Possible next generation Honda C-RV.
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This might be hard to believe, but the original Honda C-RV came out 30 years ago. It was introduced in Japan in October 1995. The current 6th generation is about 10 inches longer than the original and started production in September 2022.
It is still going strong 3 years later. It also received a few small modifications for the 2026 model year, on top of a new Trailsport trim. This also means we could see a brand new one in 2 or 3 years.
Like most “new” gas cars and SUVs these days, the next generation will probably be heavily based on the current model. With a new design. Which will probably be fine since Honda still sold over 402,000 of them last year. Which is actually the C-RV’s best year ever. Honda is probably not in a hurry to change things too much. Most buyers like what they know and don’t want something too original or too different from what they’ve bought before.
The illustration above shows something a little more modern than the current model. However, that could even be too much for most current buyers.
The new 0 Series SUV will probably steal a few sales from the current C-RV when it comes out next year. People who want an EV will now have a ‘real” Honda to choose from, and not a GM-based SUV. However, that didn’t stop people from buying the Prologue this year. With over 37,000 units so far this year. Many of these people interested in a Honda EV SUV will probably turn to the new 0-Series when it comes out. A model that could be cheaper than the Prologue and probably even more popular.
For those enjoying a gas engine, the C-HR will still be there for at least another generation. Probably until Honda is ready to rename their EV as a “C-RV”. Which will probably not happen before a 2nd generation of the 0 Series.
In 2 or 3 years, the next C-RV should really have the hybrid powertrain standard. With some kind of PHEV as an option. However, with over 400,000 sold last year, Honda might not even be interested in offering an expensive option or even spending more R&D money on the next C-RV.
In my opinion the one above looks older. We have the Sport 2023. The Sport, Sport L, and Sport Touring look much more modern than the lower trims.
Here are the questions I’m pondering in the next CR-V – There are currently two main AWD systems in Honda’s portfolio: RT-AWD with a viscous coupling (used in the CRV), and iVTM4 (Pilot/Passport) that is based upon the Acura SH-AWD system. Both are mechanical driveshaft systems. Honda has shown interest in going more “off-roady” and could push the iVTM4 system. Its not only more expensive, but gets low fuel economy and I don’t think they’ll go in that direction for the CR-V. They have in the recent past suggested they were developing an electric motor rear diff system for AWD like you find in the Toyota RAV4. Its not as good on snow and ice, but its better on gas and since the CR-V is a world product it’s more likely to push toward e-AWD.
So the last question is whether there will be some degree of consolidation of the platform between the 0-series SUVs (Acura RSX and the Honda SUV) and the CR-V. It would make sense in terms of assembly and component sharing – just adding more or less battery into the subfloor depending upon the product (hybrid, PHEV or EV) and this would let the CR-V have a flat load floor when seats are folded again.
btw – people bought the Prologue because its just a good looking Honda SUV. It would be nice if that style made its way to the next CRV – or maybe instead of the Kia Soul-like new 0-Series SUV that just showed.
The greenhouse is on like 3 other SUVs the Campass and Cherokee with just a more slanted C pillar. When are SUVs going to make greenhouses unique again?