When it comes to buying an SUV, the turning circle might not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it's a crucial factor when navigating tight spaces and making U-turns in traffic. The Honda CR-V has been a popular choice in the compact SUV segment for years, and its turning circle size plays a significant role for those in search of a nimble urban SUV. In this article, we will be digging deeper into the Honda CR-V's turning circle over various generations, how it compares to other Honda models, and how it stacks up against its competition.
Over the years, the Honda CR-V has gone through multiple generations, with each iteration improving and evolving. From CR-V 1.Generation 1996-1999 to the current 5.Generation 2018-now, the turning circle has experienced gradual changes. Data available for the turning circle begins with 3.Generation 2007-2010 measuring 11.8 meters; this value remained consistent through 4.Generation 2012-2015. The 4.Generation (1. Facelift) 2015-2018 saw a slight increase in turning circle size to 11.9 meters, while the current 5.Generation 2018-now marks a decrease down to 11.4 meters. As the generations progressed, the CR-V adapted to the demands of the modern driver, and the turning circle size evolved correspondingly.
Within Honda's lineup, the CR-V sits right in the middle of the turning circle spectrum. The smallest turning circle belongs to the Honda e at 9.2 meters, followed by the Honda Jazz (10.7 meters) and the Honda HR-V (11 meters). While the CR-V (11.4 meters) does boast a smaller turning circle than the Honda Civic Type R (12.1 meters) and the Honda NSX (12.1 meters), it's still not the most nimble in the lineup. Therefore, the CR-V presents a compelling middle-ground option for drivers who require a balance between a tight turning circle and the features offered by an SUV.
Now, let's see how the Honda CR-V's turning circle measures up against its nearest rivals. Vehicles such as the Ford Puma and SsangYong Tivoli both have a smaller turning circle of 10.6 meters, but their wheelbases and overall lengths are noticeably shorter, which could mean a compromise on interior space. The Toyota RAV4 and KIA Sportage match the CR-V's turning circle at 11.4 and 11 meters, respectively, but the RAV4 has a longer wheelbase and overall length. On the other hand, vehicles such as the Mazda CX-5 (11.7 meters), VW Tiguan (11.5 meters), and Audi Q3 (11.8 meters) have larger turning circles but also offer more extensive interior spaces.