In the automotive industry, to pause is to lose out on customers. And in continuing its motto for continuous advancement, Honda Cars Philippines Inc. recently launched the 2010 CR-V as an answer for fast paced times.

Now billed as an urban crossover vehicle, the CR-V radiates urbane styling and world class performance, all in a package that ably goes well with various lifestyles. Those looking for a vehicle that looks good and exudes sophistication will admire the unit's exterior - a new two-step front grille (with honeycomb design), slightly extended bumpers (front and rear) and new allow wheel designs (including a look similar to that on the current Honda Jazz) blend seamlessly with the SUV's clear-cut lines and finish resembling premium brand vehicles for increased refinement. If that's not enough, a choice of Taffeta White (available only for the 2.0L m/t and a/t variants) or Urban Titanium (available across the model range) adds flair to the CR-V's looks.

Those looking for a comfortable cabin that doubles as living quarters will find the CR-V's interior a fun place to reside. The overall spacious look of its immediate predecessor was retained, along with an ergonomic dashboard that has all readouts, buttons, knobs and levers within easy read and reach of front occupants. Also retained were a dual level glovebox, industrial look door handles and pockets, and a large center console (with auxiliary port and accessory socket) that can swallow 12 CD cases stacked side by side. The 2-DIN head unit now sports a new layout, with the on/off button at the leftmost (read: nine o'clock to ten o'clock) end of the middle dashboard and a bevy of buttons that can toggle between menus and preset radio stations. Storage-wise, the CR-V offers four ways to store cargo, thanks to 40:20:40 split type rear seats (and a tonneau cover for security) plus front seat backrests that can fold flat and parallel to the rear bench's thigh cushions.

What's under the hood is another representation of fast paced times, as the CR-V still totes two i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable valve Timing and Electronic Control)-shod inline four engines, either displacing 2.0L or 2.4L The former comes in front wheel drive only, puts out 148 hp and 190 NM of torque and is either mated to a six-speed stick shift or a five-speed slushbox (or a/t). The latter is hooked up to Honda's proprietary Realtime four wheel drive (which switches to four wheel drive, depending on road conditions) and a five-speed a/t, and has 168 hp and 218 NM of torque on tap. Both CR-V engines also have the cutting edge in tree hugging technology - the emissions of both powerplants are Euro IV-rated, and the use of LAF (linear air-fuel) sensors and O2 sensors in line with the ECU reduces hazardous elements from the exhaust gases and simultaneously using less precious metals in the catalytic converter.

The safety features also display continuous advancement. The high intensity discharge (HID) headlights have an auto leveling feature that allows the driver to see more of what's ahead at night. Variable speed intermittent wipers make it easier to view what's at the front during rainy times. ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution work in tandem with Vehicle Stability Assist to keep the CR-V planted on the road and avoid accidents entirely (via superior stopping power). Lastly, the G-Force Control (or G-CON) technology, dual airbags (plus side airbags for the 2.4L version) and active front headrests combine to keep occupants safe, without serious injury to the torso or the neck.

The 2010 Honda CR-V's cutting edge features and forward motion ability make it a great answer for urbanites looking for the complete answer to all their needs. You can either get it for P 1.275 million (2.0L FWD six-speed manual), P 1.325 million (2.0L FWD five-speed automatic) or P 1.525 million (2.4L 4WD five-speed automatic). Colors include Urban Titanium, Crystal Black, Taffeta White (2.0L only), Sparkle Gray (2.0L only), Polished Metal (2.4L only) and Brilliant White Pearl (P 1.545 million, 2.4L only).

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