Last month, Honda Malaysia launched the 2020 Honda CR-V facelift. While it may look largely identical, there a few revisions worthy of note.

Firstly, the revised model lineup with only three variants available to choose from compared to four previously. Prices (OTR without insurance and SST, valid until 31 December 2020) start from RM 139,913 to RM 162,910 for the range-topping 1.5 TC-P 4WD variant.

Interestingly, the 2020 Honda CR-V facelift is actually cheaper across the range than the pre-facelift model.

Comparing the same SST-free prices, the 2.0 2WD variant is about RM 5k cheaper than before and the 1.5 TC-P is cheaper by a whopping RM 10k (prices taken without SST). The 1.5 TC-P 4WD is new, replacing the previous 1.5 TC 4WD.

No changes for the powertrain. The entry level variant carries on the 2.0-litre SOHC i-VTEC naturally aspirated engine that makes 154 PS and 189 Nm of torque, powering the front wheels via a CVT.

And the turbocharged variants feature a 1.5-litre DOHC VTEC turbo that makes 193 PS/243 Nm. Power goes to either the front wheels or all four corners via a CVT.

Changes on the exterior are subtle. The front features more black plastic bits and a silver ‘jawline’, lending the car a more angular and wider appearance. Grille design remains largely the same but finished in gloss black.

There are sequential indicators up front and Honda has given the headlights and tail lights a darker, almost smoked-like tint. The rear bumper gets a silver trim complementing the front and the exhaust tips are trapezoidal.

The 2.0 2WD variant carries on with the 17-inch wheel with the same design while the turbocharged variants get a new 18-inch wheels. The power tailgate, which is exclusive for the turbocharged variants, now features a hands-free opening function.

Inside, there are USB ports below the gear lever for easier access, compared to the array of ports in centre storage in the pre-facelift model.

All variants now get Honda LaneWatch, which is Honda’s blind spot camera for the passenger side. Turbocharged variants get Honda SENSING that bundles:

• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
• Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Low Speed Follow (LSF)
• Auto High Beam (AHB)

Lastly, there’s a new Platinum White Pearl colour, which replaces Obsidian Blue Pearl in the pre-facelift model.

So, what do you think of the changes to the Honda CR-V in Malaysia? Let us know in the comments section below.