Motoring News

HONDA CR-V VTi-L7 FWD

Published

2 years ago

2 September 2022

JeffG

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HONDA CR-V VTi-L7 FWD

By CHRIS RILEY

CR-V . . . if it ain’t busted don’t fix it.

It was a case of Deja-vu.

Subtle styling changes, especially those at the front, give the Honda CR-V a more aggressive look. But inside it all looks so familiar – same layout, same instruments and same infotainment screen.

Prices for CR-V start at $35,300 for the 2.0-litre Vi. The rest of the range gets a more powerful 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine, starting at $38,300 for the VTi or $40,300 for the VTi-7 with seven seats.

Then there’s the VTi-X at $41,200, followed by the subject of our test, the seven-seat VTi-L7 – for $48,700. But then you have to factor in all-wheel drive, with two all-wheel drive models: VTi-L at $45,500 or the VT-LX at $53,200.

STYLING

The biggest changes are at the front of the car with its blacked-out grille and broader, more aggressive styling. The rear lights look the same but the rear bumper and apron have been redesigned, with oval tailpipes this time, and there’s a new wheel design that looks suspiciously like the previous one.

All models get LED lights front and back, LED fog lights, as well as LED daytime running lights, with ambient lighting inside.

INTERIOR

Inside it all looks pretty much the same, apart from wireless charge pad.

Standard kit in the VTi L7 includes leather trim, dual zone climate control with rear air vents (including vents for the third row).

The front seats are also heated and the driver’s seat has eight-way power adjustment with two seat memories.

Other features include smart keyless entry with push button start, automatic walk-away door locking; hands-free power tailgate; electric parking brake; 10 cup or bottle holders; auto lights and wipers; front and rear parking sensors; active cornering lights; auto headlights with high beam support and a panoramic sunroof.

ENGINES / TRANSMISSIONS

The 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine produces 140 kW of power at 5600 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 2000 to 5000 rpm.

It’s paired with a CVT-style continuously variable transmission with paddle shifters, and drive to the front wheels.

INFOTAINMENT

Infotainment consists of a 7.0-inch touchscreen, eight-speaker audio, active noise control, built-in satnav, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, AM/FM radio, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a wireless phone charger.

There’s also one 12-volt outlet in the centre console and four USB ports. Oddly, although the VTi L7 gets built-in satnav, DAB digital radio is absent for some reason.

SAFETY

Safety is rated at five stars and extends to six airbags (including full length curtains), driver attention monitor, LaneWatch passenger side camera, plus a multi-angle reversing camera with guidelines and three modes: normal, wide, top-down.

Child restraint anchorages consist of three top tethers, two boot floor tethers and two IsoFix points.

The Honda sensing safety system comprises Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow; Forward Collision Warning; Collision Mitigation Braking System; Lane Departure Warning; Road Departure Mitigation System and Lane Keeping Assist System.

DRIVING

The cabin is roomy, comfortable and quiet, and the engine doesn’t make its presence known unless you really get up it.

One of the big drawcards of the CR-V and Hondas in general is the well sorted ergonomics of the cabin, with its large, easy to read and operate controls. The central touchscreen, although it looks huge, is mainly framework, disguising a now smallish 7.0-inch display.

The turbo-petrol engine provides plenty of punch and a wide spread of torque, delivered from a low 2000 revs makes it an easy car to drive. car. But as we discovered previously, to harness the full potential of the engine, a firm right foot is required.

Ride quality is middle of the road and perhaps a little too soft, with too much body roll for our liking. But in reality, who is going to start chucking it around.

Steering is light and the brakes overly sensitive.

In a seven-seater, you’ll like the “conversation” mirror too, which enables the driver to see those in the back. Though it’s potentially dangerous if the driver takes their attention off the road to look in the mirror.

In a vehicle that is a little over 4.6 metres in length, the two third-row seats are suitable for small children only.

Trailer Stability Assist is standard and the Honda CR-V can tow a 1500kg braked trailer.

Rated at 7.3L/100km, the CVT really does what it is supposed to do, finding the optimal point between power and economy. We in fact got the claimed 7.3 L/100km from the 57-litre tank after 665km of mixed driving, broken by a bout of Covid19.

SUMMING UP

Sure, CR-V hasn’t changed much, but there’s no point in making change just for the sake of change. As the old saying goes, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.

The CR-V ticks a lot of boxes and does what it does very well, with little fuss, and that’s really all you want from a car. Apart from some minor cosmetic changes, the main difference is in the addition of the Honda Sensing safety system which also brings adaptive cruise control.

Honda CR-V is covered by a 5-year unlimited kilometre warranty and 5-year roadside assistance, with service due every 10,000km or 12 months.

RATINGS:

Looks: 7.5/10

Performance: 7.5/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 8/10

Comfort: 7.5/10

Tech: 7.5/10

Value: 8/10

Overall: 7.8/10

AT A GLANCE

MODEL RANGE:

CR-V 2.0 Vi 2WD: $35,300

CR-V 1.5 VTi 2WD: $38,300

CR-V 1.5 VTi 7 2WD: $40,300

CR-V 1.5 VTi X 2WD: $41,200

CR-V 1.5 VTi L7 2WD: $48,700

CR-V 1.5 VTi L AWD: $45,500

CR-V 1.5 VTi LX AWD: $53,200

Note: These prices do not include government or dealer delivery charges. Contact your local Honda dealer for drive-away prices.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Honda CR-V VTi L7 seven-seat 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol five-door wagon

ENGINE:

Capacity: 1.498 litres

Configuration: Four cylinders in line

Maximum Power: 140 kW @ 5600 rpm

Maximum Torque: 240 Nm @ 2000-5000 rpm

Fuel Type: Standard unleaded petrol

Combined Fuel Cycle (ADR 81/02): 7.3 L/100km

CO2 Emissions: 166 g/km

DRIVELINE:

Continuously variable transmission, front wheel-drive

DIMENSIONS, WEIGHT AND CAPACITIES:

Length: 4635 mm

Wheelbase: 2660 mm

Width: 1855 mm

Height: 1679 mm

Turning Circle: 11.0 metres

Kerb Mass: 1642 kg

Fuel Tank Capacity: 57 litres

BRAKES:

Front: Ventilated disc

Rear: Solid disc

STANDARD WARRANTY:

Five years / unlimited kilometres

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Local News

Electric 2025 Ford Capri SUV Officially Revealed

Published

2 days ago

25 July 2024

Liam

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Electric 2025 Ford Capri SUV Officially Revealed

By Jeff Gibbs

Following the path of the Mustang, Ford has reimagined another iconic nameplate with the unveiling of the all-new 2025 Ford Capri as a battery-electric crossover. After images were leaked earlier this week, the Capri EV has been officially introduced in Europe and is set to arrive in markets such as the UK in the final quarter of this year.

Although already ruled out for Australia, the new Ford Capri EV revives the nameplate that was synonymous with Ford of Europe from 1969 to 1986 as a fast two-door coupe.

The decision to use the Capri name for a battery-electric SUV has sparked controversy among Ford enthusiasts, similar to the reaction received by the Mustang Mach-E. Critics argue that the new Capri is neither a true sports car nor a traditional Ford, largely because it is built on the Volkswagen Group’s MEB electric car architecture, closely related to the Volkswagen ID.5, which is due for release in Australia soon.

The Capri EV measures 4634mm in length, 2063mm in width, and stands 1626mm tall, sharing a similar footprint with the VW ID.5. It weighs between 2023kg and 2115kg, depending on the variant. Departing from the original Capri’s two-door and roadster roots, the new model resembles a high-riding fastback sedan, akin to the current Polestar 2, rather than a typical coupe-style SUV.

Electric 2025 Ford Capri SUV Interior

Design elements honouring the Capri legacy include a black front fascia reminiscent of the original Capri’s grille, headlights and daytime running lights evoking the Mk1 Capri’s quad-lamp arrangement, fender peaks, oval side windows, and a subtle rear spoiler inspired by the RS3100’s ducktail spoiler. The tail-lights attempt to mirror those of the last Mk3 Capri.

Inside, the Capri EV shares many features with the current battery-electric Ford Explorer sold in Europe, another product of the VW-Ford partnership. This includes a 14.6-inch portrait-mounted infotainment system. The entry-level single-motor powertrain produces 210kW and accelerates from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.4 seconds, supported by a 77kWh battery pack that offers up to 627km on a single charge. Charging from 10-80% takes 28 minutes with a 135kW charger.

A second option, the 250kW dual-motor/all-wheel drive Capri, accelerates from 0-100km/h in just 5.3 seconds. This variant features a larger 79kWh battery, offering up to 592km on a single charge and can be topped-up at 185kW, reducing the 10-80% recharge time to 26 minutes.

In Europe, all Capri EVs come equipped with dual-zone climate control, 12-way massage seats, electric-folding door mirrors, keyless entry/start, a wireless phone charger, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The entry level features 19-inch wheels, while the range-topping Premium model adds 20-inch rims, a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with subwoofer, ambient interior lighting, Matrix LED headlights, and a gesture-operated tailgate. However, this additional equipment reduces the total range by 32km.

Optional features include 21-inch alloy wheels and a driver assist pack that includes a head-up display, active park assist, lane change assist, and a 360-degree camera. Pricing will be announced alongside the European sales launch in the final quarter of this year.

The Capri name has a storied history in Australia, used first for the original two-door coupe sold from 1969-1972, and again from 1989-1994 for the SA30 Capri roadster assembled at Ford’s Broadmeadows plant. Although the Explorer EV is under consideration for release in Australia, Ford has stated there are no plans to bring the Capri EV Down Under, despite trademarking the Capri nameplate for the Australian market in 2022.

For more motoring news, click here.

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Local News

2025 Hyundai Inster: Electric City Car Coming to Australia

Published

2 days ago

25 July 2024

Liam

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2025 Hyundai Inster: Electric City Car Coming to Australia

Hyundai’s compact and affordable electric city car, the 2025 Hyundai Inster, is set to arrive in Australia by the end of 2024. This could potentially make it the country’s cheapest battery-powered vehicle.

Unveiling and Features:

Revealed at the Busan Motor Show, the Inster is an electric adaptation of the Korean-exclusive Hyundai Casper city car. Hyundai aims to offer a broader range of mobility solutions with this model. Though pricing and local-specific features for Australia are yet to be announced, Hyundai is targeting a price below €25,000 in Europe, which translates to less than $40,000 in Australia.

Battery and Range:

Based on a petrol platform, the Inster uses lithium nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries. The Standard variant comes with a 42kWh battery pack (claimed 300km), while the Long Range (claimed 355km) variant gets a 49kWh upgrade. The two variants have different electric motors, driving ranges, and charge times.

In some regions, optional equipment like a battery heating system and heat pump will be available to maximise range and reduce charge times. The Inster also features both external and internal vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.

Dimensions and Design:

The Inster measures 3825mm in length, 1610mm in width, and 1575mm in height, with a 2580mm wheelbase. It is shorter, narrower, and lower than a Hyundai Venue but has a longer wheelbase.

The front-row occupants have 1028mm of headroom (987mm with a sunroof), while rear-seat passengers have 982mm. Legroom is 1050mm in the front and 885mm in the rear. All seats can fold flat, providing ample sleeping space if needed. The boot has a capacity of 280 litres, expandable to 351 litres with sliding second-row seats.

Exterior and Interior Features:

Standard wheels are 15-inch steel or alloy, with some markets offering 17-inch alloys and LED projector headlights. The Inster uses recycled paint for its black high-gloss exterior mouldings and PET materials inside the cabin.

Interior features include a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with navigation and wireless smartphone charging. Options include a front bench seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, and two-tone cloth trim in black or Khaki Brown and Newtro Beige.

Additional features include 64-color ambient LED lighting, a sunroof, and digital key (NFC) accessibility.

Safety Features:

The Inster comes with a high level of standard safety equipment, including:

Autonomous emergency braking
Surround-view camera
Lane-keep assist
Lane centring
Blind-spot assist
Rear-cross traffic assist
Safe exit warning
Adaptive cruise control with stop and go
Highway driving assist
Intelligent speed limit assist
Driver attention warning
High beam assist
Leading vehicle departure alert
Rear occupant alert
Front and rear parking sensors

Conclusion:

More details, including the Hyundai Inster’s Australian price and specifications, will be announced closer to its local launch. With its compact size, advanced features, and competitive pricing, the Inster is set to be a significant addition to Australia’s electric vehicle market.

For more motoring news, click here.

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Local News

2024 Lotus Emeya Debuts with 675kW

Published

4 weeks ago

27 June 2024

Liam

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2024 Lotus Emeya Debuts with 675kW

By Jeff Gibbs

Lotus has introduced the all-new 2024 Lotus Emeya, a four-door electric ‘coupe’ poised to challenge high-end Porsche Taycan EVs and stake a claim in the burgeoning hyper-GT segment. Boasting an impressive powertrain and striking design, the Emeya is set to redefine electric luxury performance.

The flagship 2024 Lotus Emeya features a dual-motor powertrain delivering an astonishing 675kW and 985Nm of torque. This setup enables the Emeya to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 2.8 seconds, rivaling the performance of the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. It achieves a top speed of 256km/h, facilitated by a sophisticated two-speed transmission.

Powered by a 102kWh lithium-ion battery, the Emeya supports ultra-fast DC charging up to 350kW, allowing the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. While Lotus has not yet disclosed the exact range, the fast-charging capability ensures minimal downtime.

The Emeya’s exterior combines bold lines and sharp angles, drawing inspiration from designs by Lamborghini and Fisker. It features a wedge-shaped silhouette, slimline exterior lighting, and a striking yellow and black colour scheme. Aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced by an active front grille, air-dam combination, and an active rear spoiler capable of generating over 215kg of downforce, supported by an active diffuser.

Inside, the Emeya continues its aggressive styling with deeply sculpted bucket seats, chunky door trims, a multi-layered dashboard, and a thick steering wheel. The minimalist digital instrument cluster is complemented by a massive 55-inch augmented reality head-up display (AR HUD) that projects crucial driving information onto the windshield.

During spirited driving, the AR HUD can be switched off in favor of a slim display on the dash, showing essential information only. The interior also features adaptive air suspension as standard and a ‘race-grade’ braking system, ensuring the vehicle can stop almost as quickly as it accelerates.

Lotus has incorporated sustainably sourced and recycled materials throughout the Emeya. The cabin includes repurposed fibres from the fashion industry, PVD aluminium, Alcantara, Nappa leather, and Ultrafabrics PU, reflecting a commitment to eco-friendly luxury.

Ben Payne, Vice President of Design at Lotus Group, commented on the Emeya’s debut: “This is a Lotus like you have never seen before. We’ve built on everything Lotus has achieved so far to create a luxury performance car for the drivers, designed to inspire confidence, exhilarate with raw emotion and pure joy – connecting them to the road.”

While customer deliveries have already begun in China, more details about the Emeya lineup, market availability, and pricing will be revealed in the next quarter. The launch in right-hand drive markets, including Australia, is expected in the second half of this year.

The 2024 Lotus Emeya marks a significant leap forward for Lotus, combining blistering performance, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable luxury. As it prepares to enter the market, the Emeya is set to challenge established players like the Porsche Taycan, offering a compelling new option for enthusiasts of high-performance electric vehicles.

For more motoring news, click here.

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