The fourth-generation Honda CR-V embraces a sophisticated and bold styling direction, offers multiple technology firsts for Honda and increases fuel economy on all models, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced. Long established as the benchmark vehicle in its class in terms of quality, refinement and popularity, the 2012 CR-V is designed to continue to exceed customer expectations for entry-level SUVs. Major enhancements include improved car-like interior comfort, a smoother and quieter ride, and more innovative features.
Body
Significant reductions to the impact of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) throughout the body and chassis improve interior quietness and ride quality compared to the previous model. To achieve the improvement, the 2012 Honda CR-V has greater body rigidity, lighter suspension components, additional noise insulation and more aerodynamic features including underbody covers and a rear spoiler.
Exterior Dimensions
The 2012 Honda CR-V rides on a 103.1-inch wheelbase and measures 178.3 inches in length, 0.8-inches shorter than the previous-generation CR-V. At 71.6 inches, overall width is the same as the previous CR-V, and at 61.6 inches front/61.6 inches rear, the track is also the same. But the most significant departure is in height: at 65.1 inches tall, the 2012 CR-V is a noticeable 1.0-inch lower on AWD models and 1.4 inches lower on FWD models. Although the aggregate visual effect is of a lower, sleeker CR-V, even with these exterior dimension adjustments the new model is still roomier inside.
Exterior Styling and Design Concept
The size and proportion of the previous-generation Honda CR-V contributed to its success as the best-selling SUV in every calendar year from 2007 through 2010, as did refined styling features such as the multi-reflector halogen headlights, long full-body taillights, and exterior detailing that conveyed both ruggedness and sophistication.
Compared to the previous-generation CR-V, the 2012 model takes on a more aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deeper sculpting of the bodylines and a bolder front fascia. The front bumper's smooth-flowing lines are highlighted by a horizontal three-bar grille and deeply set multi-reflector headlights. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle, while the lower front bumper design now integrates more smoothly with the fascia for improved aerodynamics. The CR-V's signature vertical rear brake lights, which originally debuted on the 1997 model, remain for 2012 with a more three-dimensional style that further compliments the design and aerodynamics of the vehicle. The CR-V's large wheels and bold fender flares emphasize the vehicle's dynamic presence and capability.
In aerodynamic efficiency, the new CR-V is targeted to be at the top of its class, with numerous design elements contributing to improved efficiency. The longer roofline and integrated rear spoiler help to lower the coefficient of drag.
The CR-V EX-L is equipped with silver roof rails that start at the A-pillars and sweep along the roofline toward the rear end of the vehicle (available as an accessory on CR-V LX and EX). These rails provide an attachment point for an accessory rack, while also providing a dramatic visual element. The rails are fully functional, with each side including three anchor points.
Side Door Design with Improved Ingress and Egress
When the doors are open, the side-sill garnish covering the rocker panel creates a more direct pathway to the ground when entering or exiting the vehicle compared to the previous generation Honda CR-V. The end result is less step-over distance for better comfort and a reduction in the likelihood of leg contact with the side of the vehicle.
Aerodynamic Enhancements
The CR-V gets significant improvements in aerodynamic refinement and efficiency for 2012, which reduces interior noise and helps to increase fuel economy. Among the improvements is a body design that significantly improves aerodynamic efficiency by helping air to move over, around and underneath the CR-V. In doing so, the floor uses new or enlarged undercovers beneath the engine, behind the front subframe, under the passenger cabin, and under the trunk area to help air flow more smoothly, resulting in less turbulence and drag. Additional details including radiator air ducts, air strakes and a rear spoiler, all combine to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Rigid Unit-Body Construction
In the new 2012 CR-V, numerous improvements contribute to a higher-strength unit-body, which improves ride and handling, as well as interior noise levels. All-new engineering improves the overall strength of the front bulkhead, front and rear wheel arches, A-, B-, C- and D-pillars and body posts compared to the previous-generation Honda CR-V. As a result, overall stability increased, benefiting steering precision and feel, ride comfort and dynamic stability. The body side sills are also shaped to further improve ingress and egress ergonomics.
Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure
Originally debuting on the 2005 Odyssey, the 2012 CR-V employs the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. (Please see Safety section for more information.) The ACE body structure is a pioneering Honda unit-body construction technology. First introduced to CR-V in the 2007 model, ACE™ increases the vehicle body's ability to manage crash energy in a frontal collision, even if the CR-V should collide with another vehicle that is either larger or smaller.
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines
All models receive a multi-angle rearview camera, visible on the 5-inch intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID). The camera can show a top view, 130-degree view or 180-degree rear view when the transmission is in Reverse. The camera is located just above the license plate on the tailgate. Guidelines help drivers gauge how close they are to an object. The dotted line indicates the closest distance that the tailgate can be opened. On navigation system-equipped models, the image appears on its 6.5-inch screen. (Please see Interior section for more information.)
Visibility and Glass
Excellent outward visibility is a hallmark of Honda design and a key feature for the 2012 Honda CR-V. Like its predecessor, Honda's fourth-generation compact utility vehicle retains excellent front and rear sight lines for the driver, including a commanding eye point level and a short forward invisible length (the distance a driver needs to look to see the ground in front of the vehicle). This invisible length is further improved at the corners of the 2012 CR-V hood, enabling the driver to see shorter objects closer to the front bumper.
The CR-V also has UV-resistant privacy glass with dark tinting on the second-row windows. This glass filters UV light and results in less interior fade over time, lower cabin temperatures on hot days, and more efficient interior cooling. The rear side windows include an ECON badge in recognition of the CR-V's ECON function. (Please see Powertrain section for more information.)
Power Windows
Power windows, with an auto-up/down driver's window, are standard on all CR-V models. Individual controls are located by their respective windows. Pressing a master switch on the driver's window control panel can deactivate the passengers' windows.
One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature
The Honda CR-V EX and EX-L models have a one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature that will fully open or close with a single touch of the switch. Construction of the moonroof mechanism was studied to provide ample headroom. The moonroof has a sliding sunshade that opens with the roof and can be closed to block sunlight. To tilt or slide the moonroof, the driver or front passenger needs only to fully press the ceiling-mounted switch once (instead of pressing and holding it for several seconds). The moonroof fully opens or closes automatically. However, if the operator wishes to only partially open or close the moonroof (such as to achieve partial ventilation), a lighter touch yields fully manual control. The moonroof can also tilt to provide ventilation. An auto-reverse feature is built in, helping to ensure that the moonroof will not forcefully close if someone's hand or arm is positioned in the path of the glass. If an obstruction is detected, the moonroof mechanism will reopen the moonroof.
Tailgate
The 2012 CR-V features a manual tailgate that can be unlocked with the remote or by pressing a button inside the driver's door. Twin gas-charged hydraulic struts ease opening the tailgate, and a single pull-down handle is located on the right side. The tailgate has a complete 360-degree gasket for a tight seal against the intrusion of water, dirt and wind noise. In addition, the rear aperture of the CR-V body is specially reinforced to strengthen the tailgate opening, which is the largest opening on the vehicle body. This increased rigidity at this critical location improves ride and handling, as well as interior quietness. The tailgate automatically locks whenever the CR-V is locked.
Windshield Wipers
Positioning the 2012 CR-V's windshield wipers behind and below the rear edge of the hood line keeps them below the driver's normal sightline for improved forward visibility. In addition, the wipers are positioned out of the airflow over the hood to reduce turbulence that can contribute to aerodynamic drag and interior noise. For pedestrian safety, the pivots are deformable. (Please see Safety section for more information.) A rear windshield wiper is also included.
Operation of the windshield wipers remains intuitively simple for the 2012 model year. As before, a stalk positioned next to the steering wheel controls the wipers. But on the new Honda CR-V, organization of the controls on the stalk was simplified to make operation simpler and more intuitive. With the new vehicle, pushing the stalk up or down operates the front windshield wipers, and twisting the outside part of the stalk operates the rear windshield wiper.
Multi-Reflector Halogen Headlights
The 2012 CR-V is equipped with multi-reflector halogen headlights for a dynamic and dramatic appearance. In addition, all CR-V models (expanded from just CR-V EX-L previously) have a headlight Auto-Off feature for added convenience. The Auto Off timer function can be customized through the i-MID. CR-V EX-L models finclude Auto On/Off as a premium feature.
The halogen high beams offer a bright and focused light beam that shines significantly stronger and wider than the low beam lights. By operating at a lower voltage, the halogen low beams serve double-duty as the daytime running lights (DRL), which automatically turn on when the ignition is on.
Taillights and Brake Lights
The 2012 CR-V taillight system features incandescent taillights and outboard brake lights, and attention-grabbing LED illumination for the Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL) that is embedded in the rear spoiler. The CHMSL lens is white with red-illuminating LEDs underneath.
The taillights are reminiscent of previous-generation Honda CR-V taillights, but are now more stylized and three-dimensional appearing. Along with the new body styling, they add an exciting and distinctive appearance to the rear of the new CR-V. Large rectangular backup lights provide bright illumination when backing up.
The complex taillight shape helps the CR-V meet aerodynamic as well as design objectives. The upper part owes its shape to aerodynamics. It is purposely designed to work in concert with the spoiler extending from the roof to better channel the airflow around the rear of the vehicle. At the other end, the lower part broadens significantly toward its base in a unique kink both forward and to the side to give the model its distinctive rear quarter appearance.
Fuel Tank
The CR-V's fuel tank is located forward of the rear multi-link suspension. Its lightweight polypropylene design offers low weight and good capacity for its size. The composite design allows a generous fuel capacity of 15.3 gallons, identical to that of the previous-generation CR-V. The CR-V also incorporates a returnless fuel supply system that helps reduce vapor generation.
Exterior Colors
An expressive color palette adds drama and personalized style to all 2012 Honda CR-V models. Twilight Blue Metallic, an all-new color, is available on all CR-V models, and sophisticated Glacier White Pearl is exclusively available on CR-V EX and EX-L models. Six CR-V colors return for 2012. All are available on all CR-V models except for Taffeta White, which is exclusive to the CR-V LX.
Side Mirrors and Expanded-View Driver's Mirror
CR-V's power side mirrors are aerodynamically optimized to reduce wind noise and minimize turbulence. The side mirrors can be manually folded in for greater convenience in tight parking situations. Side mirror housings on the CR-V LX model are black, and those on the CR-V EX and EX-L models are body color, to further compliment the overall vehicle design. The CR-V EX-L model adds heated side mirrors.
New on the 2012 CR-V is an Expanded-View Driver's Mirror. This mirror uses a flat reflective plane on the inner portion of the mirror closest to the door as required by law, while the outer portion of the mirror uses a convex element to provide a broader field of view. This adds an additional 5.5 degrees of visibility at the outer edge of the mirror's field of view, which can assist the driver in detecting other vehicles or road conditions that they might not otherwise see in their side mirror.
Interior
From a packaging standpoint, the Honda CR-V continues to offer a class-leading low cargo floor and lift over height for ease of loading along with a modest increase in passenger and cargo volume. It also benefits from a more car-like driving position compared to the previous generation CR-V. Put it all together, and the CR-V blends form and function like no other vehicle in the class.
Beyond its smart new packaging, the CR-V demonstrates new attention to the in-vehicle driving experience, with sophisticated and precise instrumentation and a full-color "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID) that offers a range of customizable features via fingertip controls on the steering wheel. A slightly lower and reconfigured seating position gives the CR-V a more carlike feel from inside the cabin, while retaining the same elevated driver vantage point that customers value in this class.
CR-V offers a variety of new standard and available technologies that are meant to enhance driving enjoyment. The CR-V's audio systems offer a new level of connectivity, led by a Pandora® internet radio interface. With an iPhone running the free Pandora app connected to the CR-V's USB port, Pandora station information appears on the color i-MID screen, and the driver can control the app with the steering-wheel mounted controls, or the touch screen navigation system (when equipped with navigation).
There's also a convenient SMS text messaging function that, when paired with a compatible phone, can read incoming texts aloud through the audio system and allow the Honda CR-V's driver to respond with any of six factory preset text messages. For 2012, the Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone interface is standard on all models, and offers intuitive hands-free calling convenience. For the first time, the CR-V now offers an available DVD Rear Entertainment System (RES), with a remote control.
Interior Packaging Concept
The CR-V has always offered a unique combination of virtues that continue to define the entry compact SUV segment: relatively small exterior dimensions for easy urban maneuvering, excellent fuel economy and a roomy, accommodating interior that offers great cargo carrying versatility. The new fourth-generation CR-V carries on in that same tradition with a newly designed interior that has a more spacious feel, more storage space and Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat that combines with a 0.8-inch lower lift-in and load floor to provide more cargo loading convenience.
Increased Visibility
The 2012 CR-V's body and glass have been completely redesigned to provide added outward visibility for the driver and passengers. To make judging the length of the vehicle easier, more of the top of the hood is now visible from the driver's viewpoint.
Control Layout
During the design of the CR-V, designers set out to create a "smart interface" between the vehicle and the driver. The goal was an intuitive layout that would require minimal driver eye movement. Key design features include large analog instrumentation complemented with a color "intelligent" Multi-Information Display (i-MID) positioned high in the central part of the instrument panel within the driver's line of sight. The final element of the CR-V's smart interface approach is its steering wheel mounted controls. By allowing the driver to operate a range of features without taking their hands off the wheel, distraction potential can be reduced in certain situations.
Instrumentation
The Honda CR-V uses clean and simple analog instrumentation with a sophisticated and technical appearance. The centrally positioned speedometer is the largest feature on the instrument panel. It is complemented by a central LED screen that is controlled using the Select/Reset knob positioned just above and to the right of the speedometer. The display provides a range of information and trip computer functions.
Progressive Instrument Illumination
The CR-V's instrument system uses progressive illumination sequence when the driver enters the vehicle. When the door is opened, the instrument brightness turns on at 10 percent. When the key is put in the ignition (encircled with an illuminated ring), the instrument illumination ramps up to 100 percent in one second. When the ignition is turned on, the illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights come on, indicating all systems are go.
Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID)
All CR-V models include a new intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) that allows for convenient, line-of-sight access to vehicle information, audio track titles, personal wallpaper and more via simple steering wheel-mounted controls and a 5-inch color screen. Positioned in the upper center portion of the instrument panel, this bright, full-TFT LCD display is easy to see and interpret. The i-MID serves as the audio system display and features on-screen icons and prompts to make navigation through a range of screens intuitive. In addition to audio information, the i-MID also includes an SMS text messaging function and a Pandora internet radio compatibility. It also displays fuel-economy information, as well as Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® information. Turn-by-turn navigation directions also appear on the i-MID on the CR-V EX-L Navi. User-support features include customizable settings and a customizable wallpaper display. Recommended wallpaper pixel dimensions are 234x480, 468x960, 702x1440 or 936x1920. The i-MID also displays warnings such as door ajar, parking brake and TPMS.
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines
All CR-V models are equipped with a rearview camera that offers multiple perspectives from behind the vehicle. The image appears on the i-MID, or on the navigation display in vehicles equipped with navigation. When in reverse, the driver can select from among three views by pushing the audio select knob, or with soft keys on the navigation screen in vehicles equipped with navigation. The primary view is "Normal View," which delivers 130-degrees of rearward visibility. Additionally, there is the "Wide View," which delivers 180-degrees of rearward visibility. Finally, the "Top Down View" generates a straight-down perspective.
Maintenance Minder Display
All CR-V models have a Maintenance Minder system that tracks service related items based on vehicle usage. The Maintenance Minder system automatically indicates when to have standard service performed based on actual driving conditions (tracked by the ECU) and minimizes the guesswork related to whether the vehicle is being used in standard or severe use conditions for maintenance interval purposes. The display indicates when to change the oil, air cleaner, transmission fluid, spark plugs or coolant, as well as when to rotate the tires. Maintenance Minder information appears in the i-MID display.
Eco Assist
All CR-V models come with Eco Assist. Located in the upper instrument panel located on either side of the speedometer, the CR-V's Eco Assist has illuminated arcs that show if the vehicle is being driven in an efficient style. The system operates in essentially the same manner as on Insight, CR-Z and Civic, in this case with white and green "coaching" bars that illuminate. A white color signifies inefficient driving, while green means a more efficient driving style is being used. The color changes gradually in response to driving style.
ECON Mode
Every 2012 CR-V is equipped with a green ECON button to the left of the steering wheel, a feature that recently appeared on the 2012 Civic. This button engages ECON mode, in which several operating characteristics of the vehicle are modified for enhancing fuel efficiency. The Drive-by-Wire throttle system provides more gradual response, and to save additional energy, the climate control's upper fan speeds are lowered incrementally and other climate control system characteristics are altered based on the conditions. See the Powertrain section for more information on ECON Mode.
Steering Wheel
The 2012 CR-V's new 3-spoke steering wheel features an expanded range of manual tilt and telescope steering wheel adjustment in order to better accommodate drivers of various sizes. All CR-V models now include audio controls on the left side of the steering wheel, with four controls arranged on one ring - rather like the four points on a compass - to simplify the layout and provide for intuitive toggling between functions. All controls are positioned ergonomically where they are easy to reach and operate. They also offer a pleasing tactile feel that reduces the need for the driver to confirm operation visually. The left-side steering wheel controls also include i-MID functionality, while cruise control buttons are positioned on the right. Bluetooth HandsFreeLink control buttons are positioned on the lower left side of the steering wheel.
Climate Control
All CR-V models provide air conditioning as standard equipment. The front climate controls on the CR-V are mounted centrally on the instrument panel for easy accessibility and feature rotary knobs for temperature settings and fan control. Push buttons allow control of airflow through the various vents inside the vehicle (i.e. defrost, heater, split level, etc.). The Honda CR-V LX and CR-V EX have a manual climate control system; the CR-V EX-L and above have an automatic dual-zone system.
The CR-V's micron air-filtration system is capable of filtering nearly 100 percent of particulates over 8 microns in size (the size of most pollen). It can also filter out approximately 40 percent of particulates down to 0.3 microns (about the size of diesel emissions). To improve cooling capacity, the high capacity condenser with integrated receiver drier runs the liquid refrigerant through a sub-cooling condenser, after the main condenser.
Interior Materials
Inside the CR-V, every tactile surface, from the interior door handles to the seat controls to the instrument panel, steering wheel, and controls are designed to be pleasing to the touch—and easy to operate. Cloth velour upholstery is standard in the CR-V LX, while the CR-V EX has upgraded fabric with a suede-like feel. The CR-V EX-L has standard leather seating surfaces.
Front Seats
For 2012, the front seats of the CR-V have been completely redesigned with a more supportive seat construction, structure and padding. The seats are now wider with more supportive side bolsters that give the seats a secure feel particularly when cornering. The driver's seat height adjustability range has been increased by 0.4-inch and the driving position now has a more car-like orientation, even though the driver's vantage point above the road and commanding view is essentially unchanged.
Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat
To enhance the CR-V's rear passenger comfort and cargo carrying versatility, the CR-V has a newly designed One-Motion 60/40 Split Rear Seat. With supportive padding, reclining seatbacks and a flat floor with plenty of legroom, the backseat offers a high level of passenger comfort. But if cargo carrying is a priority, the seats can be quickly lowered to provide a large cargo deck. Each side of the split-folding seat is operated independently via an easily accessible release handle, one on each side of the cargo area. There is also a release strap for each seat that's accessible from each rear door. A single pull on either the handle or strap stows the seat completely, by automatically tilting the seat base forward, lowering the outboard headrest and folding the seatback forward. The process only takes seconds. To put the seats up, simply raise the backrest, flip up the headrest and swing the seat base back into position.
Interior Storage
To maximize convenience and utility, the CR-V's interior has a wide range of storage features. The generously sized front console has a large 10.8-liter central storage compartment that's roomy enough to hold a typical purse or laptop, and the sliding cover keeps contents out of view. Two beverage holders and a small storage tray are positioned at the front of the console within easy reach. Compartments in the side of the console and dual storage compartments in each door panel provide additional space for small items. The front doors also include bottle holders. In the rear seating area, a flip-down center armrest includes two beverage holders.
Cargo Capability
The CR-V is designed to offer cargo capability to suit the needs of active owners. Even though it is slightly shorter bumper-to-bumper and lower in overall height, the CR-V has gained cargo space behind the rear seats (up from 35.7 cubic ft. to 37.2 cubic ft.). Total cargo volume with the seats down is now 70.9 cu-ft. compared to 72.9 cu-ft. for the previous model. The negligible decrease is attributable to the new One-Motion 60/40 Split Rear Seat design, which creates a nearly flat floor surface when folded forward.
For easier loading, the CR-V's lift-in height has been lowered by 0.8-inch. The cargo floor has also been lowered by 0.8-inch, making it among the lowest cargo floors in the class.
For maximum cargo capacity, the Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seat can be quickly lowered, creating a nearly flat load floor. The load area is sized to accept large suitcases stored vertically, four golf bags or a stroller (rear seats upright), or two mountain bikes (rear seats folded).
The ease of converting the cargo area to its maximum-possible cargo mode has improved for 2012 with a simpler one-touch fold-down mechanism for the left- and right-side rear seats. The release levers make it possible to quickly and conveniently flip and fold the rear seats forward while standing at the tailgate opening. Pulling a release first flips the seat base forward, then lowers the head restraint, and finally lowers the seatback forward.
A generously sized elastic storage net and well is located on the left side of the cargo area for holding small items securely. In addition, four "D" rings for tying down cargo are located on the cargo area floor. The front "D" rings are chromed for an attractive finished appearance.
The CR-V also includes a retractable cargo cover that can hide items stored in the cargo area behind the second-row seats. The cover and mechanism can be quickly removed and stowed on the floor. Located underneath the cargo floor is a temporary spare tire and vehicle jack.
Audio Systems
The Honda CR-V LX is equipped with a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with four speakers. The CD player can also read CD-Rs loaded with Windows Media Audio (WMA)4 or MP3 audio files. The system also includes Bluetooth®2 streaming audio and Pandora internet radio compatibility (with compatible iPhones). Audio information is displayed on the color i-MID screen positioned high in the center section of the instrument panel. An auxiliary input jack is standard, along with the USB Audio Interface that can allow an iPod, iPhone or flash drive to be connected to the system.
The system features Speed-Sensitive Volume Control (SVC). With SVC, as the vehicle speeds up and exterior noise increases, the audio system automatically raises the music's volume, and then lowers it as the vehicle slows down. If desired, SVC can be deactivated at any time.
The CR-V EX has an upgraded AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers. CR-V EX-L and CR-V EX-L Navi models provide an even more impressive 328-watt, 7-speaker premium audio system including subwoofer and XM Radio.
USB Audio Interface
A USB Audio Interface is located in the center console of all models. It can read flash drives and compatible digital music devices, such as iPods, that contain MP3 or WMA music files. It is important to note that only the iPod video, iPod nano and other 5th-generation or later iPods are compatible with this system. The iPod shuffle, mini, and older iPod models are not compatible. When an iPod is connected, the Honda logo will appear on the screen of the compatible iPod showing it is ready for use. The iPod or flash drive can then be controlled using the steering wheel-mounted or radio controls. Information such as song title, artist, album art and other information will appear on the CR-V's i-MID screen. The system will also charge the iPod while it is connected.
