Mk3 CR-V

HONDA released a slightly smaller, yet more space efficient, CR-V in early 2007.

Designed to feel more upmarket, the body relinquished the boxy off-road appearance of old for a swoopier, more European design.

Honda also strove to make the CR-V more sedan-like to drive, so the third-generation Honda compact SUV retained much of the drivetrain and MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension set-up of its predecessor, but with added detailed improvements.

Making things quieter were also priorities for Honda’s engineers.

Power came courtesy of a 125kW/118Nm 2.4-litre twin-cam i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual gearbox.

As before, Honda’s part-time Real Time 4WD system, driving the front wheels until a slipping wheel results in up to 50 per cent of torque to be transmitted rear wards, has been retained.

Three models were released at launch – the base, Sport and new Luxury, with the latter including leather upholstery, a sunroof and parking radar. All models are equipped with VSA stability control – a first for the series.

Still sporting five seats, the CR-V lost its trademark picnic table and fiddly side-opening tailgate, for a conventional lift-up rear door.

In February 2010, Honda Australia ushered in the facelifted version of its CR-V compact SUV, complete with price savings ranging between $2000 and $3500.

New standard equipment included the fitment of full-length side curtain airbags across the range.

Further improvements were to noise, vibration and harshness insulation, retuned suspension geometry and bushings to improve ride and handling and the addition of automatic headlights and wipers on the Luxury flagship.

Inside, the updated CR-V offered new door-handles, interior surfaces, trim fabrics and plastics to create a more premium impression, while a new interior colour replaced the Ivory scheme of the outgoing CR-V cabin.

The ‘Active’ pack comprised Bluetooth connectivity, side steps, roof racks, ‘Deluxe’ floor mats, a cargo protection tray, chromed exhaust outlet, side window visors, door sill garnishes and a dust/pollen filter, while the ‘Modulo Sports’ pack included side steps, front and rear skid plates, a tailgate spoiler, unique grille, chromed exhaust outlet and chromed mirror scalps.

Six colour choices were offered, following the addition of the new ‘Urban Titanium’ and ‘Habenero Red’ hues.