1 best of : 2017 Honda CR-V Makes its First Auto Show Cameo in L.A.

The Honda CR-V sure has grown up. During its early years, one of its selling points was its portable picnic table. Now, people are comparing it to a Range Rover.

As previously reported, Honda debuted the fifth-generation 2017 CR-V in an unconventional way by first showing it at an intimate event instead of a big auto show. We’ve already shared our first impressions on the popular crossover (and a First Drive is coming soon). But we spent more time with it here in Los Angeles, where it made its first auto show appearance, and discovered a few more tidbits.

For starters, the CR-V is offered with a wood-like trim for the first time ever. It may be plastic, but it looks premium thanks to its matte finish and copper-like hue. One showgoer was a big fan, saying it looked better than the (real) wood trim he saw in a Range Rover.

Next up are the two new USB ports for rear passengers. That brings the total to four USB ports inside the vehicle, including two, high-powered 2.5-watt units. Audiophiles will also appreciate the updated premium sound system, which now has nine speakers, including separate tweeters for rear passengers.

The 2017 Honda CR-V is all new, riding on the same platform as the Civic. It’s longer and taller, and offers two engine choices including Honda’s 1.5-liter turbo-four (the 2.4-liter naturally aspirated I-4 carries over).

There’s a lot more tech as well. Apple Carplay and Android Auto is standard equipment, and an optional hands-free power liftgate is a first for the automaker. Honda’s suite of advanced safety tech is also available, including blind-spot monitoring and forward collision prevention. The 2017 CR-V is expected to go on sale by the end of this year, with the automaker set to announce pricing and fuel economy details before that.