's been a hectic month thanks to the anniversary issue, but come September I'm definitely going out on a road trip with friends. Now if only the fuel efficiency could improve!