Honda CR-V’s RS e:HEV hybrid literally goes the distance

On a full tank, the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV—the wildly popular SUV’s new hybrid version—took us from Timog Avenue in Quezon City to Pantar Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan, via Manaoag and Dagupan. And then all the way back.

The top-of-the-line crossover, whose previous iterations have captivated Filipino car owners for three decades, has plenty more to offer. But fuel efficiency stood out the most, especially considering today’s fuel prices.

It has different driving modes, but this writer chose to stay in “Normal” throughout, resisting the temptation to go full speed on the open stretches of SCTEX and TPLEX.

By the way, the speedometer’s digital display projects onto the windshield, creating a holographic heads-up effect. It’s a glimpse into the future—one where windshields might eventually replace infotainment screens altogether.

 

 

But no, the new Honda CR-V RS e:HEV isn’t just about being high-tech. It’s got everything: collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, a blind spot information system, and a rear cross-traffic monitor—all standard on the dash.

Under the hood, it packs a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, powered by a high-voltage battery. It produces 204 horsepower and 335 Newton-meters of torque.

Oh, and it also comes with a power moonroof, 19-inch black alloy wheels, rain-sensing wipers, and running LED lights.

But one thing it doesn’t have? A spare tire.

Wait, what?

Instead of tucking one away in the undercarriage, that space is actually home to the battery. But don’t panic just yet—if you ever find yourself in a pinch, there’s a repair kit and an inflator on deck to save the day.

And wouldn’t you know it—Murphy’s Law struck just before the last gas station on NLEX near Pulilan. The Tire Pressure Monitoring System flashed a warning, and sure enough, a round screw was embedded in the rear left tire.

Rather than fumbling with the repair kit, pulling the screw, and injecting the sealant myself, I decided to top up the pressure and head to the nearest exit to get the tire vulcanized the old-school way.

Other than that, driving the hybrid CR-V was a breeze. The handling felt even sharper than Honda’s already impressive standard.

It responded quickly and effortlessly. Navigating provincial highways crowded with tricycles hogging the fast lane? No sweat. The elbow turns on the steep Bani-Alaminos highway? Buttery smooth.

 For years, the Honda CR-V has been one of the country’s most well-loved SUVs, competing with the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, and Subaru Forester.

These compact SUVs are stylish, versatile, sporty, and symbolic of the middle class—the ultimate choice for those speeding up the corporate ladder.

But that would be undermining their true worth. And in the case of the CR-V—especially its top-spec RS e:HEV—that would be a massive understatement.

Honda has redefined the CR-V with its sixth-generation model. It kept its subdued style, steering clear of the flashier aesthetics seen in some spunky Chinese brands.

The changes? More refined than radical: a larger honeycomb grille, a prominent Honda emblem—superimposed on a green badge to signify its EV/hybrid status. That, along with the green plate numbers, means no coding days.

The side profile is sleek, with clean, defined lines, giving it a sharp yet understated stance that blends seamlessly with other cross-SUVs on the road. The rear? Less boxy than previous versions, yet exuding class with its lean, minimalist design.

For those in search of a fuel-efficient, tech-packed, and stylish SUV, the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV is a game-changer. Whether you’re cruising through the city or conquering the open highway, this hybrid delivers the best of both worlds—power and economy, all in one impressive package. — BM, GMA Integrated News