Concept Previews 2012 Honda CR-V

Honda has released an official picture of the Honda CR-V Concept, which previews the fourth generation of the compact SUV, due in 2012.

Instantly recognisable as a CR-V, it updates the current car’s styling with a more aggressive, sporting edge.  The front is an evolution of the current model, but with a one piece grille and the lights swept further back.  The lines down the side are more confident and the wheel arches more pronounced, making the car look shorter and more squat.  The side windows resemble today’s car, but kick upwards to meet the downward sweep, a more adventurous design.  At the rear, the lights are in the pillars as before, but feel more Volvo like than previously.  Don’t expect the dark glass, huge wheels and butch trim all to make production though.

Altogether, it’s a more assertive car, but then the competition continues to evolve and the new CR-V will have to take on stylish new compact SUVs like the Range Rover Evoque and, to a lesser extent, the MINI Countryman.

Under the skin don’t expect many changes, with the current model’s four cylinder 2.0 litre petrol and 2.2 litre diesel carrying over.  Both will receive tweaks to up power but increase economy and improve emissions, however.  The six speed manual will be joined by a six speed automatic.  Both front and four wheel drive versions will be offered.

Expect a debut at the Frankfurt motor show in September with an on sale date in the UK of Autumn 2012.  We expect it to be priced from about £23,000.

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