Honda Introduces All-New CR-V.

Tokyo, Japan, Oct 12, 2006 - (JCN Newswire) - Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the introduction of an all-new version of its popular CR-V sport utility vehicle. When it first debuted in 1995, the CR-V created a new segment in the SUV market by combining the comfort of a passenger car with outstanding everyday practicality. The CR-V went on to amass total sales of more than 2.5 million vehicles(*1) in 160 countries around the world. The all-new CR-V will go on sale Friday, October 13, at Honda automobile dealers throughout Japan.

Since its introduction, the CR-V has been designed to function as a runabout vehicle that offers the comfort of a sedan with the off-road maneuverability and utility of a minivan, creating new possibilities in mobility. This next generation CR-V expands on the original concept to incorporate further advancements in design and performance to ensure an enjoyable experience for its occupants no matter where they go or what they do.

The exterior design combines a strong, tough lower body with a sporty cabin to achieve a refined, urban look. The spare tire is stowed under the floor and the tailgate opens vertically for improved styling and functionality. The door mirror on the passenger side features a built-in prism under-mirror, eliminating the need for the fender-mounted side under-mirror used in the previous model to create a sleeker exterior image.

The engine is a 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC, which delivers powerful torque at all engine speeds. Combined with the 5-speed automatic transmission, it achieves comfortable, linear driving performance. Its new Real Time 4WD system conveys 20% more torque to the rear wheels than the previous system, while VSA(*2) and DBW(*3) - standard equipment on all models - provide coordinated control for a major improvement in driving stability.

The tread has been widened and the center of gravity lowered, and high-tensile steel employed throughout the body and chassis. The suspension settings have also been optimized to match the larger, wider tires, to achieve pliable handling and superior comfort on par with a sedan.

1 Cumulative sales from October 1995 to August 2006 (Honda calculations)

2 VSA (Vehicle Stability Assist) is a vehicle stabilization system - standard equipment on all models

3 DBW (Drive-by-Wire) is an electronic throttle control system - standard feature on all models

For more information, visit http://world.honda.com/news/2006/4061012AllNewCRV/

About Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (TSE:7267/NYSE:HMC/LSE:HNDA.L) is one of the leading manufacturers of automobiles and power products and the largest manufacture of motorcycles in the world. Honda has always sought to provide genuine satisfaction to people worldwide. The result is more than 120 manufacturing facilities in 30 countries worldwide, producing a wide range of products, including motorcycles, ATVs, generators, marine engines, lawn and garden equipment and automobiles that bring the company into contact with over 19 million customers annually. For more information, please visit http://world.honda.com.

Source: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.

Contact:

Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Media Inquiries
Tel: [phone]
E-mail: [e-mail]

Copyright [c] 2006 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. A division of Japan Corporate News Network K.K.