HONDA is readying a compact version of the Honda CR-V SUV model, currently built in Swindon.
Honda says the new CR-V has been enthusiastically received.
However, Honda said it had realised it needs a more compact version to sit below the big CR-V – in the same way that Audi has the Q5 and Q3 SUV models or Nissan the Qashqai and Juke models.
The compact Honda CR-V will launch in late 2014.
The compact Honda SUV follows on from a roll out of new Honda models, including low emission and company car tax beating 1.6 diesel versions of the Civic and CR-V.
Honda new model roll out
- New Honda Civic 1.6 Diesel, January 2013
- New Honda CR-V 1.6 Diesel, Autumn 2013
- New Honda Civic Estate, Spring 2014
- New Honda compact SUV, late 2014
- New Honda 2.0T Type R, 2015
The new 120PS Honda Civic 1.6D will have CO2 emissions of 94g/km, giving the hatchback over 78mpg. For the 2013/14 tax year, the Honda Civic 1.6 diesel will slot into the 13% company car tax band.
No word yet on the Honda CR-V 1.6 diesel’s emissions, except that Honda tells us they aim to be below 120g/km.
“The new 1.6 diesel Civic really gives us the opportunity to go and talk once more to small businesses and SMEs with a small fleet,” said Lee Wheeler, head of corporate sales, Honda.
“With its combination of performance and low emissions we think the car will be a real winner with small businesses.”
Lee said that Honda’s SME programme was going to be beefed up in 2013, too, with changes to it Corporate Charter.
“For example we’ll be able to offer MOTs at £35 to SME customers as well as our larger customers, and there will be price promises on labour rates and servicing and improved after sales care,” said Lee.
Honda has 40 specialist SME small fleet specialist outlets who are geared up for small businesses. “You can find them on the Honda UK website – put your details in and the site will direct you to your nearest business specialist,” Lee added.