The sixth-generation Honda CR-V has been launched in Japan, more than three years after it first made its global debut way back in July 2022 – we got it in December 2023. This marks the proper return of the nameplate to Honda’s home market after the SUV was dropped following low sales of the fifth-generation model – the ZR-V filled the void created by the CR-V’s temporary absence. We say proper return because the sixth-generation CR-V did technically go on sale in Japan, albeit in the form of the low-volume e:FCEV that was sold from July 2024 on a lease basis to local governments and companies looking to promote fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). This one is more mass market, although Honda is setting a target volume of 400 units a month – we sell a lot more CR-Vs. Japan gets CR-V in two hybrid trim levels, starting with the e:HEV RS that retails for 5,122,700 yen (about RM128k) with front-wheel drive, or 5,392,200 yen (RM134k) with all-wheel drive – prices are inclusive of consumption tax. There’s also the e:HEV RS Black Edition that is AWD only and sells for 5,779,400 yen (RM144k). Both FWD and AWD powertrains feature a 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four petrol engine running on the Atkinson cycle that serves up 148 PS (109 kW) and 183 Nm of torque. This is augmented by dual electric motors, one acting as a generator while the other rated at 184 PS (135 kW) and 335 Nm is a traction motor. There’s also an electric continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) that can clutch the engine in to directly drive the wheels at higher loads. Honda Sensing is standard across the entire range, with the Black Edition gaining additional functions such as front cross traffic alert, lane change collision prevention and lane change assist. The range-topper also comes with a head-up display, a powered panoramic sunroof, front seat ventilation, 19-inch wheels, Crystal Black Pearl exterior accents, piano black and dark silver interior garnish as well as black interior pillars and headlining. Other touted features of the CR-V include a nine-inch Honda Connect infotainment system with Google built-in, a 60-watt wireless charging pad, a Bose sound system, selectable drive modes (Individual, Sport, Normal, Econ and Snow). The SUV can be had in Platinum White Pearl, Slate Gray Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Blazing Red Pearl and Canyon River Blue Metallic, some of which are cost options. Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Atome, Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.