Hey car lovers! Clocking 90,000 kilometers on a car is a big deal, especially in India where road conditions can be challenging. But guess what? My trusty Honda CR-V just crossed that mark, and it feels fantastic! This is a significant milestone because I typically trade-in my vehicles around 80,000-85,000 kms. However, the CR-V has been so dependable and well-built that I haven’t encountered a single major issue yet. It drives and looks just as good as new!
While I have it listed on classifieds, I’m honestly hesitant to let it go. Finding a worthy replacement that offers the same level of performance and value seems nearly impossible. But let’s delve deeper into the recent 90,000-kilometer service experience and the car’s overall ownership journey.
A Reasonable Service Cost for Exceptional Performance
The 90,000-kilometer service bill came in at a very reasonable ₹7,992, which is excellent for the quality of work performed. This service included a thorough inspection, replacement of necessary fluids and filters, and some adjustments to address minor concerns.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Safety: Replacing the Brake Pads
Even though the existing brake pads had some life left (front: 3.8mm, limit: 1.6mm; rear: 4.2mm, limit: 1mm), I opted for a precautionary replacement. These were the original pads that came with the car, and considering the importance of braking performance, I felt it was best to err on the side of caution. The new pads are currently on order and will be installed soon.
Addressing the Occasional Creak: A Successful Service Fix
One minor annoyance I had been experiencing was a slight creaking sound from the seats. Thankfully, the service team managed to significantly reduce this issue by tightening the seat components. While there might be a faint creak if you listen very closely, it’s a vast improvement and no longer a major concern.
Fuel Efficiency Champion: The 1.6L Diesel Engine Delivers Big
While the 1.6L diesel engine might not be a powerhouse in terms of raw acceleration, it shines in the area of fuel efficiency. Over the entire 90,000 kilometers, I’ve consistently achieved an average mileage of over 17 kmpl! This is a remarkable feat, especially considering the mix of city and highway driving I do.
The Magic of the 9-Speed Gearbox: Cruising in Peace
The 9-speed gearbox plays a pivotal role in the CR-V’s fuel efficiency. At highway cruising speeds of around 140 kmph, the engine effortlessly shifts into 9th gear, keeping the RPMs between a very economical 1,800-2,000. This translates to a remarkably quiet and comfortable driving experience on long journeys.
Proof in the Numbers: My Frugal Friend – The Trip Meter
To illustrate the CR-V’s fuel efficiency prowess, I’ve included a picture of the trip meter, which resets every 10,000 kilometers. As you can see, the average fuel consumption over the last 7,600 kilometers has been a phenomenal 18 kmpl! This is a testament to the car’s ability to stretch every liter of diesel further.
A Multi-Car Garage: The CR-V Stands Out
Beyond the CR-V, my fleet includes a 2018 Fortuner (97,000 kilometers), a 2017 Honda City (62,000 kilometers), a 2018 BMW 3 Series Limo (diesel, 18,000 kilometers), and a 2021 Alto CNG (18,000 kilometers). Interestingly, both the CR-V and the Fortuner pose a unique challenge. They continue to perform flawlessly, making it incredibly difficult to find compelling replacements!
The Final Verdict: A Reliable and Fuel-Efficient Companion
My experience with the Honda CR-V has been nothing short of exceptional. It’s a car that excels in reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall driving comfort. The recent 90,000-kilometer service reinforced this positive impression, with a reasonable cost and effective solutions to minor concerns. As for the future, while I’m open to exploring new options, finding a worthy successor to the CR-V won’t be an easy feat.
