Honda CR-V European prototype previews new SUV

The Honda CR-V European prototype has been revealed ahead of next week’s Geneva motor show.
The near-production-ready concept is a marginally softened and more refined take on the US-spec CR-V that was unveiled at last November’s Los Angeles auto show.

The prototype previews the design of the all-new fourth-generation soft-roader, which is set to go on sale throughout Europe in the second half of 2012.
The European prototype gives Australians a good insight into the styling of the new model, with our car likely to share more in common with the European version than the US one when it arrives in showrooms, also in the second half of the year.

The European Honda CR-V is set to benefit from revised headlights with clear indicators and LED daytime running lights, along with a mildly tweaked grille, and remodelled lower front bumper and fog light surrounds.
Unlike the US-spec soft-roader, the European CR-V will come with a choice of petrol and diesel powertrains, and the diesel option is certain to be considered for our market.

Engine details of the European CR-V are yet to be revealed. The US CR-V is powered by an upgraded version of the outgoing model’s 2.4-litre petrol engine, producing 138kW and 221Nm. The five-speed automatic all-wheel-drive model uses 9.4 litres of fuel per 100km according to US measurements (the old model uses 10.0L/100km under Australian standards).
New features in the CR-V include a full-colour multi-information display, rear-view camera with guidelines, integrated Bluetooth phone connectivity and SMS text-to-voice functionality.
More details on the Honda CR-V prototype will be revealed at Geneva on March 6, while full Australian specifications and prices will be released closer to the car’s local launch.