CVT Archives - Heels & Horsepower Magazine

Honda’s Trendy CV-R Gets Minor Updates

vuyi on January 18, 2022

By H&H Admin

The Honda CR-V has an impressive track record in South Africa, having pioneered the compact SUV sector of the local market when it was first introduced here more than 20 years ago.

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, designers of Honda’s CV-R have endowed it with a subtly changed exterior and interior tweaks, aimed to ensure that the mid-size SUV continues to draw attention.

A realignment of the range sees changes to the drivetrain and specifications of the 1.5T Executive. Most notably, this model now offers front-wheel drive.

The range still consists of four models offering two different engine options and varying specification levels.

To ensure that it retains all of its lustre and to enhance its already attractively rugged appeal, creators of the CR-V have endowed it with subtle exterior enhancements.

EXTERIOR

The front-end of the CR-V is still dominated by a broad-barred grille which is framed by curved, slimline headlights with integrated daytime running lights. Dual air intakes with a dark meshed finish split the colour-coded bumper, while a metallic scuff plate underlines the CR-V’s undeniable SUV identity.

At the rear, the inverted LED taillight clusters are linked by a chromed garnish strip and positioned high up on a tail gate that extends all the way down to bumper level. Adding a sporty touch to the 1.5T models are twin exhaust tailpipes, housed within the rear scuff plate.

Contrasting protective cladding on the lower sections of the body panels, together with pronounced wheel arch extensions, enhance the CR-V’s rugged looks, as do new, larger 19-inch alloy wheels on the top-of-the-range 1.5T Exclusive model.

INTERIOR

On the inside, the Honda CR-V’s interior remains largely unchanged assuring families of continued premium finishes and unparalleled space, making the cabin an altogether pleasant place to be in.

As with the previous model, one of the key interior highlights is the full-colour TFT driver information interface, which is located in a dedicated binnacle directly ahead of the driver. The display is dominated by a graph-type rev counter, accompanied by a digital speedometer.

Depending on the model, a centrally located 5-inch or 7-inch display provides user-friendly access to the CR-V’s infotainment system. The centre stack also houses the controls for the dual-zone climate control system.

DRIVETRAIN

There are two drivetrain options for the upgraded CR-V.

The first is Honda’s familiar 2,0-litre four-cylinder i-VTEC petrol engine. This normally aspirated unit features 113 kW of power and peak torque of 189 Nm.

The 1 997 cc engine is linked to Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with G-Shift control logic and provides all the convenience of an automatic gearbox. Drive is to the front wheels.

The second engine option is a 1 498 cc turbo powerplant which 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque. It too is mated to a CVT gearbox.

MODEL LINE-UP AND FEATURES

As was the case with the previous range, the upgraded Honda CR-V line-up consists of four models, with a choice of two engines and four specification levels. All derivatives feature Honda’s latest-generation Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

Honda CR-V 2.0 Comfort CVT

The 2.0 Comfort is the base model of the range and offers an extensive list of standard comfort, convenience and safety features. Powered by a proven 2,0-litre petrol engine with a CVT gearbox, the 2.0 Comfort has a top speed of 192 km/h, while fuel consumption is claimed to be 7,3 litres.100km on a combined cycle.

Distinguishing features include:

Aluminium-look front and rear scuff plates
Brushed aluminium roof rails
17-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/65 R17 tyres
Cloth upholstery and metallic accents
5-inch full-colour display
Four-speaker audio system, as well as Bluetooth connectivity
Dual-zone climate control
Rear park distance sensors
Electrically operated exterior mirrors
Dual front and side SRS airbags
Curtain airbags
Three-point inertia reel seatbelts all round
Isofix child seat anchor points
ABS brakes with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD)
Agile Handling Assist (AHA
Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
Hill Start Assist (HAS) systems

Honda CR-V 2.0 Elegance CVT

The CR-V 2.0 Elegance is technically identical to the more affordable Comfort model in terms of drivetrain and exterior execution. However, the Elegance offers an enhanced package of interior features.

Distinguishing features include:

Leather upholstery
Heated front seats
7-inch Display Audio interface
Eight-speaker audio system as well as Bluetooth connectivity
Eight-way electric adjustment (front seats)
Memory function for the driver’s seat
Front and read Park Distance Control
Downwards tilting left exterior mirror (for better visibility when reversing)
Leather-trimmed multifunction steering wheel
Gear shift paddles for manual CVT operation
Auto-sensing windscreen wipers

Honda CR-V 1.5T Executive CVT

The 1.5T Executive is powered by Honda’s force-induced, 1,5-litre petrol engine, delivering 140 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque paired to a CVT gearbox as standard.

The exterior design of the 1.5T Executive shares all the key features of the 2,0-litre models, but gains 18-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/60 R18 tyres.

Distinguishing features include:

Auto-levelling full LED headlights
Inverted LED daytime running lights
Leather upholstery
Digital Driver Information Interface
7-inch Display Audio infotainment system as the 2.0 Elegance
Start/stop button
Remote central locking system
Keyless smart entry

Honda CR-V 1.5T Exclusive CVT

The flagship of the new Honda CR-V range is the 1.5T Exclusive. Mechanically, it is identical to the Executive model, combining the same 1,5-litre turbo engine with a CVT gearbox. However, setting it apart from its lesser siblings are new 19-inch alloy wheels and three-element LED front fog lamps.

Distinguishing features include:

Auto High Beam headlights
Leather upholstery
TFT-based Digital Driver Information Interface
Panoramic sunroof
Integrated satellite navigation system
Electrically operated tailgate with programmable opening height
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS)
LanewatchTM

Honda Sensing, which comprises of:

Collision Mitigation Braking (CMBS) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed following (LSF)
Lane Keeping Assist (LKAS)

COLOURS

The colour line-up for the upgraded CR-V includes Platinum White, Lunar Silver, Modern Steel, Crystal Black and Brilliant Sporty Blue. A new addition is Coffee Cherry Red.

PRICING, WARRANTY AND SERVICE PLAN

Recommended retail pricing is as follows:

2.0L FWD Comfort CVT R556 100

2.0L FWD Elegance CVT R617 900

1.5T FWD Executive CVT R699 900

2.0L FWD Exclusive CVT R796 300

The range is backed by a comprehensive five-year/200 000 km warranty, as well as a five-year/90 000 km service plan. Also included is a three-year AA Road Assist package.

Service intervals are set at 15 000 km for the 2.0-litre models, and 10 000 km for the 1.5-litre turbo variants.

Meet the ever popular Toyota RAV4 – in Hybrid version

vuyi on September 14, 2021

Toyota South Africa has a plan to roll out Hybrid variants on most of its mainstream model ranges including the popular RAV4

With a global change in customer behaviour, Toyota are excited to introduce Hybrid variants of two of Mzansi’s most popular passenger cars – Corolla and RAV4. Both Corolla and RAV4 Hybrid are a first for South Africa and combine all the virtues of their conventional namesakes with the added performance and fuel efficiency of Toyota’s proven Hybrid system.

Based on Toyota’s angular 5th-generation sport utility, the RAV4 Hybrid combines a punchy 2.5-litre Hybrid powertrain with the popular TNGA-based 5-seater SUV. The A25A-FXS engine is shared with other global Toyota and Lexus stablemates, such as the Lexus ES and NX300h and the acclaimed Camry Hybrid.

It boasts many of the same technologies shared by the Corolla Hybrid, in a larger displacement four-cylinder offering. Featuring an ‘undersquare’ design with Toyota D-4S port and direct-injection, the Atkinson cycle engine generates 131 kW and 221 Nm in ‘ICE’ state.

The electric motor punches out 88kW and 202 Nm (at maximum state of charge) to deliver a total system output of 160kW.

Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a CVT transmission, which seamlessly integrates the two drive sources – and delivers an ultra-refined drive. Smooth punchy acceleration, low NVH levels and superb refinement, are some of the standout features of the RAV4 Hybrid.

The Hybrid pays dividends at the fuel pump too, as the model’s fuel consumption index is listed at mere 4.7 l/100 km with CO2 emissions registering 107 g/km. A remarkable consumption figure for a 5-seater SUV.

One Grade, One Spec

The RAV4 Hybrid is offered in tweaked GX trim – which strikes a balance between core convenience spec, value for money and luxury convenience.

The RAV4 Hybrid boasts LED head and taillamps complete with DRL’s up front, rain-sensing wipers, heated and power-operated side mirrors and keyless entry. Occupants are well catered for with dual-zone climate control, three 12-volt power outlets and multiple cupholders. Driver convenience is boosted by the fitment of Cruise Control, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, multi-information display and a tilt & telescopic steering wheel finished in leather and incorporating steering switches.

The infotainment system centres around Toyota’s touchscreen interface, delivering sound output through six speakers while interfacing via 3 x USB inputs, Bluetooth and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto mediums.

Driver support systems include Park Distance Control (PDC), ABS, EBD, VSC, Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Drive Mode Select (Eco/Normal/Power). A full complement of airbags is present, including side and curtain variants, as well as an anti-theft system.

The RAV4 Hybrid rides on 17-inch alloy wheels with 225-65-R17 rubber joined by a full-size spare wheel. Roof rails, a rear spoiler, blue Toyota insignia, Hybrid badging and mud guards also form part of the standard repertoire.

Colours & Trims

A total of eight exterior hues are available; Glacier White, Pearl White, Chromium Silver, Graphite Grey, Caribbean Blue, Cinnabar Red, Urban Khaki and Moonlight Ocean metallic. The Interior is finished off in a textured-black textile trim.

Model Line-up & Pricing

RAV4 GX Hybrid CVT – R 555 300

The pricing has been set at a very competitive level in anticipation of future government support on New Energy Vehicles (NEV). Toyota South Africa Motors’ strategy is to make Hybrid models attainable and offer customers an attractive product package – leveraging the benefits of Hybrid technology – without paying significant premiums in order to experience it.

Peace of Mind

A six-services or 90 000 km service plan is standard with service Intervals pegged at 15 000 km / 12- months. Toyota’s standard 3-year/100 000 km warranty is included and customers have the additional peace of mind of an 8-year / 195 000 km Hybrid battery warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

CAR REVIEW: Is The New Honda Ballade A Gem Or Cubic Zirconia?

vuyi on May 3, 2021

I remember the original Honda Ballade featured headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet and everyone thought it the height of elegance at the time.
– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

I remember the original Honda Ballade from the ’80s with headlights that folded down flush with the bonnet. Everyone thought it the height of elegance and the Ballade soon became one of Honda’s most iconic and successful models. Almost 4 decades later and a name change detour via Civic that I won’t delve into, the 8^thGeneration Honda Ballade is back with a 3-model line-up – Comfort, Elegance, and the range-topping RS.

The RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine
– MICHELLE YORK, GM SOUTH AFRICAN GUILD OF MOTORING JOURNALISTS & FREELANCER FOR DRIVING IN HEELS

The all-new Ballade is an attractive sedan with a sculpted body and striking lines. The front boasts a bold grille design as well as the new slim headlight treatment shared with the larger Honda Civic. The rear lights instantly reminded me of a certain little German car that I am rather fond of. The Ballade has a slightly lower centre of gravity and is marginally larger than its predecessor, all of which translates to impressive road handling.

I had the flagship Honda Ballade RS on test, and I simply had to slip in the word “ship” somewhere because the RS moniker refers to “Road Sailing” and not, as one might think, to a more powerful engine. While the Ballade does have a very capable suspension for our roads, the RS badge might cause a little confusion!

I took the Ballade RS on a drive to the diamond mining town of Cullinan to see if Honda had produced a real gem or cubic zirconia; bearing in mind that it enters the market amidst the likes of the Corolla Quest, VW Polo sedan, Mazda3, and Fiat Tipo. Here’s what I discovered.

The all-new Ballade introduces a new 1.5L DOHC engine with i-VTEC technology and a revised version of Honda’s Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It has a good road presence and solidly grips through corners giving it a safe overall feel. The CVT is relatively quiet but should you need to unexpectedly accelerate, you’ll be met with the distinctive CVT whine, but this is to be expected. Thankfully the RS comes fitted with paddle shifts, should the automatic gearbox need a little assistance.

I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring

The Ballade RS is an accomplished sedan with good finishes and the usual alphabet of features like ABS, EBD, VSA, etc. There is ample legroom in the front and rear and a generous boot that could easily fit a pram or set of golf clubs.

All models are fitted with ISOFIX child seat anchors making the Ballade a suitable option for those on the market for a capable family car. The all-new Ballade also offers those looking to make the upgrade from a hatchback to a vehicle that has a little more panache than the usual suspects on the market.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the new Honda Ballade and was impressed by its excellent fuel consumption, an admirable sales point in a time when the cost of living is soaring. After my trip to Cullinan, I can confirm that the Honda Ballade is not a cubic zirconia, it’s a little diamond and diamonds are a girl’s best friend after all.

Priced from :

Ballade Comfort 1.5: R 336 500

Ballade Elegance 1.5: R 366 900

Ballade Elegance 1.5: R 396 900

The Honda Ballade range comes standard with a five-year/200 000 warranty, four-year/60 000km, and three-year AA Roadside Assistance.

ABOUT MICHELLE YORK

Michelle York has been in the automotive industry for over 20 years and is the General Manager of the SA Guild of Motoring Journalists, (SAGMJ). When she isn’t test driving cars or cracking the whip at the Guild, Michelle enjoys tinkering about in the garage and is currently converting her incredibly bright yellow minivan into an incredibly bright mini camper van. She has 5 lively dogs of varying shapes and sizes – all of which are jostling to ride shotgun once the van has been completed.