Honda’s new CR-V is coming to the European market along with the production version of the Civic Type R.
Honda covered many bases at the Paris Motor Show, debuting the production version of the Civic Type R hatchback and the CR-V sport-utility vehicle, as well as displaying the new FCX Concept fuel-cell vehicle and announcing they will expand the hybrid lineup in 2009.
The all-new 2007 CR-V 4x4 features more car-like driving dynamics, more expressive sporty styling and an upgraded interior. In addition, the CR-V now offers two systems that are unique within the sector, advanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS), two cutting-edge technologies that deliver added driver convenience and much enhanced safety.
For the European market, the CR-V offers a new 2.0-litre petrol engine, as well as the 2.2-litre i-CTDi diesel engine which offers class-leading fuel economy of 6.5 l/100 km on the combined cycle.
The CR-V is available with an upgraded Real Time 4WD system, a sophisticated four-wheel drive system that automatically engages four-wheel drive only when required to provide the advantages of 4WD while maximizing fuel economy when four-wheel drive is not needed. The new Real Time 4WD transfers 20 percent more torque to the rear wheels quickly, while improving stability during acceleration and cornering on slippery surfaces.
Honda’s Civic Type R has been much anticipated since the debut of the Civic Type S at the London Motor Show. While it retains the level of performance of the previous Civic Type R, it gets a more refined interior and handling tuned for better predictability and responsiveness. It is powered by a 201bhp 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC with drive-by-wire throttle that delivers maximum power output at 8,000 rpm.
The Type R is a 3-door hatchback, based on the Civic 5-door hatchback which provides the ideal platform for a high-performance version. The suspension is based on the Type S and further tuned, including lowering the ride height by 15 mm, adding a quicker steering ratio and fitting 225/40 ZR 18 wheels and tyres.
The Type R features bold styling is that includes deep front spoiler with a larger air intake, triangular fog lights whose shape mirrors the large exhaust tailpipes at the rear and a body-coloured rear spoiler that splits the rear tailgate glass. The front brake callipers have Type R logos and a honeycomb mesh grille replaces the glass panel grille of the Type S. Type R will go on sale in Europe in early 2007.
Honda also displayed the FCX Concept fuel cell vehicle that looks much different than any previous fuel cell vehicle from Honda. Last week Honda demonstrated a drivable FCX Concept and announced that they plan to sell a next-generation vehicle based very closely on the FCX Concept in 2008.
The drivable FCX Concept is powered by a newly developed compact, high-efficiency Honda FC Stack which allows the vehicle to have a low floor, low step-in height, a comfortable large interior and futuristic styling.
The new FCX Concept features a vertical-flow design that allows gravity to assist in discharging the water that is produced, which is a key to high-efficiency fuel stack performance. The result is stable power generation under a broad range of conditions, and higher output from a smaller package.
Honda also announced that it will expand its hybrid lineup in 2009 with an all-new dedicated hybrid family vehicle that will be reasonably priced.
