Honda has taken the plunge and revealed a hybrid-powered SUV. The CR-V hybrid performance system uses intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD).

This system features two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack and works in conjunction with a 2,0-litre i-VTEC engine capable of producing 135 kW and 315 N.m.

In respect to efficiency, the front-wheel-drive version is claimed to sip 5,3 L/100 km compared with 5,5 L/100 km for the all-wheel-drive variant.

As with the regular CR-V, the transmission remains a smooth-operating fixed-gear ratio CVT rather than a conventional torque-converter transmission. The i-MMD technology is capable of automatically switching the drivetrain configuration between three modes: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive.

For urban driving scenarios, the CR-V Hybrid is said to transition between Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive for optimum efficiency. When in Hybrid Drive excess power from the petrol-powered motor can be diverted to recharge the battery.

Production of the 2019 Honda CR-V Hybrid for European markets is set to start in October 2018.

Original article from Car