Safety tech boost for new Honda CR-V

By Phil McNamara

Motor Industry

29 August 2006 07:56

Honda has given a sneak preview of the technology bound for its all-new CRV soft-roader.

The funky new look remains under wraps for now, but we know the chassis has been equipped with adaptive cruise control (ACC) and a collision mitigation brake system (CMS). The CR-V is equipped with a radar which tracks the distance to the car in front, with two benefits. When cruise control is activated, the CR-V can trundle along the motorway, taking the strain off the driver. The system also has a big safety benefit. If you get too close to the car in front, the CMS takes action by buzzing and flashing the word brake. This works even if cruise control isn't activated. If you don't react, the CMS starts braking for you, and tightens the seatbelts to ensure front occupants are restrained in the optimum position, just in case the CR-V doesn't come to a halt in time. Expect ACC and CMS to cost around £2000. Another new development is that the CR-V will run an all-new 2.0-litre petrol engine, alongside the refined 2.2-litre diesel. The new CR-V goes on UK sale on January 1.

Honda also confirmed that the new Civic Type-R will take pride of place on its Paris 2006 show stand. The 2.0-litre hot hatch will be more refined, and Honda is also claiming more responsive but more predictable handling.

By Phil McNamara