The Honda CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC AWD, produced from 2017 to 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, where diesel engines held considerable appeal. It offered a blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability, positioning itself as a versatile family vehicle. This specific configuration, combining the 1.6-liter diesel engine with a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive, occupied a middle ground in the CR-V V lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy compared to the petrol options and higher-powered diesel trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | CR-V |
| Generation | CR-V V |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i-DTEC (160 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 100.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N16A4 |
| 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 | 1700 kg (3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2170 kg (4784.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 470 kg (1036.17 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1110 l (39.2 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2146 l (75.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| Length | 4587 mm (180.59 in.) |
| Width | 1854 mm (72.99 in.) |
| Height | 1679 mm (66.1 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2659 mm (104.69 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1618 mm (63.7 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/65 R17; 225/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC AWD is the N16A4 engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a sophisticated common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. Honda’s i-DTEC technology incorporates a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and advanced exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems to minimize nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The engine produces 160 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque at just 2000 rpm. This torque output is a key characteristic of the engine, providing strong pulling power at lower engine speeds. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission, which effectively manages the power delivery and contributes to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 i-DTEC AWD CR-V offers a composed and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The readily available torque makes overtaking maneuvers relatively effortless. The six-speed manual transmission allows for precise control, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s characteristics. Compared to the petrol-powered CR-V variants, the diesel offers significantly better fuel economy and a more relaxed driving experience, particularly on longer journeys. However, it lacks the immediate responsiveness of the petrol engines. Compared to the higher-output 2.0 i-DTEC models, the 1.6 i-DTEC feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions, making it a capable vehicle for year-round use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC AWD was typically offered in well-equipped trim levels. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base trims, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The CR-V V utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. The all-wheel-drive system employs a real-time system that automatically distributes torque between the front and rear wheels as needed, enhancing traction and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is responsive and provides adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight and performance. Electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC AWD was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, the CR-V offered a more spacious interior and a more refined driving experience. Its fuel economy was competitive with other diesel-powered SUVs in its class. Reliability was also a strong point, with Honda having a reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles.
Legacy
The 1.6 i-DTEC engine, while not without its critics regarding noise and occasional DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) issues, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain when properly maintained. The CR-V V 1.6 i-DTEC AWD remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and practical SUV with all-wheel-drive capability. Its reputation for reliability and Honda’s strong brand image contribute to its continued desirability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced according to Honda’s recommendations.
