Honda, likely did not anticipate falling behind in the domestic plug-in hybrid segment despite being a pioneer in the parallel and series hybrid mode. However, with the introduction of the new generation CR-V e:PHEV (hereafter referred to as CR-V plug-in hybrid), it is actively integrating into the local Chinese supply chain. Not only has the price dropped, but efforts are also being made to address inherent issues while reducing costs.
For instance, the battery has been switched from Honda's own lithium battery to CATL's ternary lithium, resulting in lower costs and increased density. The battery capacity has increased to 17.7 kWh, with a WLTC pure electric range of 73 kilometers. Compared to the Song PLUS DMi's 85 kilometers using an 18.3 kWh battery, their performance is similar. It has reached the top tier standard for domestic plug-in hybrid vehicles.
Alongside these changes, the new battery and electronic control systems have improved the vehicle's structure. The fuel tank capacity has been increased to 46.5L, offering a full fuel and electric range of 916 kilometers. Although, compared to domestic brands which often exceed 1200 kilometers, there seems to be a gap. However, it should be noted that joint venture brands are usually more conservative with key data, having less discrepancy.
Furthermore, under the fourth-generation iMMD system, the 2.0L Atkinson engine has transitioned from multi-point fuel injection to direct injection, with the compression ratio being increased from 13.5 to 13.9, and power boosted from 146 to 150 horsepower. The fuel consumption in the battery charging state has decreased from 6L to 5.5L.
From an actual driving perspective, there is not much difference from the previous model. At medium and low speeds, electric power is used most of the time, while the engine engagement on highways still results in noticeable noise and vibrations. However, due to dual-speed direct drive of the engine, both high and low-speed gears offer improved NVH compared to the previous model. Overall, the power performance and energy consumption meet expectations. In comparison, the combined capacity of the 150-horsepower engine and 184-horsepower electric motor, along with dual-speed direct drive, makes this powertrain very competitive among domestic plug-in hybrids.
Currently, the CR-V plug-in hybrid's issue is still its high price. In the domestic plug-in hybrid camp, models with similar power and energy levels are available at several tens of thousands less. Before the previous generation CR-V plug-in hybrid was discontinued, an 80,000 discount was offered (which quickly sold out), and regular discounts were over 60,000. Although the new model has reduced in price and improved in product strength, overcoming the image of the previous model takes time. Especially this year, with the substantial pressure on first-tier joint venture independent brands, there is an intensified expectation for price reductions.
If a reduction of two to three thousand can be achieved, it could overlap with the pricing of mid-sized SUVs such as Tang and the Defender 07, potentially diverting some customers. If the price can drop by over 50,000, like the previous model, to below 200,000, it would pose a strong challenge to domestic plug-in hybrids. It's up to Honda to see if they have the resolve to do so.
