Building on its reputation as a pioneer and class leader in the entry-level sport utility vehicle segment, the Honda CR-V is poised to raise the bar again.
Scheduled to go on-sale November 15, an all-new Honda CR-V emerges for 2002 with a new chassis, body, engine and interior that deliver impressive amounts of functionality, refinement, performance and safety. The new CR-V elevates Honda value to a new level with more standard features, more power, the latest enhanced safety technology and incredible amounts of all-around utility for an entry-level SUV. Inside, the CR-V seats five passengers comfortably in a quieter cabin with significantly increased interior volume and more standard luxury features.
The 2002 CR-V is powered by an all-new 2.4-liter, 16-valve, dual overhead cam 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine. Representing the cutting edge of Honda's famed engine technology, the i-VTEC system (the "i" stands for "intelligent") combines Honda's patented VTEC system with Variable Timing Control (VTC) to produce 160-horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque - an increase of 10 percent more horsepower and 22 percent more torque compared to the 2001 model.
Additionally, low- and mid-range torque have substantially increased to deliver better overall acceleration. Even with the increased power output of the i-VTEC engine, fuel economy has improved to an estimated 22/26 mph city/hwy. All 2002 CR-Vs are certified to meet the new LEV-2 emission standards.
The interior is designed for maximum adaptability to meet people-hauling or cargo needs. The designers and engineers went to great lengths to introduce some exciting new features that are truly innovative to this class of vehicle - or any vehicle for that matter. Vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission have an instrument panel mounted gear selector (manual transmission CR-V models have the gear shifter positioned on the floor). The parking brake is smartly integrated into the instrument panel to provide extra room between the front seats.
More innovation can be found in the exclusive fold-and-tumble rear seat that adds a new element of convenience to accessing the vast 72.0 cu. ft. of cargo area. The CR-V now accommodates two fully assembled, full-size mountain bikes with ease - a feat that few entry SUVs can accomplish even when the rear seats are completely removed. The unique reclining 60/40 rear seat moves independently on tracks up to 6.7 inches forward and aft, and features a center armrest with drink holders. All rear passengers have three-point seat belts and headrests. Front and rear passengers enjoy increased shoulder and hip room, and the seat size has increased as well. A moonroof comes standard on the CR-V EX - a completely new feature for 2002. Overall, the interior volume has grown to 139.5 cu. ft., an increase of 11.9 cu. ft. Meanwhile, the exterior dimensions have increased barely an inch.
Honda engineers developed a new chassis for the 2002 CR-V engineered to increase torsional rigidity by 50 percent and bending rigidity by 30 percent along with enhanced safety and efficient packaging. The new CR-V platform incorporates a new 4-wheel independent suspension system. Up front, the CR-V features a Toe Control Link MacPherson Strut suspension for outstanding handling, ride and packaging. In the rear, the CR-V is equipped with a reactive compact double-wishbone suspension that helps provide additional cargo space.
The 2002 CR-V uses the latest enhanced safety technology from Honda with advanced dual-stage driver's and front passenger's airbags, standard side airbags on EX (available on LX), front seatbelts with load limiters and buckle pre-tensioners. For added safety, the lower front side frame and lower bumper-beam have been specially engineered to engage the structural elements of cars, trucks and SUVs in the event of a crash.
The 2002 CR-V is available in LX, LX 4WD and EX 4WD trims, all well-equipped with comfort and convenience features. All CR-Vs feature dual power mirrors, intermittent front and rear window wipers and washers, air conditioning with Micron Air-Filtration, power windows with auto down and up driver's window, power door locks, floormats, an Immobilizer anti-theft system, cruise control, two-texture seating surfaces, a sunglasses holder, and a front driver and passenger side armrest (on automatic models). The CR-V in LX trim provides an AM/FM/cassette/CD player with four speakers. The EX trim adds standard Real Time™ 4WD, AM/FM/cassette/6-CD changer with six speakers, a power moonroof and rear privacy glass. New colors for the 2002 CR-V include a new Saddle interior color scheme, and on the exterior: Eternal Blue Pearl, Chianti Red and Mojave Mist Metallic.