We compared Honda CR-V engines, and the efficiency crown goes to…

By Farzana Chaumoo

Honda's 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC petrol engine in the Civic has impressed many and it has been rated as one of the top family hatchbacks to drive. The 1.5 in the CR-V is also said to be enjoyable in the SUV. While it does allow relaxed cruising, power needs to be summoned more frequently and can become vocal when you do. The CVT automatic is a bit smoother than the manual in this regard and proves to be less noisy too. The CVT also doesn't like to be rushed and gentle throttle inputs better suit the car’s relaxed demeanour.

 

2.0-litre Petrol

The new Honda CR-V is offered with a choice of two drivetrains. The 2.0 Comfort and 2.0 Elegance models are powered by a refined version of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine employed in the previous CR-V.

The normally aspirated unit is equipped with variable valve timing and programmed fuel injection, and has a rated maximum power output of 113 kW at 6 500 r/min, combined with a torque peak of 189 Nm at 4 300 r/min. CO2 emissions are measured at 173 g/km while fuel consumption is rated at 7.3 l/100km on a combined cycle. 

The 1997 cc engine is linked to Honda’s highly regarded Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with G-Shift control logic, which provides all the convenience of an automatic gearbox, but optimises the drive ratio for the particular driving circumstances. The gearbox also offers pre-set steps for manual selection. Drive is to the front wheels.

 

1.5-litre Petrol

The 1.5T Executive and 1.5T Exclusive models break new ground for the CR-V by offering turbocharged power for the first time. The 1498 cc turbo engine is equipped with programmed, direct fuel injection, variable valve timing to deliver 140 kW of maximum power at 5 600 r/min, together with 240 Nm of maximum torque in a broadband between 2 000 and 5 000 r/min. CO2 emissions are measured at 167 g/km while fuel consumption is rated at 7.0 l/100km on a combined cycle. 

 

Gearbox and Drivetrain

The new turbo engine is again accompanied by Honda’s CVT gearbox but is linked to an intelligent Real Time AWD system that seamlessly transfers power from the front to the rear wheels when additional traction is required.

The system has undergone significant improvements for the new CR-V, including a substantial increase in maximum rear-wheel torque delivery, and a new intelligent control system for improved overall performance, without having to wait for the front wheels to slip before proportioning torque to the rear.

The all-wheel drive system delivers the efficiency and economy of front-wheel drive on normal surfaces, but offers additional traction, composure and peace of mind when travelling on compromised surfaces such as wet roads or gravel tracks.

 

Verdict

These engines offer good performance as it has a clean pull and a strong mid-range which is typical of i-VTEC engines, making for easy commutes. Its fuel consumption figures further help its cause which is on par for SUVs this size. As you can see from above, the CR-V’s 1.5-litre engines have higher outputs and offer better performance on paper and would be most efficient here. The 1.5 is also adequate for roaming around town and on the highways and is well-suited to the CR-V. It will remain quiet on the highway and can nip through traffic with ease. However, it's important to keep in mind that real-world driving figures, as well as the heaviness of the driver's right foot, are important factors to consider in determining true efficiency. 

 

 

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