The Honda CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic, produced between 2017 and 2019, represents a significant iteration of Honda’s popular compact SUV. Falling within the fifth generation (CR-V V) of the CR-V lineage, this variant was primarily aimed at the European market, offering a blend of fuel efficiency and practicality. It occupied a mid-range position in the CR-V V lineup, slotting between the lower-powered petrol engines and the more expensive, higher-output diesel options. The CR-V V series, built on the global Honda platform, aimed to provide increased space, improved refinement, and advanced technology compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | CR-V |
| Generation | CR-V V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i-DTEC (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 72 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm, 180.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N16A2 |
| Engine displacement | 1597 cm3 (97.45 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | i-DTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.65 l (5.97 US qt | 4.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1666 kg (3672.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 150 l (5.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 936 l (33.05 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4592 mm (180.79 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Height | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2660 mm (104.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 9 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 235/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic is the N16A2 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output, and a sophisticated diesel commonrail fuel injection system. The i-DTEC valvetrain optimizes combustion efficiency and reduces particulate matter. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. Paired with this engine is a nine-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth shifts and optimize fuel economy. This transmission was a relatively new design for Honda at the time, offering a wider gear ratio spread than traditional automatic gearboxes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic CR-V offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but it won’t provide the briskness of the petrol or higher-output diesel variants. The nine-speed automatic transmission generally shifts smoothly, although some drivers have reported occasional hesitation at lower speeds. The torque delivery is relatively flat, making it suitable for towing and carrying loads. Compared to the six-speed manual version of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness but gains convenience. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, keeping engine speeds low during cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, a navigation system, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Dashboard configuration was consistent across the range, featuring a modern and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The CR-V V utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front suspension incorporates a coil spring and anti-roll bar to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its competitors and that the automatic transmission could occasionally feel hesitant. Compared to the 1.5-liter petrol engine, the 1.6 i-DTEC offered significantly better fuel economy but less overall power. Against the higher-output 2.0-liter diesel, it provided a more affordable entry point but sacrificed performance. The 1.6 i-DTEC was positioned as a practical and economical choice for drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday usability.
Legacy
The Honda CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The N16A2 engine, while not without its quirks, is generally considered durable and capable of high mileage with proper maintenance. The nine-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be reasonably reliable, although some owners have reported issues with software glitches. Today, these CR-Vs represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, fuel-efficient, and well-equipped SUV. Regular servicing, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial to maintaining the longevity of this powertrain. The CR-V V continues to be a popular choice in the used car market, known for its practicality and dependability.
