Images: Honda RD1.I CR-V (1997-98)
Released in September 1997, the Honda RD1 Series I (RD1.I) CR-V was a compact, all-wheel drive SUV. Manufactured at Honda’s Sayama plant in Japan, the CR-V was powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission; the latter had ‘Grade Logic Control’ which would hold a lower gear while climbing a steep grade and also downshift when traveling downhill for greater engine braking… Read full Honda RD1 CR-V review
Images: Honda RD1.II CR-V (1999-01)
Released in March 1999, the Honda RD1 Series II (RD1.II) CR-V introduced an expanded range that consisted of standard and Sport variants. The RD1.II CR-V was also more powerful due to a revised air intake system and offered improved occupant protection as the front body structure provided a more progressive front crumple zone. The Honda RD1.II CR-V could be identified by its new bumpers and rear-mounted micro radio aerial. Inside, there were new seat fabrics, fold-out cupholders in the rear doors and models with automatic transmissions had a fold-down front passenger armrest; these automatic models also had an ‘overdrive’ button on the end of the steering-column gear lever which enabled easy switching between third and fourth gears.
