The Honda CR-V III (facelift 2009) 2.2 i-DTEC with 150 horsepower and an automatic transmission represents a significant iteration of Honda’s popular compact SUV. Introduced in 2010 and continuing through 2012, this variant was primarily aimed at the European market, where diesel engines and all-wheel drive systems were highly sought after in the SUV segment. It built upon the foundation of the third-generation CR-V (introduced in 2006), incorporating styling updates and, crucially, a more refined and efficient diesel powertrain. This particular configuration offered a balance between fuel economy, practicality, and all-weather capability, making it a compelling choice for families and individuals alike.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | CR-V |
| Generation | CR-V III (facelift 2009) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i-DTEC (150 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 195 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 187 km/h (116.2 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp, 87.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 205 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 68.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2000-2750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N22B3 |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96.9 mm (3.81 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1707-1773 kg (3763.29 – 3908.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 447-513 kg (985.47 – 1130.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 524 l (18.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1532 l (54.1 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4574 mm (180.08 in.) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2091 mm (82.32 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1565-1570 mm (61.61 – 61.81 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565-1585 mm (61.61 – 62.4 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 293 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 302 mm |
| 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; 245/45 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 17; 7J x 18; 7.5J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this CR-V variant is the Honda N22B3 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, part of Honda’s ‘i-DTEC’ series, was designed for efficiency and low emissions. It features a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The N22B3 utilizes a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and an intercooler to boost power and torque. The engine also incorporates a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards. The 5-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern unit, was known for its reliability and smooth operation. It’s a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 hp and 350 Nm of torque provided by the N22B3 engine, coupled with the automatic transmission, resulted in a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.1 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, did exhibit some hesitation during quick acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it a suitable vehicle for year-round use. Compared to the 2.4-liter petrol version, the 2.2 i-DTEC offered significantly better fuel economy and more low-end torque, making it more practical for towing and driving in hilly terrain. However, the petrol engine provided quicker acceleration and a more refined engine note.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic CR-V typically came with a good level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, a CD player with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘ES’ or ‘EX’ variants, added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and a navigation system. Safety features included ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and multiple airbags.
Chassis & Braking
The CR-V III utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was electrically assisted, offering light and precise control. The all-wheel-drive system employed a real-time system, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear wheels as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic CR-V was well-received in Europe, particularly by buyers who prioritized fuel economy and practicality. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reliable powertrain. However, some noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to competitors like the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage, the CR-V offered a more refined driving experience and a reputation for long-term reliability. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 31.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The Honda N22B3 engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a durable and reliable unit. While DPF issues could arise with infrequent long journeys, regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel helped to mitigate these problems. Today, the CR-V III 2.2 i-DTEC Automatic remains a popular choice in the used car market, offering a good balance of practicality, reliability, and affordability. Its reputation for dependability and relatively low running costs continue to make it a compelling option for buyers seeking a versatile and economical SUV.
