Page 38 - link magazine

38 swindonlink.com • April 2010
Built in Swindon - and I want one

Honda’s popular British-built CR-V has been revamped for 2010 with enhanced styling, a new powertrain and transmission – and when we
were asked if we’d like to try one for a week, how could we refuse, writes Link publisher Roger Ogle.
With all the travails in the motor the strain, whilst driving around the
industry, it was important to put to town was easy. Parking the bigger
the test the company’s investment vehicle was a bit of a worry but
in the town and its confi dence in its the rear parking sensors ensured
staff. And whilst industry analysts no mishaps.
suggest the SUVs market is declin- Honda has also launched a new
ing, Honda say that CR-V sales are quieter i-DTEC diesel engine ver-
strong and the new model builds on sion with increased power and
the strengths developed over the torque, lower NOx and particulates,
years since the range was launched. and a good CO2 emissions package.
Being used to smaller cars, it was The comfortable cabin is well
great the CR-V arrived on the day equipped with a somewhat daunt-
the March edition was delivered ing sat-nav audio unit, complete
from the printers. Transporting with USB and iPod connections.
2,500 magazines from the drop-off Increased sound deadening around
point in Haydon Wick is always a the engine and throughout the
struggle, but it was pure joy this vehicle adds to the high-quality
time as the Honda hauled them up refi nement of the CR-V, making it
the hill to Akers Way as if there was even quieter to drive.
nothing on board. Its practicality came into its own
The CR-V handled like a saloon later in the trial when a visit to the
and the higher seating position recycling centre was needed. Fold-
provides commanding visibility. ing the rear seats and removing the
Steering is precise and the low rear storage shelf revealed a huge
centre of gravity gives it a sense of carrying space. Spring cleaning
purpose, helped by strong mono- enthusiasm took over and two trips
coque construction; there is no sense were needed.
of wallowing uncertainty that SUVs Honda of the UK Manufactur-
can suffer from. Braking was clear ing, Ltd. (HUM) say their Swindon Three famous Swindon brands in one shot
and certain. factory is a brilliant example of ing the CR-V since 2000 and their recognised for its high-specifi cation
The smooth running petrol en- engineering excellence in Britain. product is now exported to over 60 equipment levels and sector-
gine made a motorway trip relaxing, Honda’s associates at the factory countries, along with the Civic and leading residual values, and the
especially with the sixth gear taking in South Marston have been build- Jazz models. new car’s value-for-money package
HUM believe this ‘built in Britain’ should continue to impress.
message is very important for some On the aside, most car buying
customers and is a key factor in their decisions are usually made after
purchase decision. After produc- many hours research and forecourt
tion of the Jazz model started in study but only a cursory test drive,
Swindon in the Autumn, customers rarely lasting more than 15 minutes.
have specifi cally requested British- What if manufacturers could offer
built models customers the chance to test their
Like all Hondas, the CR-V is vehicles over a longer period?

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