Honda CR-V prototype photos revealed!

Honda has revealed the European prototype pictures of the upcoming CR-V model. The CR-V model will be unveiled at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March 2012. Expect the new CR-V to hit the Indian market by mid 2012.

Looks

The fourth generation Honda CR-V gets a bold radiator grille featuring three horizontal chrome slats with a sculpted large Honda logo at the centre. The upswept head lamps with day-time running (DRL) LEDs give a sporty look to the new CR-V. The rear styling and tail lamps of the new CR-V resemble that of the Volvo XC60. Overall, the new CR-V is a more contemporary design when compared to the outgoing model.

Inside the cabin, Honda has improved the passenger space in the new CR-V. Earlier, there were rumors that the new CR-V will feature three rows of seats. But this is untrue for the new CR-V has only two rows of seats with a seating capacity of five passengers. The 60:40 split in the rear seat offers flexibility to carry more luggages. The loading lip has also been lowered so that luggage can easily be loaded into the boot.

Performance

The India-bound CR-V will likely get the same 2.4-litre i-VTEC motor that powers the outgoing model. However, expect power and torque to increase by a slight margin. At present, the engine puts out 180 bhp of power. Honda has also improved the fuel efficiency by 8 – 10 %. The CR-V will likely come with an Eco driving mode as found in Honda’s other models such as the Brio. Interestingly, Honda may launch a diesel version of the CR-V in India.  Honda has a 2.2 litre i-DTEC diesel motor that powers the Europe-specific Honda Accord. If this engine comes in the India-bound CR-V, it would be an enticing SUV for buyers.

Expected Features

The upcoming CR-V may have features such as intelligent Multi Information Display (i-MID) that displays fuel consumption and can also read text messages from your mobile phone, multi-angle rear view camera with three different camera view angles, steering-mounted controls, Bluetooth, audio system with USB and auxiliary input and 60:40 split seats at the rear. With regard to safety, expect the new CR-V to come with Vehicle Stability Assist with Motion-Adaptive EPS (Electric Power Steering), ABS, six airbags (front, front side, curtain), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and automatic tensioning front seat belts.

Expected Price

Honda sells the CR-V in India via CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. Hence it attracts a full 110% excise duty. The next-generation CR-V will likely follow the same CBU route. Expect the new CR-V to be priced slightly higher than the current model which is priced in the range of Rs. 22.6 lakh – 24.8 lakh.

Summary

Many years ago, the Honda CR-V had no competition in Indian market and had fairly high sales. However, with the launch of many diesel SUVs, the utility of CR-V did not appeal to buyers. The segment leader, Toyota Fortuner sells at around 850 units a month while Honda CR-V sells at 30 units a month. Honda should introduce the CR-V with diesel engine option if it is keen on increasing its sales in India. Expect the new CR-V petrol version to hit showrooms in mid 2012 while the diesel version may be launched in early 2013. Read more about the Honda CR-V.