HOT-SELLING HONDA CR-V OUTPERFORMS THE COMPETITION:

ADDS 20 HORSES FOR 1999

TORRANCE, Calif. - When the sporty, fun-to-drive CR-V hit showrooms in 1997 as the first Honda-designed and engineered sport utility vehicle (SUV), it quickly became the top-selling SUV in its class. For 1999, the CR-V adds 20 horsepower to help it continue outperforming the competition.

The all-aluminum 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC powerplant gets an increase in compression ratio and tuning of the intake and exhaust systems to produce 146 horsepower.

The CR-V lineup includes the two-wheel drive (2WD) LX equipped with a 4-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive (4WD) models in both LX and EX trim levels with a choice of a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The CR-Vs automatic transmission features Honda's patented Grade Logic Control, which selects and holds the appropriate gear when traveling up or down hills to reduce gear hunting. The 1999 CR-V features a newly designed column shifter with an overdrive switch.

Four-wheel drive models feature Honda's innovative Real Time 4WD system. When driving under normal conditions, Real Time 4WD operates in front-wheel drive mode to provide smooth, quiet, fuel-efficient performance. For sure-footed grip on slippery road surfaces, such as mud or snow, Real Time 4WD automatically engages to distribute power to both front and rear wheels.

The CR-V's double-wishbone suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars, provides a responsive, comfortable ride over a wide range of surfaces both on and off the road.

The CR-V offers one of the largest interiors in its class, with 98 cu. ft. of interior passenger volume. Headroom is plentiful with 40.5 inches in front and 39.1 inches in the rear. Visibility is optimized with CR-V's large greenhouse design, ensuring confidence during lane changes and parking maneuvers.

The rear cargo compartment cover converts to a clever fold-out picnic table. All CR-Vs also include a fold-down center tray table between the driver and passenger seats. Standard features include both a front and a rear 12-volt accessory power outlet. All '99 model CR-Vs include dual airbags; air conditioning; AM/FM stereo; power door locks, windows and mirrors; cruise control; rear window wiper/washer; a micron air filtration system and 50/50 split fold-down rear seatbacks. New for 1999 are illuminated power window switches, a more durable spare tire cover, new interior seat material, adjustable passenger armrests and rear cup holders in the door panels.

The CR-V 4WD EX comes equipped with anti-lock brakes, 15-inch alloy wheels, AM/FM stereo with CD player and a remote entry system. Both the 15-inch alloy wheels and remote entry system are optional in LX trim models.

With its impressive list of standard features, competitive price, legendary Honda quality and more powerful engine, the hot-selling CR-V will continue to outperform the competition.