Photo: Honda via Response JP
Honda's CR-V is still one of the most popular models in the compact utility segment. However, it's facing competition of the stiff and varied kind. Toyota just introduced the RAV4 Hybrid, while Kia's Niro crossover comes with a plug-in beside the regular electrified version.
The CR-V will start fighting back when the next generation arrives. Development has already begun in America, with engineers using an enlarged copy of the all-new Civic sedan's platform.
Interestingly, even though the Civic has dropped the hybrid version altogether, choosing the turbocharged fuel-saving route, its crossover cousin will not. According to Indian Autos Blog, a Japanese official has hinted at a plug-in version of the CR-V that will be powered by a 2-liter engine.
The only direct rival we can think of is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, recently revealed in New York with a fresh look. However, as we've mentioned in the beginning, the RAV4 now has a hybrid version. Even the BMW X1 is getting a plug-in version that's about to be introduced later this year.
The regular version of the CR-V will include a turbocharged gasoline engine, something Hyundai already offers in the American Tucson model. Does the 1.5-liter Turbo VTEC have enough grunt to power an entry-level CR-V and still save fuel? We think so. Another possibility is that the 2.0-liter turbo used by the Civic Type R will be de-tuned and used to show the Mercedes GLA who's boss. The Europeans will have to make do with the updated version of the 1.6-liter single and twin-turbo diesels.
The styling will supposedly mirror that of the 2016 Civic, copying its taillight design and LED front end. The rendering above is apparently an official one, a rough sketch that suggests a Volvo-like look. Not that we had any doubt Honda can make a sharp-looking vehicle.
Interestingly, even though the Civic has dropped the hybrid version altogether, choosing the turbocharged fuel-saving route, its crossover cousin will not. According to Indian Autos Blog, a Japanese official has hinted at a plug-in version of the CR-V that will be powered by a 2-liter engine.
The only direct rival we can think of is the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, recently revealed in New York with a fresh look. However, as we've mentioned in the beginning, the RAV4 now has a hybrid version. Even the BMW X1 is getting a plug-in version that's about to be introduced later this year.
The regular version of the CR-V will include a turbocharged gasoline engine, something Hyundai already offers in the American Tucson model. Does the 1.5-liter Turbo VTEC have enough grunt to power an entry-level CR-V and still save fuel? We think so. Another possibility is that the 2.0-liter turbo used by the Civic Type R will be de-tuned and used to show the Mercedes GLA who's boss. The Europeans will have to make do with the updated version of the 1.6-liter single and twin-turbo diesels.
The styling will supposedly mirror that of the 2016 Civic, copying its taillight design and LED front end. The rendering above is apparently an official one, a rough sketch that suggests a Volvo-like look. Not that we had any doubt Honda can make a sharp-looking vehicle.
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