The next-generation CR-V is compact, even if it’s seen from afar.
The fifth-generation Honda CR-V, which was revealed at the end of 2016, received a facelift three years later. Our spy team filmed a prototype of Honda CR-V while it was being handled at an European facility. This took place in March 2021.
It’s not surprising that the prototype was camouflaged from the front to the rear, as this is only our first glimpse at the sixth-gen CRV. Despite this, the crossover appears to have increased in size and the rear and front overhangs remain quite large. The overall design seems more angular, and the hood appears longer and flatter than it did before.
The front end features a larger grille and a new pattern. It is flanked with sharper LED headlights which give the impression of a split design. We are tempted to think that the split front lights may be a one-piece design, but we know the disguise is what made the wide strip appear divided.
Side mirrors are now lower than before, which is presumably for better aerodynamics and wind noise reduction. The CR-V’s entire side profile, from the headlights up to the taillights, is marked by a prominent character line just above the handles. Honda was testing a US-spec version of the CR-V with those orange markers on the sides.
It will be interesting to see if Honda will add a third row to the interior, or if the Pilot will continue to be the only SUV with seven seats in the United States. Side note: The current CR-V has a third row in certain markets, but only the US-spec model has seven seats.
Or, the disguise may be playing tricks on us. The prototype does not have the vertical lights that the current CRV has. We’d be willing if those lights were still present, as all generations of the compact crossover share the same taillight layout, beginning with the 1996 model.
Depending on where you are located, the Honda CR-V currently offers hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains. The next-generation model will embrace electrification. Although it’s not clear if Honda plans to make a version without the combustion engine yet, it will be available in the future.
This is the first set of spy photos, so it’s unlikely that an official unveiling of the new CRV will take place anytime soon. It could be available in 2022, and then go on sale in North America in 2023MY.