American EV maker Rivian is gearing as much as lastly enter Europe with a brace of strikingly styled electric crossovers referred to as the R2 and R3 – the latter of which can spawn an off-road-focused efficiency crossover.
The sudden addition to the R2 reveal occasion, dubbed the R3X, was confirmed to pack a tri-motor powertrain – a configuration utilized by the Lucid Air Sapphire and Tesla Model S Plaid.
It wears thick-walled off-road tyres which sit prouder of the physique than on the common R3, hinting its dynamic character shall be extra like that of the Porsche 911 Dakar and Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato, relatively than typical scorching crossovers such because the Hyundai Kona N and Audi RSQ3.
The R3X was unveiled alongside the common R3 and the bigger R2 crossover, which would be the first of the three new fashions to reach.
The R2 is earmarked for a US launch in the course of the first half of 2026 and worldwide gross sales will comply with shortly after.
It is pitched as a rugged five-seater “optimised for big adventures”, providing a totally flat-folding inside and a powered rear display that slides into the bootlid for an open-air cabin, like on the Fisker Ocean.
It is being developed with an “extreme focus” on passenger house and storage capability, with a big ‘frunk’ along with the common boot, in addition to a raft of inside cubbies.
The R2 is sized roughly in line with theTesla Model Y, measuring 4.7m lengthy and 1.7m excessive, with a 2.9m wheelbase.
Three powertrains shall be accessible, with Rivian aiming to supply a steadiness of outright efficiency and off-road functionality. Entry-level automobiles will get a single, rear-mounted motor, however a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive mannequin can even be accessible. The hottest variants will get the three-motor set-up from the R3X, with a further drive unit on the rear axle.
Rivian’s first reasonably priced mannequin, the R2, is lastly right here. The small SUV, revealed right now, will begin at $45,000, coming extraordinarily near the Tesla Model Y’s beginning MSRP of $44,360.
The R2 is the Rivian’s second SUV and fourth manufacturing automobile, meant to fit under the larger R1S. There are new battery cells within the ground powering a single electrical motor within the rear. All-wheel drive will probably be accessible in dearer trims courtesy of dual- or tri-motor setups.
No matter the trim, Rivian says the R2 can journey over 300 miles between expenses. Go for the tri-motor SUV, and you’ll dash to 60 mph in underneath three seconds.
The Illinois startup has retained its signature search for the R2, with a monolithic entrance finish and a tall, boxy greenhouse. We would not blame you for calling this automotive a mini R1S. The inside is way of the identical, dominated by a centrally-mounted touchscreen. There are additionally fold-flat entrance and rear seats, pop-out rear quarter home windows, and two glove bins (up from zero within the R1S).
Most importantly, the R2 will qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit score, making it a compelling selection within the hotly contested reasonably priced EV phase. Charging should not be a lot of a problem both, because it comes commonplace with the North American Charging Standard port with entry to Tesla’s community of Superchargers.
If there ever was a automotive to tackle Tesla’s dominant market share, it is the R2.
Almost three years after its July, 2021 debut, Lotus can lastly start Emira deliveries within the US. As first spotted by a user on the Lotus Talk forum, and confirmed to Motor1 by a Lotus consultant, the Emira simply obtained certification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB). This means sellers can lastly ship automobiles to prospects.
As we previously reported, solely 14 US states comply with CARB guidelines, however Lotus did not wish to start gross sales within the 36 non-CARB states beforehand. This was ostensibly to stop prospects there from flipping automobiles to patrons in CARB states, the place the Emira could not be registered. Lotus submitted a brand new Emira V6 powertrain calibration for CARB approval again in January and it was permitted on February twenty ninth.
It’s lastly occurred, mates. Husqvarna formally introduced that it is bringing a Svartpilen 801 to the lots. While it is not the 901 that we were thinking from the firm’s initial teaser, we’re undoubtedly not mad about it. The factor seems like much more enjoyable within the full teaser video that Husky launched to point out the brand new Svarty in motion.
It’s principally an prolonged model of the tasty little teaser it confirmed on the finish of February. We get to see the brand new Svart testing its limits on each ice and filth oval tracks, full with the requisite spiked tires. Two slippy surfaces, two riders, one bike to rule all of them, is Husqvarna’s messaging.
Here’s What We Know So Far About The 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801
The very very first thing we all know is that Husky says it is going to be a 2024 bike. The full announcement, together with all the specs, can be launched on March 19, 2024. Not a 2025 bike; a 2024. New bike season apparently is not fairly over but.
Secondly, the brand new Svart 801 weighs a claimed 181 kilograms, or about 399 kilos. It’s value noting right here that Husqvarna hasn’t specified whether or not it is a dry or a moist weight. However, contemplating that Husqvarna usually lists dry weights on its spec sheets, and that the Norden 901 has a listed dry weight of 204 kilograms (or 449 kilos), we expect it is protected to imagine that this determine can be a dry weight.
While we at RideApart will usually do the mathematics to get just a little nearer to a real moist weight once we even have a gas capability determine we are able to work with, that is not the case for the Svartpilen 801 simply but. Look for that determine on March 19, 2024, when full specs can be accessible and we are able to thus faucet away at our calculators with aplomb. (It’s coming; we promise.)
The claimed horsepower determine given is 105, which signifies that that is the traditional, no-surprises LC8C parallel twin engine contained in the Svartpilen 801, and never the up to date, extra highly effective model. That’s not notably shocking, and extra detailed data can be accessible later in March 2024, as we have famous above.
The 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 will include Easy Shift, like many of the present lineup.
7Photos
What do you consider the 2024 Husqvarna Svartpilen 801 now that you’ve got had a greater take a look at it? What are you hoping that Husqvarna will reveal about it on March 19? Also, how quickly do you suppose this implies we are able to anticipate a Vitpilen 801 to comply with in its tracks? Let us know within the feedback!
Honda has lastly formally introduced its subsequent hydrogen-powered car, the CR-V e:FCEV. This information comes after Honda and GM partnered to develop hydrogen fuel cells in the United States. Honda has had a imaginative and prescient for hydrogen that goes again a long time, and now as different automakers join the fray, hydrogen seems to be again on the rise as a method to remove emissions for automobiles. Honda hopes to make use of America as a launching level for its hydrogen-driven future.
The CR-V has been one of many best-selling vehicles in its class for the previous 10 years, so it is no marvel Honda used it as the idea for a brand new hydrogen effort. A basic household crossover, the CR-V permits house for the children, their sports activities gear, and the canine.
All of this wrapped up in a secure, comfy, easy-to-drive bundle. Now Honda is giving shoppers this engaging possibility with a inexperienced spin. A zero-emission crossover for the lots, with new clear know-how to make the transition away from gasoline as painless as doable. The CR-V e:FCEV is a little bit of a mouthful, however we positively are intrigued by the prospect of a brand new hydrogen crossover. Here’s what it’s good to find out about Honda’s latest SUV.
In order to provide the latest and correct info doable, the information used to compile this text was sourced from Honda’s press releases on its hydrogen vehicles and its hydrogen gas cell manufacturing facility.
Can hydrogen automobiles emerge because the quintessence of sustainable transportation? These 15 upcoming hydrogen vehicles may maintain the reply.
1This is Honda’s First Hydrogen-Powered Car In Production Since 2021
Honda
Honda has been producing hydrogen automobiles since 2002 with its unique FCX. The unique FCX was the truth is the primary hydrogen-powered automotive to be made road-legal within the U.S., beating even Toyota to the punch. Most just lately, Honda had launched the Clarity Fuel Cell as its hydrogen staple.
In 2015 Honda introduced a brand new Clarity, eliminating the FCX naming conference.
The new era Clarity was supplied as a plug-in hybrid, absolutely electrical, and gas cell car.
The most up-to-date Clarity has a spread of 366 miles on a single hydrogen fill-up.
It was discontinued in 2021.
The Clarity Fuel Cell unfortunately struggled with sales, resulting in the termination of its manufacturing. Lack of infrastructure continues to be one of many predominant points plaguing hydrogen’s breakthrough as a reliable manner of fueling a car, and the Clarity Fuel Cell is one other sufferer of that drawback. However, Honda has not given up hope, and is forging forward with the CR-V e:FCEV
2The CR-V e:FCEV Is The Only Hydrogen Production Car Made In America
While America is transferring in direction of a inexperienced future, we’re not precisely often known as probably the most environmentally pleasant nation on Earth. So it needs to be no shock that earlier than the CR-V e:FCEV there have been no hydrogen manufacturing vehicles made right here. Surprisingly, it was not one of many American auto-giants that made the breakthrough, however a Japanese firm in Honda. However, it did have some assist from GM.
Honda’s Partnership With GM Means American-Made Green Vehicles
They constructed a 70,000 square-feet manufacturing facility in Michigan to additional the hassle, which now produces Honda’s fuel cells for the CR-V e:FCEV.
Honda expects over 2,000 gas cell models a 12 months to return out of the manufacturing facility within the close to future.
The CR-V e:FCEV is inbuilt Honda’s efficiency manufacturing middle in Marysville, Ohio.
For these inquisitive about shopping for an American, a Japanese automotive could look like a wierd possibility. However, Honda is devoted to constructing its gas cell vehicles right here, and is in league with certainly one of our largest automakers to do it. The extra patriotic readers amongst us ought to smile in realizing that superior automotive know-how nonetheless comes out of the U.S.
3Honda Says The CR-V e:FCEV Will Be On The Roads In 2024
The CR-V e:FCEV just isn’t some idea or dream from Honda. It is a bonafide manufacturing automotive that can be obtainable to drive quickly. Honda has introduced that it is going to be obtainable to the general public within the 2024 calendar 12 months.
The New Hydrogen-Powered Car Will Be Available To Lease In California
Currently, Honda has introduced solely a leasing possibility for its new hydrogen effort. This just isn’t out of line with its earlier hydrogen choices. The most up-to-date Clarity Fuel Cell was solely obtainable for lease as nicely. Pricing has not been mentioned by Honda, however the previous Clarity was a $379/month lease.
However, that determine did embody hydrogen gas prices as much as $15,000 by means of the time period of the lease in addition to different advantages. It stays to be seen how Honda will make its leasing construction work for its latest hydrogen car, however with the cost of fuel being high for hydrogen cars, it is probably that it’ll as soon as once more pay on your hydrogen. The predominant downside to not with the ability to purchase a hydrogen car is that the proprietor just isn’t eligible for the substantial tax credit score the zero-emission automotive brings. We’ll see how Honda handles this going ahead.
The Hyundai Nexo remains to be a viable possibility when you’re contemplating a brand new FCEV, and here is
4The CR-V e:FCEV Is A Plug-In Hybrid
Honda
Honda has taken a little bit of a unique technique with the ability plant of its new hydrogen car. This time it included a battery pack with a plug-in charger alongside the gas cell. This is a brand new line of considering for hydrogen vehicles, to mix EV tech and gas cells. It’s additionally the design of Renault’s Scenic Vision hydrogen idea automotive.
Batteries And A Fuel Cell Will Power The New CUV
The CR-V e:FCEV could have a 29-mile vary of battery energy.
The design is meant to permit the motive force to make use of electrical energy for brief native journeys, after which hydrogen for longer ones.
This means much less fueling at hydrogen stations, which ought to make shoppers cautious in regards to the gas infrastructure comfortable.
Honda hopes the ham-and-egg technique can be handy for households who’re continually on the go, however by no means going that far.
The thought of a hybrid hydrogen car is slightly impressed. It ought to assist alleviate the nervousness of not with the ability to discover a hydrogen station in a time of want. However, the 29-mile quantity may not be sufficient in Southern California, the place the automotive can be obtainable. Still, we’re to see how this zero-emission hybrid pans out.
5This Is The First Major Step In Honda’s Green Future
Honda
Honda is severe about lowering emissions. It has gone all in with this gas cell manufacturing facility within the U.S., and even retooled a part of the aforementioned Marysville plant to make EVs as nicely. It has formidable targets about being a inexperienced firm and plans to execute these targets.
The Company Plans To Be Carbon Neutral By 2050
Through its “Triple Action to Zero” technique, Honda plans to go absolutely carbon-neutral.
By 2050 it should use solely 100% sustainable supplies.
It plans to make use of 100% carbon-free power by 2050 as nicely.
Even sooner, it plans to promote 40-percent EV or HFCVs in North America by 2030, and 100-precent by 2040
Honda has spent billions of {dollars} (and trillions of yen) making this transfer to electrification and hydrogen. These plans at the moment are rock strong, and with main gamers within the automotive house like Honda on the brink of reject inner combustion, we may truly be seeing the end of gasoline.
6The CR-V e:FCEV Offers A 270-mile Range
Honda
We talked about the 29-mile battery vary of the hydrogen CR-V, however the EPA has rated the crossover for 270 miles all-in with its hydrogen element. As we talked about with the battery vary, this simply does not essentially really feel like sufficient. We cannot say we’re too impressed with a 270-mile vary for a hydrogen car in 2024.
This Puts It A Bit Behind Some Of Its Hydrogen Competitors
This is already a couple of 100-mile discount from the Clarity Fuel Cell, not a superb search for Honda to be going backward right here.
It’s additionally about 130 lower than the Mirai, Toyota’s hydrogen mainstay.
It’s a bit baffling that Honda would launch this automotive with about 25% much less vary than its earlier hydrogen providing, particularly since, as a bigger automotive, it ought to have been simpler to place in a bigger hydrogen gas system. It additionally begs the query if the plug-in hybrid system actually makes any sense, because it simply seems to be lowering the vary in comparison with full-on gas cell automobiles. Honda’s opponents with the ability to say “well, our car has about 40-50-percent more range than the CR-V” can’t be a robust gross sales level. 270 miles is not a horrible vary within the EV and hydrogen world, but it surely simply seems like a determine from 10 years in the past, particularly as Honda’s opponents keep pushing longer ranges.
The Toyota Mirai is obtainable with $15,000 price of free hydrogen for six years. This is how a lot you may pay to refuel as soon as that runs out.
7The CR-V e:FCEV Makes Up To 174 Horsepower
Honda
We’ll simply get it out within the open from the beginning. The hydrogen CR-V just isn’t presupposed to be a efficiency car. It is supposed to drop the children off at college and soccer follow, or go to the farmer’s market. It is supposed to do these items comfortably and safely, lengthy earlier than it’s meant to do these items rapidly and excitingly. Thus, it’s not going to blow anybody’s thoughts with energy figures.
2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV Specs
Horsepower
174 horsepower
Torque
229 pound-feet of torque
Estimated Power Output
92.2kW
Battery Capacity
17.7 kWh
MPGe Ratings (City / Hwy / Combined)
61 / 52 / 57
EV Range
29 miles
Driving Range
270 miles
Hydrogen Fuel Tank Pressure
10,000 psi
Hydrogen Fuel Tank Capacity
4.3 kg
(Specs sourced from Honda)
This is just like the bottom ICE CR-V which makes 190 horses, and 179 pound-feet of torque.
This can also be in step with the Nexo’s stats of 161 horses and 290 pound-feet of torque.
Electric motors all the time present a torque benefit, which implies that the e:FCEV could also be somewhat higher for towing (one thing easy like a motorbike rack or small trailer) than its ICE brother.
The energy supplied by the CR-V e:FCEV is nothing to put in writing dwelling about. However, it doesn’t should be. It is made for households and professionals, not speed-freaks. It is a zero-emission different to a well-liked crossover, not a brand new, groundbreaking piece of automotive genius. It is giving as a lot because it must for its function within the automotive world.
8It Will Be Available In Only One Trim
Honda
If you desire a hydrogen-powered CR-V, you’re going to get *the* hydrogen-powered CR-V. Honda is simply making one model of the automotive, not one with a number of trim ranges. It seems probably the most you possibly can select in regards to the CR-V e:FCEV is the paint and inside colours.
Just The ‘Touring’ Will Be In Showrooms
Unlike the ICE CR-V, simply the ‘Touring’ mannequin can be obtainable. The gasoline model is available in 4 variations; the EX, EX-L, Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid editions. It seems the hydrogen-powered model will simply take top-level trim from the unique. It is not going to be with out goodies, nonetheless,
Honda says it will have things like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, dual-zone local weather management, and be made with sustainable supplies, like so-called “bio-leather”, together with some tech options to be mentioned in a while. Considering it doesn’t permit you to buy the automotive, it is sensible that Honda would slightly simply lease out a standardized mannequin. It makes it simpler for everybody from the manufacturing facility to the gross sales rep, and it makes the choice to lease one for the buyer slightly than black and white.
9A Honda Power Supply Connector Will Be Included With The FCEV
Honda
Since the latest CR-V is a plug-in hybrid, it solely is sensible that Honda offers a plug. While it is unclear if Honda can pay for set up, it should at the very least give the charging system totally free along with your lease. Having an at dwelling cost level is a should for many who will depend on the battery vary of the e:FCEV to get round city.
The At-Home Charging System Ensures You Get The Most Out Of Your Plug-In Hybrid
Honda will present a 110-volt charger.
No cost time information has been launched, but it surely’s secure to imagine a reasonably fast cost for the restricted vary.
The battery may also then be used to energy different objects like energy instruments and tenting gear.
Honda is getting in on the pattern of allowing your electric batteries to power things other than your car. This is all effective and dandy, and I’m certain it’s helpful to some house owners, but it surely appears somewhat bit superfluous for a automotive with over 100 miles much less vary than its opponents. It appears like most house owners will want each mile they’ll get out of the hybrid system, but when the chance arises to make use of the batteries to energy a band noticed, it is higher to have it and never want it than to want it and never have it.
Hydrogen vehicles are right here to compete with EVs in a inexperienced future. This is what we all know in regards to the limits of their vary and which automotive tops the checklist.
10The CR-V e:FCEV Is Loaded With Tech
Honda
The batteries is not going to simply energy know-how from exterior the brand new CR-V, they energy issues inside as nicely. Honda has loaded up the brand new hydrogen automotive with every kind of recent tech to maintain the automotive feeling trendy and classy.
Digital Instrumentation And A Large Touchscreen Are Just The Beginning
The CR-V e:FCEV comes commonplace with a nine-inch HD touchscreen.
It has a ten.2-inch digital instrumentation cluster.
It has Android Auto and Apple Car Play Connect with wi-fi compatibility.
The new hydrogen CR-V has wi-fi cellphone charging built-in.
The e:FCEV has Honda Sensing which incorporates blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning and help techniques, collision help, adaptive cruise management, cross-traffic warnings for parking tons, and extra.
The know-how included commonplace within the CR-V e:FCEV is spectacular, correctly for a automotive sporting the alleged way forward for gas techniques. Drivers needs to be proud of the comfort and security of the usual know-how on the hydrogen CR-V.
Honda
Overall the CR-V e:FCEV appears like a pleasant addition to the trendy hydrogen car catalog, nonetheless, the vary actually does depart one thing to be desired. We’re uncertain what Honda was interested by releasing a automotive with almost 100 miles much less vary than its earlier hydrogen-powered car. Still, in case you are available in the market for a zero-emission crossover, see how this one stands up to the Nexo as soon as it turns into obtainable.
The inevitable has lastly arrived. Everyone is aware of SUVs are fashionable – within the US they outsell different classes together with pickup vehicles. The similar may be stated for Europe, however an much more disturbing statistic reared its head within the Old Continent for 2023. SUVs weren’t merely the most well-liked car class. They outsold all different classes mixed.
We saw this coming last year when preliminary numbers pointed in direction of complete SUV dominance, however a tally from Automotive News Europe exhibits the 50-percent threshold was certainly crossed for 2023. Specifically, 51 p.c of recent car gross sales went to SUVs and crossovers, leaving sedans, vehicles, wagons, and hatchbacks to replenish the remaining. It’s a 19-percent year-over-year improve for the phase, led by the Tesla Model Y, which earned the title of best-selling vehicle in the world for 2023. For some context, Model Y gross sales alone elevated a whopping 85 p.c within the area.
The new W214-generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class debuted last Spring, and it is lastly on its technique to US dealerships. Mercedes-Benz on Tuesday introduced pricing for the brand new E350 and E450 sedans, and so they’re not low cost. The base E350 4Matic in “Premium” trim prices $63,450 and pricing climbs all the best way as much as $71,800 for the E450 4Matic in “Pinnacle” trim. All in all, it is a bit dearer than its nearest rivals.
Here’s a breakdown for pricing in every trim, together with a $1,150 vacation spot price:
Model
Price
E350 4Matic Premium
$63,450
E350 4Matic Pinnacle
$66,000
E450 4Matic Premium
$69,250
E450 4Matic Pinnacle
$71,800
The E350 comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque whereas the E450 will get a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes has simplified its trim choices in recent times, packaging a whole lot of options consumers need into the bottom “Premium” trim.
The “Pinnacle” trim provides stuff that may most likely be greatest described as “nice to have” however not important. Stuff like a light-up grille and “Active Ambient Lighting with Sound Visualization.” All E-Class fashions now come customary with all-wheel drive, too.
Compared with rivals, the E-Class is fairly costly. The base Audi A6 Quattro prices $58,395 whereas the brand new BMW 530i xDrive rings in at $61,195. (A rear-drive 530i is cheaper nonetheless, at $58,895.) Without a full spec sheet for the Mercedes, it is exhausting to match them like-for-like, so maybe when equally geared up the Audi and BMW are roughly equal, if not pricier. It’s an identical story with six-cylinder variations of the these mid-size luxurious sedans, too. The beautiful Genesis G80 can be a bit cheaper at $55,560 to start out.
It’s price noting that the brand new 2024 E-Class is dearer than the 2023 mannequin. The outgoing E350 4Matic began at $60,400 and the E450 4Matic costing $66,700. But, the brand new E-Class does pack a ton of technology, together with an optionally available selfie digicam. Can you actually put a value on that?
In 2022, Bugatti lastly chopped off the Chiron’s roof to create the Mistral. An achingly beautiful roadster, the open-top hypercar is proscribed to 99 items, the primary of which can be delivered this yr. If you are not among the many unique patrons, now’s your probability to purchase one. But it’s going to value you.
While the unique prospects agreed to pay the princely sum of about €5 million plus taxes, the construct slot on Mobile.de instructions a considerable premium. It’s out there for €8,539,900. The internet value is an eye-watering €7.9 million, so nonetheless €2.9M greater than the unique sticker value. After factoring in taxes, you are taking a look at spending roughly $9.3 million at present change charges.
The XUV700 lastly will get ventilated entrance seats and a brand new blacked-out search for the top-spec AX7 and AX7L variants
Mahindra XUV700 lineup up to date for 2024 with revised pricing and extra options.
The SUV now will get ventilated entrance seats and reminiscence operate for ORVMs within the top-spec trims (AX7 and AX7L).
It can now even be had in a brand new Napoli Black paint; increased variants additionally obtainable in a dual-tone possibility.
Mahindra has additionally up to date the linked automobile tech suite of the SUV by introducing 13 new features.
Powertrain choices unchanged; nonetheless obtainable with each petrol and diesel models with an elective AWD with the latter.
Bookings are open for the 2024 XUV700 and models will begin reaching dealerships from 25 January.
Like we normally see firstly of a brand new yr, carmakers deliver out mannequin yr (MY) updates for a few of their automobiles with out ready to introduce a correct facelift. Now, the Mahindra XUV700 has undergone an analogous revision whereby it has gained some new variants, options, and even a recent paint possibility.
Price Check
Mahindra has not revealed the detailed costs for the 2024 XUV700 however listed here are the beginning costs for every variant:
New Variant
Ex-showroom Price
MX
Rs 13.99 lakh
AX3
Rs 16.39 lakh
AX5
Rs 17.69 lakh
AX7
Rs 21.29 lakh
AX7L
Rs 23.99 lakh
With the introduction of the up to date lineup, the SUV’s beginning worth has gone down by Rs 4,000. Bookings for the MY2024 XUV700 are actually open, however it is going to solely begin reaching dealerships from January 25.
2024 XUV700 Changes Explained
First and foremost, the XUV700 mid-size SUV lastly will get the choice of a 6-seater configuration with captain seats within the middle-row. It is proscribed to the feature-loaded AX7 and AX7L variants. This cabin structure possibility has been supplied by the XUV700’s rivals since launch, and was lengthy overdue from Mahindra.
One of the largest and most considerable function updates is the supply of ventilated entrance seats within the Mahindra SUV’s range-topping AX7L variant. Additionally, the linked automobile know-how of the XUV700 has been additional enriched with further options by means of a software program replace. Lastly, the driving force seat’s reminiscence operate within the top-spec variant now additionally enables you to save the positioning of the ORVMs, a useful and helpful function if you share your automobile with others.
The XUV700 can also be now obtainable in a brand new Napoli Black color. While this paint alternative could be had with all variants, choosing this shade for the top-spec AX7 and AX7L variants will get you a blacked out end for the grille and alloy wheels too, thus giving the SUV a stealthy look. Moreover, these variants function a darkish chrome end across the AC vents and central console. If the black hue is not your choice, there’s an alternate – the higher-end variants now provide a dual-tone color possibility with a blacked-out roof, imparting a sportier look.
No Changes Underneath The Hood
Mahindra hasn’t made any modifications underneath the bonnet of the SUV. The XUV700 continues to be bought with each petrol and diesel engine choices as earlier than. Here’s a glance:
Specification
2-litre Turbo-petrol
2.2-litre Diesel
Power
200 PS
Up to 185 PS
Torque
380 Nm
450 Nm
Transmission
6-speed MT, 6-speed AT
6-speed MT, 6-speed AT
The top-spec AX7 and AX7L variants are additionally obtainable with an elective all-wheel-drive (AWD) system however solely with the diesel-automatic unit.
The 6- and 7-seater variants of the Mahindra XUV700 go up towards the Hyundai Alcazar, Tata Safari and MG Hector Plus. Its 5-seat model takes on the higher-spec trims of the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Tata Harrier.
For the primary time, Honda has lastly supplied a hybrid model of the CR-V starting with the present technology model–years after its chief rival, the RAV4, was given the electrified treatment by Toyota. This is kind of an odd transfer contemplating that Honda has been promoting hybrids for fairly some time now, albeit none which have made as huge of an affect as Toyota’s electrified mannequin vary did.
Better late than by no means, proper? And certainly, Honda made the precise transfer by lastly providing the CR-V Hybrid within the United States. That’s as a result of in 2023, the brand new CR-V Hybrid, along with the Accord Hybrid, accounted for an enormous chunk of Honda’s gross sales; 293,640 total copies, to be specific. This means one in 4 Hondas bought within the nation was electrified. With that in thoughts, what has Honda achieved proper with the CR-V hybrid and has led this crossover SUV to achieve success?
The CR-V Hybrid is now much more standard than Honda’s best-selling CR-V within the U.S. Here’s an in depth breakdown of all its trims and configurations.
In order to provide the newest and correct info potential, the info used to compile this text was sourced from varied producer web sites and different authoritative sources, together with Honda and Toyota.
A Hybrid Drivetrain Tuned For Driving Pleasure
Isaac Atienza
The Honda CR-V Hybrid could seem very similar to the RAV4 Hybrid on paper, because of the two methods having a four-cylinder gasoline engine, electrical motors, and even an e-CVT for the transmission. However, that is the place the similarities finish, as a result of the fourth-generation Toyota Hybrid System (THS) and Honda’s hybrid system (marketed as e:HEV abroad) function and ship their energy barely otherwise, and it will more than likely have an effect on your buy preferences between the 2 class-leading electrified crossover SUVs.
An Engine Note That’s Acoustically Good
I’ve had the privilege to have pushed each the RAV4 Hybrid and extra not too long ago, the CR-V Hybrid extensively as press vehicles, so no less than you understand the place I’m coming from with my judgment. Compared to THS, Honda’s hybrid system makes use of a barely smaller 2.0-liter four-cylinder versus Toyota’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder, and the one within the Toyota sounds coarse beneath arduous acceleration. The Honda VTEC motor, nevertheless, is a Ok-series engine, and it sounds excellent. In Sport mode (no less than on this Philippine-spec model I’m driving) pipes in artificial engine noise, however outdoors that mode, you will be stunned at how good the engine sounds, as is.
Power Delivery That’s Enthusiastic
Isaac Atienza
Remember that each methods use an e-CVT, however they’re solely comparable in precept, however not in operation. That’s as a result of the Honda system does its best to mimic a traditional automatic with stepped ratios. And but, you will be stunned that it’s not solely simulated. That’s as a result of the Honda system has two completely different clutches–one for top speeds and the opposite for low speeds. As a outcome, there’s an precise shift level someplace within the energy band.
However, consequently, the Honda system feels a bit much less responsive when coming from a cease in comparison with the THS system’s e-CVT, which makes use of a set of planetary gears with no clutch. Don’t get me flawed, the CR-V Hybrid does get a lift from the electrical motor, however the Toyota system simply feels a bit extra responsive when coming from a cease. This, nevertheless, can be why the THS system drones the cabin with engine noise versus the Honda having simulated gear adjustments.
The CR-V Hybrid continues to serve Honda as its best-selling SUV, providing distinctive gasoline effectivity with out compromising on energy or type.
Where Honda’s Hybrid System Stands Out
Isaac Atienza
Now, due to the Honda hybrid system’s two sets of clutches (not associated to a dual-clutch automated, thoughts you), it has one potential that the THS drivetrain cannot do. This one, specifically, will theoretically assist the CR-V Hybrid obtain higher effectivity at low speeds and likewise, objectively talking, a smoother drive.
The Engine Can Act As A Generator
Both the THS and Honda’s hybrid methods are power-split or series-parallel hybrids. This implies that each methods permit the operation of simply the electrical motor or each the engine and the electrical motor. However, due to Honda’s clutch-based system versus Toyota’s planetary gear answer, the Honda system has one functionality that’s merely not potential within the Toyota version–acting as a generator.
But wait a minute, would not the THS system additionally cost the battery when driving the wheels? Why sure, sure it does, however the Toyota system cannot run the engine to simply cost the battery, whereas solely the electrical motor powers the wheels whereas it is being charged. Basically, the Honda hybrid system can act as if it was a range extender EV, and at metropolis speeds, this makes it eat much less gasoline than THS, while additionally being smoother because of the CR-V being 100-percent electrical pushed.
But It’s Not Perfect
Honda
At this level, it seems like I’m giving all of my reward in the direction of the Honda system versus the Toyota one. Well, that is why this phase exists, and I’ve found a couple of as I at present have the CR-V Hybrid with me. The first issues the packaging of the hybrid system, by which Toyota does a greater job in comparison with Honda.
See, the battery must, after all, go someplace, and in the RAV4 Hybrid’s case, that is positioned someplace between the rear seats and the cargo space. The CR-V Hybrid, alternatively, is just uncovered and simply seen beneath the trunk ground, with none semblance of packaging cleanliness. It was merely positioned there with the panels of the CR-V’s physique surrounding it left unpainted.
The final one is restricted to the all-wheel drive (AWD) fashions of each crossover SUVs, and on this case, Toyota takes the lead. Toyota’s THS system has an optional AWD system referred to as E-Four, and this can be a fully digital answer. Electric motors energy the rear wheels when wanted, which suggests there is not any want for a sophisticated driveshaft and a differential for the rear axle. Honda’s system, oddly sufficient, is mechanical, much like the non-hybrid mannequin. This, I believe, is a missed alternative since which means the RAV4’s non-obligatory E-Four system would not’ add issues to the automotive’s long-term possession.
What does General Motors stand to get out of Honda’s newest hydrogen crossover?
Yet, The CR-V Hybrid Is Still Well-Engineered
Isaac Atienza
Overall, nevertheless, you would not go flawed with the Honda CR-V Hybrid. The car itself, in addition to the hybrid system, is so effectively engineered that you do not actually have to consider it while you’re residing with the CR-V Hybrid on a day-to-day foundation. It additionally has its strengths and weaknesses in comparison with the Toyota system, however the place it stands out is how Honda has targeted on one facet which is a minor disadvantage of the Toyota system.
The CR-V Hybrid Leans More To The Enthusiast
Okay, so the driving expertise between the CR-V Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid is similar in that, they’re well-engineered, however hardly what you’d name emotional. I nonetheless assume that the Mazda CX-5tugs the heartstrings higher than these two crossovers. However, if solely the RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid are your decisions, sure elements such because the Honda hybrid drivetrain’s higher engine sound and simulated shift factors make it the sportier alternative. The RAV4 combats this with higher low-speed responsiveness, however the droning nature of its hybrid system will not be to the fanatic’s style.
Also catering barely in the direction of the fans is the CR-V Hybrid driving dynamics. Compared to the RAV4 Hybrid, the CR-V Hybrid has a faster steering ratio that offers it a notion of agility, whereas the suspension tuning and physique management are each top-notch. Honda at all times presents an incredible stability between dealing with and trip consolation, and that is evident right here within the CR-V Hybrid.
In addition, electrified vehicles are inclined to have a bizarre brake chunk within the preliminary 10 p.c of your pedal’s journey attributable to regenerative braking. If you are new to driving Toyota hybrids, you will notice that it takes a couple of miles of driving to regulate to the automotive’s braking habits. Not so within the Honda system. Right off the bat, Honda has tuned the braking system to really feel pure the primary time you start driving the CR-V Hybrid.
How It Stacks Up (On Paper) Against The RAV4 Hybrid
Since I’ve been evaluating the 2 electrified crossovers for this text, this can be a good time to pitch these two automobiles side-by-side when it comes to the numbers.
Honda CR-V Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Specs
Honda CR-V Hybrid
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Engine
2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid
2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid
Horsepower
204 hp
219 hp
Torque
247 lb-ft
N/A
Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined)
43/36/40 MPG (2WD) 40/34/37 MPG (4WD)
41/38/39 MPG
Base MSRP
$34,050
$31,725
(Specs sourced from Honda and Toyota)
In phrases of system energy, the RAV4 Hybrid has a slight advantage, whereas when it comes to effectivity, the front-wheel drive (FWD) model of the CR-V is ever-so-slightly higher. However, as talked about some time in the past, the CR-V Hybrid’s AWD system is a extra rudimentary mechanical setup that is linked mechanically to the engine up entrance, versus the RAV4 Hybrid’s non-obligatory E-Four AWD system that is purely an digital setup.
As a outcome, there is not any gasoline financial system penalty when choosing 4WD within the RAV4 Hybrid, whereas the CR-V Hybrid with AWD takes a two-MPG penalty from its mixed gasoline financial system score. Finally, there’s additionally the matter of price, by which the RAV4 Hybrid has a decrease base worth (albeit with fewer options) than the CR-V Hybrid.
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