Temple of VTEC Rumors and News - Honda CR-V Retains Innovative Standard Features and Adds More for 2004

Torrance, Calif. 10/06/2003 -- The second-generation CR-V remains one of the most popular compact class sport-utility on the road, offering a unique blend of SUV versatility, top level safety performance, car-like handling and Honda quality. For 2004, the CR-V adds a passenger-side power door lock switch to all trim levels and an improved Saddle interior color scheme.

The 2004 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine producing160-horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque. Fuel economy remains an impressive EPA estimated 22/26 mpg city/hwy, and all models are certified to meet the LEV-II (Low Emission Vehicle) emission standard.

The CR-V utilizes a 4-wheel independent suspension system that employs a Toe Control Link MacPherson strut front suspension for exceptional handling, ride quality and packaging efficiency. In the rear, the CR-V is equipped with a reactive compact double wishbone suspension that helps provide additional cargo space.

Safety features on the CR-V include advance dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, standard side airbags on EX models (available on LX) and front seatbelts with load limiters and seatbelt 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. These advanced features helped the CR-V earn the highest rating of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for both front and side impacts.

The cargo area of the CR-V measures a generous 72.0 cu. ft. With the fold-and-tumble rear seats stowed, the CR-V can accommodate two full-size mountain bikes with no difficulty. The 60/40 split rear seats offer six inches of fore and aft travel to maximize either cargo or passenger space. The large rear cargo floor also doubles as a portable picnic table with folding legs. In front, the center console mounted storage area is now large enough to accommodate music CDs.

The 2004 CR-V is offered in well-appointed LX, LX 4WD and EX 4WD trim levels. All models include dual mirrors, intermittent front and rear window wipers and washers, air conditioning with Micron Air-Filtration, power windows with auto down and auto up driver's window, power door locks, floormats, engine immobilizer and anti-theft system, cruise control, two-texture seating surfaces, sunglass holder and rear coat hooks.

The LX trim level incorporates an AM/FM/cassette/CD player with four speakers. The EX trim includes an AM/FM/cassette/6-CD changer with six speakers, a power moonroof and rear privacy glass. Honda's Real Time' 4WD is standard on the EX trim and available on the LX. Exterior and interior color combinations for the CR-V remain the same from the 2003 model year.