Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[REPORT: Honda finally approves a second act for the Element]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-honda-finally-approves-a-second-act-for-the-element/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-honda-finally-approves-a-second-act-for-the-element/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/report-honda-finally-approves-a-second-act-for-the-element/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 dog-friendly Honda Element - click above for high-res image gallery

In spite of being functionally outstanding, Honda's odd looking Element crossover has never lived up to sales expectations. The funky box never approached the initial sales target of 75,000 units a year, and this year it's on track for barely more than 15,000 sales. Despite its relative commercial failure, Honda has reportedly given the green light to a second generation model. Despite a couple of modest freshenings, the Element is already seven years into its life cycle - considerably longer than typical for a Japanese branded model.

Given the slow sales, why would Honda bother with a new iteration? Honda's executive vice-president, John Mendel, has informed Automotive News that virtually all Element sales are incremental. The Element shares its platform with the much higher volume CR-V, but apparently almost no buyers cross-shop the two vehicles - Element buyers have no interest in the CR-V and vice-versa. If Honda does proceed with a new model, perhaps unique features like the recently introduced dog friendly package will be the key to increased differentiation and success.


Gallery: New York 2009: Dog Friendly Honda Element Concept


[Source: Automotive News - sub req'd]

REPORT: Honda finally approves a second act for the Element originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 honda element2009HondaElement2010 honda2010 Honda Element2010Honda2010HondaElementCR-VCRVhondahonda elementHondaElementsecond generation honda elementSecondGenerationHondaElementMon, 14 Dec 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: 2010 Honda CR-V recieves modest tweakage]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-2010-honda-cr-v-recieves-modest-tweakage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-2010-honda-cr-v-recieves-modest-tweakage/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-2010-honda-cr-v-recieves-modest-tweakage/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Honda CR-V - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Casual observers will have a difficult time distinguishing between Honda's 2009 and 2010 CR-V. Small exterior tweaks and interior upgrades top the list of changes, while underhood, Honda's cute 'ute gets another 14 horses to play with while returning slightly better fuel economy.

The CR-V's grille gets re-worked with a single chrome bar instead of two, and flows into the headlights instead of being interrupted by body-color trim. The opening below shrinks and receives a honeycomb insert instead of the horizontal slats, and below that, the rugged-looking plastic fascia is totally re-worked with less black, more paint.

From the side, the two are virtually identical, except the rear bumper, where the side markers are a bit more visible. In back, changes to the lower fascia are more discernible, with the black plastic losing some height in exchange for body-color paneling. EX and L models get upgraded to standard ten-spoke wheels instead of 2009's seven-spoke, while inside, Honda has made a few aesthetic and functionality changes including a wider center armrest, new door handle design and new fabric choices. For all the details, make the jump for Honda's press release.


Gallery: 2010 Honda CR-V

2010_honda_crv---112010_honda_crv---092010_honda_crv---152010_honda_crv---262010_honda_crv---12


[Source: Honda]

Continue reading Officially Official: 2010 Honda CR-V recieves modest tweakage

Officially Official: 2010 Honda CR-V recieves modest tweakage originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 cr-v2010 honda cr-v2010Cr-v2010HondaCr-vcr-vhondahonda cr-vhonda suvHondaCr-vHondaSuvnew cr-vNewCr-vThu, 10 Sep 2009 13:33:00 EST<![CDATA[P.S.A. - Facelifted 2010 Honda CR-V coming Sept. 17]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/p-s-a-facelifted-2010-honda-cr-v-coming-sept-17/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/p-s-a-facelifted-2010-honda-cr-v-coming-sept-17/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/24/p-s-a-facelifted-2010-honda-cr-v-coming-sept-17/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



You're excused if you look at these images and see little more than the Honda CR-V that we already know and love. According to a corner of its home-market website, the Japanese automaker is debuting what it calls the "new CR-V" on September 17th, possibly at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Already a hot perennial seller, Honda is understandably cautious to mess too much with success, though calling this updating anything other than a mid-cycle refresh is a bit of a stretch.

Subtle grille and fascia changes are about the extent of what we can make out from the limited images, leaving the CR-V a good looking sales workhorse in Honda's stable. We'll all have to hold our breath until mid-September when the whole enchilada will be revealed and we'll find out if there are changes under the skin worth talking about.

[Source: Honda Japan via Carscoop]

P.S.A. - Facelifted 2010 Honda CR-V coming Sept. 17 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CR-Vcr-v frankfurtcr-v updateCr-vFrankfurtCr-vUpdateCRVHondahonda cr-vhonda crvhonda frankfurtHondaCr-vHondaCrvHondaFrankfurtnew cr-vnew crvnew honda cr-vnew honda crvNewCr-vNewCrvNewHondaCr-vNewHondaCrvMon, 24 Aug 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/28/the-all-wheel-drive-mini-has-arrived-sorta-w-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


The Mini Tec AWD Mini - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you want a chunky Mini CUV, you don't need to wait for the Mini Countryman - you can have this Frankenstein'd love child of a vintage Mini and a Honda engine and all-wheel drive powertrain instead. The folks at Mini Tec have bolted a Honda B20 engine up front, and then they went and built a custom subframe to house all-wheel-drive gubbins blagged from a CR-V.

The result is a stripped-out, widened Mini that rockets off the line and can even do tricks in the snow on Yokohama slicks. If you're interested in buying one, you need to provide the Honda guts and Miata parts - and the Mini. The rest - the custom fabricated subframe, body panels and A-arm suspension will run you $2,695. Check out the high-res gallery below and a video after the jump.


Gallery: Mini Tec AWD Mini


[Source: Super Fast Minis via Speedhunters]

Continue reading The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO]

The all-wheel drive Mini has arrived... sorta [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketawdb20b20 engineB20EnginecooperCR-Vhatchbackhonda all-wheel driveHonda B20honda b20 engineHonda CR-VHondaAll-wheelDriveHondaB20HondaB20EngineHondaCr-vminimini coopermini tecMiniCooperMiniTectunervtecTue, 28 Jul 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2010 Honda CR-V spotted?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/spy-shots-2010-honda-cr-v-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/spy-shots-2010-honda-cr-v-spotted/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/30/spy-shots-2010-honda-cr-v-spotted/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A forum user named "Puttz" at the Temple of VTEC took a picture of a manufacturer-plated CR-V in Dublin, Ohio near Honda's Marysville plant. In addition to a set of wheels that Puttz said were reminiscent of those on an RDX sketch, the grille is bigger and wearing a lot more chrome work. On the left is the spy shot, on the right is the 2009 CR-V. As another forum user noted, the 2-piece center section is somewhat of a return to the previous generation CR-V.

Beyond that, the bumper gets reshaped with a different profile leading into the lower front fascia, and the fog light housings look to be more integrated. If this is the 2010 CR-V, it appears Honda is only making minor changes to its popular cute-ute. Hat tip to Edison

[Source: Temple of VTEC]

Spy Shots: 2010 Honda CR-V spotted? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 30 May 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-vcrossovercuvhondahonda cr-vHondaCr-vspy shotsSpyShotsSat, 30 May 2009 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda to double North American production of the CR-V]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/honda-to-double-north-american-production-of-the-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/honda-to-double-north-american-production-of-the-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/honda-to-double-north-american-production-of-the-cr-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Recently, Honda has had issues with keeping supply and demand in check with its newest products. Waiting lists for everything from the Civic Si to the Honda Fit have become bones of contention with consumers, and the recently redesigned Honda CR-V was among them earlier this year. Sales of Honda's cute 'ute have been on an upwards trajectory during 2007, with over 167,000 units sold thus far -- a 44-percent jump over the previous year. Analysts contend that buyers who used to flock to the Ford Explorer are now looking at smaller, more fuel-efficient offerings, bolstering sales of the CR-V along with Toyota's RAV4.

Honda is constantly trying to keep a balance between imported and domestically made products, so it's considering doubling the North American production of the CR-V. The move would come at a perfect time, as CR-V sales have officially eclipsed sales of the Explorer, the U.S.'s best selling SUV for 14 years.

[Source: Detroit News]

Honda to double North American production of the CR-V originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Oct 2007 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-vcrvdouble north american productionDoubleNorthAmericanProductionford explorerFordExplorerhondahonda cr-vhonda cr-v productionhonda crvhonda crv productionHondaCr-vHondaCr-vProductionHondaCrvHondaCrvProductionnorth americaNorthAmericasalesTue, 09 Oct 2007 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Audi's Q5 CUV coming to Geneva]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/audis-q5-cuv-coming-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/audis-q5-cuv-coming-to-geneva/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/15/audis-q5-cuv-coming-to-geneva/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

As Audi's relentless quest to fill every conceivable automotive niche continues, the folks of the interlocking rings plan to unveil the Q5 at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show.

According to AutoExpress, the Q5 will share its underpinnings with the recently released A5 and will draw on the styling cues forged by its big brother, the Q7 and the Cross Coupe quattro unveiled in Shanghai. Naturally, the Q5 will get Audi's trademark goatee, along with LED headlamps, all-wheel-drive and a commanding stance. Inside, Audi's entrant into the highly competitive cute 'ute segment will come complete with seating for five and the multi-rail system, originally employed in the A6 Allroad, that prevents parcels from shifting under load.

Power is expected to come in both diesel and gas-powered flavors, possibly including the 4.2-liter FSI V8. Strap a few turbos onto that mill and we may even get a RSQ5. We doubt it, if for no other reason than that badge may be a bit awkward on the boot.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Audi's Q5 CUV coming to Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2007 09:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audicr-vcrossovercrvcuvgenevahondaq5q7rav-4rav4toyotaTue, 15 May 2007 09:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Americans CRaVe the CR-V, replaces Ford Explorer as best-selling ute in U.S.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/13/americans-crave-the-cr-v-replaces-ford-explorer-as-best-selling/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/13/americans-crave-the-cr-v-replaces-ford-explorer-as-best-selling/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/13/americans-crave-the-cr-v-replaces-ford-explorer-as-best-selling/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It looks like the age of the traditional body-on-frame SUV is coming to a close for most mainstream customers. While there will continue to be a market for big SUVs like the Tahoe and Expedition for customers who actually need to haul or tow stuff, many customers in the high volume mid-sized segment are realizing they can get by with something a little smaller and lot more fuel efficient.

The Ford Explorer dominated SUV sales charts throughout the 1990s and into the first part of this decade with sales of 445,157 in 2000. In the last couple of years, however, Explorer sales have tanked seeing it drop from first to fourth on the sales charts. Last year ,sales dipped to 179, 229 and the freefall shows no signs of letting up. The numbers are down another twenty-three percent so far this year.

On the flipside, sales of the redesigned Honda CR-V are up forty-two percent so far this year and it has jumped to the number one spot on the chart followed by the Toyota RAV-4 and Ford Escape, with the new Ford Edge coming on strong as well. The CR-V is doing so well that Honda is having to consider how to increase volume to meet the demand. For the first time, the automaker has started importing extra units from Japan to supplement the main production facility in East Liberty Ohio. Ford has already announced plans to move the Explorer to a unit-body crossover platform, which can't happen soon enough. The only problem will be finding a place to fit into a lineup already filled with the Escape, Edge, Flex and Taurus X.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Americans CRaVe the CR-V, replaces Ford Explorer as best-selling ute in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 May 2007 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CR-Vexplorersalessuv salesSuvSalesSun, 13 May 2007 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Saturn Vue gets a $3k bump in the sticker]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/saturn-vue-gets-a-3k-bump-in-the-sticker/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/saturn-vue-gets-a-3k-bump-in-the-sticker/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/30/saturn-vue-gets-a-3k-bump-in-the-sticker/#comments

Well, $3,295 to be exact.

The base price of the new and greatly improved Vue will come in at $21,395 (with shipping), placing it squarely in the same pricing segment as the Honda CR-V ($21,195) and Toyota RAV4 ($21,595).

According to Robert Reuter, GM's chief engineer for compact and crossover vehicles, the price increase is justified, consider that the new model gets a larger, 169 HP 2.4-liter inline four and an automatic transmission, where before a manual used to reside. Additionally, 16-inch wheels are included, along with a bevy of standard safety equipment including ABS, collapsible pedals, side curtain airbags and stability control.

Since the new pricing puts the Vue up against some of the biggest players in the burgeoning crossover segment, it should be interesting to see how well Saturn's second highest selling model will fare when it's thrust into the marketplace.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Saturn Vue gets a $3k bump in the sticker originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Apr 2007 09:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cr-vcrvgeneral motorsGeneralMotorsgmhondarav-4rav4robert reuterRobertReutersaturntoyotavueMon, 30 Apr 2007 09:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda sends some CR-V production south of the border]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/23/honda-sends-some-cr-v-production-south-of-the-border/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/23/honda-sends-some-cr-v-production-south-of-the-border/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/23/honda-sends-some-cr-v-production-south-of-the-border/#commentsFiled under: , ,



In 2008, 50,000 CR-Vs will be cranked out of Honda's assembly plant in Guadalajara, Mexico. Currently, the plant is used to build Accord sedans, to the tune of about 30k per year, but when CR-V production begins, they'll be no more hecho en Mexico Accords finding their way north. Instead, production of Honda's midsize sedan will move to their plant in Marysville, Ohio.

The move, which reportedly cost Honda over $8 million in upgrades, is due to a high level of demand for the 'lil 'ute in the U.S. that isn't being met by the automaker's plant in East Liberty, Ohio.

Of the 50,000 CR-Vs to be produced annually, half will head into the States, while the rest will remain south of the border. The production shift will begin this fall.

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

Honda sends some CR-V production south of the border originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Mar 2007 08:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accordcr-vguadalaharahondamexicoohioproductionFri, 23 Mar 2007 08:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: 2009 Ford isosis-X]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/20/rendered-speculation-2009-ford-isosis-x/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/20/rendered-speculation-2009-ford-isosis-x/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/20/rendered-speculation-2009-ford-isosis-x/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Some cloaked shots of the production version of Ford's newest cute ute have surfaced. First shown as the iosis-X concept in Paris, this C-segment crossover features that same "kinetic design language" we see in Ford of Europe's S-MAX and C-MAX, in a size that slots between the two. This small crossover would compete head-to-head with the Toyota RAV-4 and Honda CR-V, among others.

Just when we thought the CUV/SUV market couldn't get any more crowded, this would be the eleventieth UV in the Ford lineup alone. But it's a looker, this one. Using spy photos of a heavily disguised prototype, the artist created a rendering that looks athletic and stylish but functional, sort of like a scaled down Mazda CX-7, which is a good thing. Our previous spy shots of this productionized iosis-X looked markedly different, but it's likely the older pics were of a test mule. As this vehicle gets closer to it's early 2008 launch and Frankfurt debut, the shape seems to be taking its final, more stylish form.

[Source: drive.com.au]

Spy Shots: 2009 Ford isosis-X originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Mar 2007 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AustraliaCR-Vcute uteCuteUteCX-7Foord CUVFoordCuvFord of EuropeFordOfEuropeiosis XIosisXkinetic design languageKineticDesignLanguageRAV 4Rav4Tue, 20 Mar 2007 12:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Honda CR-V Aero Performance Pack: Factory-direct visual punch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/09/honda-cr-v-aero-performance-pack-factory-direct-visual-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/09/honda-cr-v-aero-performance-pack-factory-direct-visual-punch/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/09/honda-cr-v-aero-performance-pack-factory-direct-visual-punch/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for hi-res gallery

Honda's new CR-V has been growing on us ever since it came out. It's by no means a pretty vehicle, but you have to give it credit for wearing its quirkiness with pride. Considering how similar some of the other small CUVs on the market look (think RAV4, Santa Fe), the choice to go with unique styling may pay dividends long-term, as you'll always be able to pick the Honda out from the crowd. (Well, that and the fact the "H" badge on the grille speaks more powerfully to some buyers than the car's styling itself.)

Things got better (a lot better) when Mugen released its full suite of aftermarket bits for the CR-V, and now Honda's getting into the game with its own factory sport kit. It consists of new grille inserts, aero bumper covers, running boards, a roof spoiler, sport suspension and a set of 19" five-spoke alloys. The result? Well, it's pretty cool, and between this and the Mugen kit, it's clear that the new CR-V can have a lot more curb appeal if you're willing to spend some additional cash.

[Source: Honda via Carscoop]

Gallery: Honda CR-V Aero Performance Pack

Honda CR-V Aero Performance Pack: Factory-direct visual punch originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Mar 2007 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aero kitAero performance PackAeroKitAeroPerformancePackcr-vFri, 09 Mar 2007 11:02:00 EST<![CDATA[SEMA: Honda cleans up its CUV with CR-V Sport Concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/02/sema-honda-cleans-up-its-cuv-with-cr-v-sport-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/02/sema-honda-cleans-up-its-cuv-with-cr-v-sport-concept/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/02/sema-honda-cleans-up-its-cuv-with-cr-v-sport-concept/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



When the CR-V first debuted we thought it would honestly be the ugliest vehicle of the year. Surprisingly, it's growing on us (except that damn D-pillar!), and the CR-V Sport Concept is the best we've seen it look to date. Of course, it helps that Honda unloaded the entire contents of itsonda Access accessories catalogue on the CUV, adding new front and rear bumpers, attractive 19-inch wheels and a suspension package that lowers the vehicle. Still, it shows the CR-V has a bit of potential, though it won't be winning our beauty pageant this year.

Check out more angles of the CR-V Sport Concept after the jump and see if you agree.

Continue reading SEMA: Honda cleans up its CUV with CR-V Sport Concept

SEMA: Honda cleans up its CUV with CR-V Sport Concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Nov 2006 17:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CR-VCR-V Sport ConceptCr-vSportConceptHonda AccessHondaAccessThu, 02 Nov 2006 17:09:00 EST<![CDATA[The Mugen CR-V roadstar adds edge to Honda's SUV]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/the-mugen-cr-v-roadstar-adds-edge-to-hondas-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/the-mugen-cr-v-roadstar-adds-edge-to-hondas-suv/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/12/the-mugen-cr-v-roadstar-adds-edge-to-hondas-suv/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Some of us have bemoaned the new styling of the Honda CR-V, which is why it's no surprise that the aftermarket has already stepped up to address our concerns. When you think of Honda tuning, you should think of Mugen (if you play Gran Turismo at all), and it's no surprise this Japanese tuning house is the first one to try and beat the ugly out of the new CR-V. Mugen today announced a whole catalogue of aftermarket appearance parts for the new CR-V that includes a front spoiler with integrated day/night lamps, a sports grille, a lower rear spoiler that integrates dual, center-mounted exhaust tips (!), a wing spoiler (pass, too much) and Mugen 19-inch TT wheels. The total effect is shocking and surely even more polarizing than an unadorned CR-V, but the consensus around the Autoblog office is positive. Now if Mugen could just fix that D-pillar we'd be happy.

More pictures can be found after the jump.

[Source: Mugen via CarScoop]

Continue reading The Mugen CR-V roadstar adds edge to Honda's SUV

The Mugen CR-V roadstar adds edge to Honda's SUV originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Oct 2006 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aftermarketcr-vhondamugentunertuningThu, 12 Oct 2006 15:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Do you CRaVe the new CR-V?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/do-you-crave-the-new-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/do-you-crave-the-new-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/do-you-crave-the-new-cr-v/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Honda's new CR-V is all about satisfying your CRaVings, or so we're all about to be told. Rubin Postaer & Associates (RPA) is behind the new sport ute's $50 million advertising push, which lauches September 28. The ads draw upon the animation and fun reminiscent of Civic and Fit commercials, showing how the CR-V can help satisfy cravings for things like coffee and the beach.

In the beach commercial, the CR-V "tans" into each of its various available exterior colors. While in the coffee commercial, the CR-V becomes a big mug of coffee. Yum. The commercials end with the tagline, "Something new to crave. Presenting the all-new CR-V from Honda."

Look for Honda's "CRaVe" campaign in broadcast commercials, billboards, in movie theaters and on Honda's web site near the end of the month. You have until then to develop a CRaVing.

[Source: Automotive News]

Do you CRaVe the new CR-V? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingCR-VcravehondamarketingRAV4Fri, 01 Sep 2006 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: 2007 Honda CR-V]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/officially-official-2007-honda-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/officially-official-2007-honda-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/01/officially-official-2007-honda-cr-v/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


UPDATE 1: U.S. specs released (see below)


So the embargo has been officially lifted on Honda's new products for 2007 and Honda Motor Europe has released details of the new CR-V, which, except for choice of engines, should be identical to the U.S. model. Before we begin, we thought you should know that Honda refers to the CR-V's softer side window outline as a "coupe-like tapering side window profile". Whatev, on with the deets.

The new CR-V is powered by a 166-horsepower inline four generating 161 ft-lbs. of torque. The only thing swapping cogs on the U.S. version will be a standard five-speed automatic. The ute is lower to the ground by 1.37 inches and wider than its predecessor by 1.18 inches, which, along with suspension and chassis tweaks, should make the CR-V handle even more like a car. Honda has also revised its Real Time 4WD system, which can now send 20% more torque to the rear wheels if slip is detected.

We've already talked our tongue's off about the new CR-V's appearance, so we'll just add that the rear-mounted spare tire has been moved to beneath the rear cargo floor (yay!) to make room for a rear liftgate that now opens vertically.

Some of the more advanced technology on the new CR-V that might give it an edge over the competition includes a radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control system coupled with a Collision Mitigation Braking System. The first can maintain a set distance between the CR-V and a car ahead when cruising, while the second will warn the driver of an impending collision before actively applying the brakes itself. The new CR-V also has Active Front Lighting that turns the HID lamps along with the vehicle. It's impressive to find these features on a small SUV, as less than a year ago they were only available on premium luxury cars.

Honda Motor Europe's full press release can be found after the jump, along with 40 pics of the new CR-V.

[Source: Honda]

UPDATE: First thing we noticed is that the Adaptive Cruise Control, Collision Mitigation Braking System and Active Front Lighting are not mentioned at all in the U.S. press release, leading us to the conclusion that those high-end options will not be available here. Regardless, the CR-V will be available in the U.S. in three trim levels - LX, EX and upscale EX-L. Above the standard features included on the LX, the EX gets a one-touch power moonroof, chrome grille, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, the dual-deck cargo shelf, a six-disc CD stereo and 17-inch alloy wheels. The EX-L adds leather trim, heated front seats, body-colored heated side mirrors and door handles, XM satellite radio, and a subwoofer. A satellite navigation system with rearview camera is only available on the CR-V EX-L. EPA estimated mileage will be 23/30 mpg on the CR-V LX 2WD model. Honda will be announcing the CR-V's price at a later date. Check out the full U.S. press release after the jump.

Continue reading Officially Official: 2007 Honda CR-V

Officially Official: 2007 Honda CR-V originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Sep 2006 11:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CR-VHonda Motor EuropeHondaMotorEuropeofficial releaseOfficialReleaseFri, 01 Sep 2006 11:14:00 EST<![CDATA[So who broke Honda's embargo?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/so-who-broke-honda-s-embargo/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/so-who-broke-honda-s-embargo/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/so-who-broke-honda-s-embargo/#commentsFiled under:

Though Honda did have an embargo on the release of the CR-V until September 1st, some have made the valid point that Motor Trend technically broke the embargo first when copies of its October 2006 issue featuring an article on the 2007 Honda CR-V hit mailboxes this past week. At that point, AutoWeek needed only to "bend the rules" in order to justify publishing photos and information on the web that had already reached the eyes of readers thanks to Motor Trend.

Motor Trend, however, didn't intentionally release its October issue early to get the scoop on the rest of us. The magazine likely has had Honda's press material in hand for weeks and weeks. It produced the October issue, which technically is supposed to be released on September 1st, and sent it out. Having worked for a print mag, I can tell you that once your issue has been sent out you have no control over when it arrives. Would Motor Trend have sent out its October issue early just to be the first with news of the new CR-V? Doubtful. We're sure the CR-V's nice and all, but it didn't even get a mention on MT's cover so why would the magazine advance its production schedule for it?

Also, MT didn't publish any material on the 2007 Acura MD-X, nor did any other outlet of which we're aware, yet AutoWeek published material on that vehicle, too. We're assuming that the MD-X was, indeed, part of Honda's embargo along with the new CR-V and Civic Si sedan. If so, while AutoWeek might be able to argue it wasn't the first (nor the third) to publish embargoed material on the new CR-V, it can't make the same argument for the new MDX. So what justification did AutoWeek have for breaking the embargo on the MD-X if it hadn't yet appeared anywhere else first?

Continue reading So who broke Honda's embargo?

So who broke Honda's embargo? originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Aug 2006 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoWeekCR-VembargoMD-XMotor TrendMotorTrendSat, 26 Aug 2006 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Premature release: 2007 Honda CR-V debuts a bit early]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/premature-release-2007-honda-cr-v-debuts-a-bit-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/premature-release-2007-honda-cr-v-debuts-a-bit-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/26/premature-release-2007-honda-cr-v-debuts-a-bit-early/#commentsFiled under: , ,



AutoWeek decided to pull back the curtain early on the 2007 Honda CR-V and publish pictures and details of the new CUV that the automaker had placed on embargo until September 1st. We've seen this happen so many times before, and not just by small blogs and websites who don't know any better, but by big media outlets like AutoWeek, that at this point we find it hard to believe they did it without permission directly from Honda. Automakers are getting more and more savvy about building buzz that it just wouldn't surprise us, that's all. We had a call into Honda this afternoon as well, and we weren't that surprised when no one called back.

Anyway, official shots of the CR-V had already been leaked onto the internet about five days ago, and undisguised spy shots have been floating around for even longer, so the new CR-V's skin is anything but surprising at this point. The gaping void below the front grille and the severely sloping outline of the rear side windows are still polarizing design elements whose acceptance will now be at the mercy of the market.

What we do know now that we didn't before is that the CR-V will have a base price of $21,400 when it goes on sale in October. Option up the CR-V with a satellite navigation system and 270-watt stereo and the sticker will approach $28,000. The sole powerplant remains Honda's 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder, albeit upgraded for 2007 to produce an additional 10 horsepower (now 166 horsepower/161 ft-lbs. of torque), and no manual will be offered this time around, just a five-speed automatic.

Though the CR-V's styling hasn't made the best first impression on us, we will say that Honda could be making a very shrewd move by not following the trend of dropping a powerful V6 into its tiniest of utes. The CR-V's 2.4-liter four will no doubt produce commendable gas mileage and operate at the typical level of Honda four-cylinder refinement. That combination could lead to big sales for the CR-V in these lean and green times.

(Interior shot can be found after the jump)

[Source: AutoWeek]

Continue reading Premature release: 2007 Honda CR-V debuts a bit early

Premature release: 2007 Honda CR-V debuts a bit early originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Aug 2006 01:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoWeekCR-VembargoSat, 26 Aug 2006 01:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Shady Shots: 2007 Honda CR-V]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/shady-shots-2007-honda-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/shady-shots-2007-honda-cr-v/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/21/shady-shots-2007-honda-cr-v/#commentsFiled under: ,



These lo-rez shots of the new, 2007 Honda CR-V came floating across the web last night and, although their origin is a mystery, it doesn't take much imagination to see these images splattered across a brochure at your local dealership.

This newest CR-V shares a platform with its up-market sibling the Acura RDX and many of the styling cues are reminiscent of their mutual lineage. Although we've already shown you an uncamouflaged spy shot and our commenters have passed judgment on the CR-V's newly developed dental problems, a few other design cues are of note. The floor-to-ceiling taillights are an obvious carryover from previous generations, with a little Volvo wagon thrown in for good measure. The steeply descending rear-side window may be an attempt at smooth styling, but the resulting pillar will require serious body contortions to check the blind spot. The chrome surrounds, although a nice touch, seem to add a level of flash that just doesn't seem to fit a mild-mannered cute 'ute.

The interior, in true Honda fashion, is an homage to functionality and bears a similarity to the new Civic's dash and instruments, sans the top mounted speedo. Thankfully, and in no small part to customer complaints, the transmission selector has been moved from its odd dashboard mounting to a more traditional home below the air and radio controls.

We'll hold off on making further judgments until the 'official' shots are released and if Honda decides to drop off a CR-V in the Autoblog Garage, we'd gladly take it for a spin.

Continue reading Shady Shots: 2007 Honda CR-V

Shady Shots: 2007 Honda CR-V originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Aug 2006 07:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acura rdxAcuraRdxcr-vhondatoyota rav4ToyotaRav4Mon, 21 Aug 2006 07:08:00 EST<![CDATA[BMW X1 to take on the VW Tiguan]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/20/bmw-x1-to-take-on-vw-tiguan/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/20/bmw-x1-to-take-on-vw-tiguan/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/20/bmw-x1-to-take-on-vw-tiguan/#commentsFiled under: ,



Germany's own Autobild magazine printed the above rendering of what may be BMW's attempt at crashing the ever-competitive small SUV segment. Although Toyota and Honda have been the biggest players over the past several years, Volkswagen obviously saw a niche that needed to be filled with the upcoming Tiguan and it seems that BMW may follow suit with their own luxury SAV.

Predictably named the X1, the new soft-roader will stretch an estimated 170 inches, which compared to its larger sibling the X3, comes in about 10 inches shorter overall. Engine choices are open to speculation, but the smart money is on one of BMW's 3-liter inline sixes, with the possibility of upgrading to their new, turbocharged mill, found in the new 335i.

Whether a business case can be made for the new 'ute is a decision best left to the bean counters at BMW. We just hope that if the X1 finds its way into production, it can compete with the stalwarts of the genre.

BMW X1 to take on the VW Tiguan originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Aug 2006 08:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwcr-vcrvrav4x1x3Sun, 20 Aug 2006 08:05:00 EST