Honda has confirmed its new CR-V RS e:HEV AWD retails for R949 900, which is R91 400 less than the model it replaces. The announcement comes as the CR-V enters its next chapter in South Africa, following the model's 30th anniversary last year. The new derivative is the first CR-V offered locally with hybrid power and comes with all-wheel drive as standard.
The CR-V was launched in Japan in 1995 and has since been sold in around 150 countries. Cumulative sales passed 5-million in 2011, 10 million in 2018 and 15-million in August 2025. It has remained Honda's best-selling car worldwide over the past decade.
The hybrid system pairs a 2,0-litre direct-injection Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The engine produces 106 kW and 189 Nm, while the electric motors deliver 135 kW and 335 Nm. Honda says this represents a step up in performance and refinement over the outgoing 1,5-litre turbo model.
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Unlike some hybrids, the e:HEV system does not combine engine and motor power through a planetary gearset. It consists of a traction motor connected directly to the driveshaft, a generator motor connected to the engine, the petrol engine, a lock-up clutch and a power control unit with battery.
The traction motor drives the wheels in most everyday conditions and recovers energy when slowing down. The engine primarily generates electricity, but at cruising speeds the lock-up clutch connects it directly to the wheels through a fixed ratio.
The system switches automatically between three modes. In EV Drive, the CR-V runs on the traction motor alone with the engine off. In Hybrid Drive, the engine drives the generator motor to supply electricity to the traction motor, with the battery providing additional power under acceleration.
In Engine Drive, the lock-up clutch engages at steady highway speeds so the engine drives the wheels directly, with the traction motor able to add power for overtaking. Regenerative braking captures energy that would otherwise be lost as heat.
The e:CVT has no conventional multi-speed gearbox, belts or pulleys. Honda says this reduces friction losses and provides smooth acceleration.
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All-wheel drive is standard on the new model. The electronically controlled Real Time AWD system sends torque to the rear wheels before slip occurs, such as when pulling away or climbing a hill. It also redistributes torque between the front and rear axles through corners. Combined with the instant torque of the electric traction motor, Honda says this gives the CR-V confident traction on wet tar, gravel roads and steep driveways.
The cabin returns to a five-seat layout, restoring boot space and everyday practicality. RS specification includes gloss-black bumper accents, dual exhaust outlets, RS-style leather upholstery and white ambient lighting. A panoramic sunroof is fitted. Honda says noise, vibration and harshness suppression has been improved.
Technology includes a head-up display, LaneWatch camera, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a 10,2-inch TFT information display, wireless phone charging and USB-C connectivity. The Honda SENSING driver-assist suite includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation and the Collision Mitigation Braking System.
The service plan covers five years or 90 000 km with intervals of 15 000 km. The warranty covers five years or 200 000 km, while the hybrid system carries an eight-year or 200 000 km warranty. Roadside assistance is provided for three years.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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