The well-known nameplate has been a household name in the segment of compact SUVs for decades and still is one of the best models in the class you can find. However, the current generation has been around since 2016 and it won’t get any younger. The CR-V needs updates to remain a class leader and that’s why the Japanese company is preparing a completely new model for the next year. The next generation is expected to come as the 2023 Honda CR-V. The testing model has already been spotted and it looks like we are about to see a lot of interesting novelties.
From what we know so far, Honda designers won’t insist on radical changes, which makes perfect sense. The current model still makes impressive sales results and therefore, it’s logical to stay on the same path. So, we count on the same design approach, though the visual aspect of the car is about to bring a lot of interesting novelties. On the other hand, the mechanical aspect of the vehicle probably won’t change too much, and that refers to the powertrain as well.
We expect to see the 2023 Honda CR-V sometime in the next year.
2023 Honda CR-V Redesign
As we’ve just mentioned, most of the changes will be evolutionary. The platform will be updated and that would be the same one that underpins the new-generation Civic, which debuted this year. Compared to the outgoing generation, the new model is expected to bring some weight savings, as well as a lower center of gravity. The latter will ensure better handling in corners and should provide a better overall driving experience.
Speaking of the driving experience, we also count on some revisions on the suspension setup. Still, changes shouldn’t be significant and the 2023 Honda CR-V will probably deliver a similar level of comfort.
Exterior Design
The testing model has been spotted and even though it wears camouflage, we can see some of the changes that are about to occur. The new model is expected to be slightly bigger and from what we can see, it will feature a little bit longer wheelbase, which will accentuate its sportiness. Also, the wheelbase seems a little bit longer, which should have a positive impact on the interior space.
When it comes to styling, Honda will adapt the new model to the brand’s latest design language. In other words, it will borrow some styling cues from the new HR-V, as well as from some other fresh models in the lineup. The total appearance should be relatively conservative and we are pretty sure that Japanese designers won’t risk with too many funky details. Simply, this model is extremely important for the company and Honda can’t afford mistakes with this one.
Interior
Naturally, we will see a completely new cabin design as well. If you look at the current model, the overall build quality is pretty impressive. However, the dashboard is missing some attractive design solutions and fancier materials, which makes the CR-V look as not as shiny as rivals like Mazda CX-5 or VW Tiguan. We may expect Honda to improve this aspect, while the quality will certainly remain at the same level, or may even become better.
Traditionally, interior space will remain the CR-V’s strongest point. The new generation is expected to carry on in the same way and even improve in this aspect. Moreover, some sources even suggest that the 2023 Honda CR-V will come in a variant with three rows of seats, without stretching a wheelbase. At this point, it’s still unclear whether such a version is going to be offered in North America, or it will be reserved for specific markets only.
2023 Honda CR-V Engines
When it comes to the powertrain, we don’t expect surprises. The standard model is expected to carry on with a familiar 1.5-liter turbo-four, which comes in pair with a CVT gearbox. The engine puts out 190 horsepower, while the CVT works pretty well, which results in a strong performance. Even the fuel economy is pretty impressive, so there is no reason to change this powertrain.
A hybrid version is expected too and we presume the new 2023 Honda CR-V will use the same or similar system as the current model, which combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with two electric motors, for a total output of 212 horsepower. Of course, improvements in power and fuel economy are always expected.
Finally, there is a big chance to see an all-electric version of the next-generation CR-V, though this version probably won’t be ready for the initial launch.
2023 Honda CR-V Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 Honda CR-V sometime in the next summer, with a starting price of around 27.000 dollars. The competition remains the same – Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester etc.