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2028 Honda CR-V Is Coming. But Don’t Expect a Revolution

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It might sound surprising, but the original Honda CR-V is now over 30 years old. First introduced in Japan back in October 1995, the CR-V helped define the modern compact SUV segment. Fast forward to today, and the current sixth-generation model, launched in September 2022, is roughly 10 inches longer than that original version, offering more space, improved refinement, and updated technology. It’s also not as cute and has about 10% of the personality of the original model.

The current Honda CR-V is still going strong. For the 2026 model year, Honda introduced minor updates along with a new TrailSport trim, giving the popular SUV a slightly more rugged look. These updates help keep the model almost fresh, but they also hint that an all-new generation could arrive within the next two years.

However, don’t expect anything too radical.

Like many “new” gas-powered SUVs today, the next-generation CR-V will likely be heavily based on the current model. However, it will probably be closely related to the new 2027 Civic. And will use the same new Hybrid powertrain. This will include a new 2.0 Liter engine and a lighter setup. With a new direct-drive motor and generator. Just like the 2027 Civic, MPG will probably be improved as well.

The CR-V just had its best year ever.

With over 403,000 units sold last year, it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S. That kind of success doesn’t encourage dramatic changes. In fact, it usually does the opposite. Most buyers prefer familiarity. They want something that feels like what they already trust, not a complete reinvention.

The illustration above shows a timid approach to a new design. Which is probably what Honda will be doing with the next generation. Unless they went for something truly new. A design inspired by the defunct 0 Series SUV. You know, the one we’ll unfrotubatelly never see..

It looks like the good old CR-V will remain a key part of Honda’s lineup for years to come. In fact, the next generation could make hybrid technology standard across the range, reflecting the growing shift toward electrification without requiring a full transition to EVs. A plug-in hybrid variant is also a possibility, though Honda may be cautious about adding a more expensive option unless demand clearly supports it.

Ultimately, Honda’s strategy seems clear: slightly evolve, not reinvent.

With such strong sales and a loyal customer base, there’s little incentive to take big risks with the CR-V. Instead, expect gradual improvements, smarter electrification, and a design that feels new—but not unfamiliar.

And while EVs will play a bigger role in Honda’s future, the CR-V isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Conversation 8 comments

  1. What Honda needs in the current CRV is an update of materials inside to provide more contrast.
    *The gray interior only has that color on the seat face making it look cheap. They didn’t do this with the Accord or Civic. Some people just want a lighter color interior – not all black except where their backside hits. And, they should offer a parchment color interior.
    *Update some feature content to keep the more expensive CRV close enough to competitors that DO offer things like more adjustable seats with ventillation, surround view cameras, or rear seat ventillation in lower trims. *Change up their exterior blue color. Its looking old. Maybe offer the Molten Lava Metallic again.
    *Make the front end a little rounder, expecially at the lower bumper. The scoop isn’t aging well.

    Honda needs to do something for this existing CRV because their products are aging quickly and they’re in a lot of financial difficulty that will likely extend the model cycle while they regroup.

  4. The lack of Ventilated seats is a HUUUUGE reason why I had to rule out the CRV. Everyone of its competitors offers them….

  5. Not sure if anyone saw that Mercedes just put out an EV that has a second gear attached to improve efficiency. Seems like something Honda should be working on with their hybrids so when the engine is coupled to the driveshafts, it can run at lower RPMS at highway speeds. Not just a single gearing like they have now.

  7. All Japanese makes suffer from the same fate. Ugly cheap interiors built on thin metal frames that’s are outdated. It’s called selling a car at maximum price while providing the very basic. Black interiors wrapped in plastic, pop up screen that does nothing, and a CVT…. All wreak of cheap interiors built Hondas.

  8. Many good comments here, and particularly the ones regarding interiors. Honda needs to get over its very limited range of interior color options. The plethora of dark black or cold gray interiors is depressing and sad. And the very limited interior color options for each exterior color are infuriating. Personally, I would love a tan interior option with a deep sapphire blue exterior. See other comments regarding interiors below.

    I TRULY appreciate Honda’s restrained exterior designs and not making radical changes, but rather more evolutionary. The majority of SUV designs these days, with their huge gaping grilles and aggressive/off-road appearance, are ridiculous and very off-putting. I would never buy any of them.

    I purchased a 2023 Honda CR-V Sport Touring vehicle. While I love the vehicle, I was quite dismayed to find that many features one would expect on the Touring edition are totally missing:

    • no fog lights – this is important for many US climates.
    • no storage pocket on the back of the driver’s seat – honestly, how cheap can you get!
    • no garage door opener homelink – this should be STANDARD, at least on the Touring edition
    • no puddle lights – honestly? These aren’t that expensive – they provided lighting for the footwells.
    • no HUD – my 2018 Accord Touring has this. Why not the CR-V Touring?
    • no air-cooled front seats – again, a sad cost-cutting effort! The Accord and the competition have them.
    • no heated rear seats – again, a sad cost-cutting effort for a top-of-the-line “Touring” edition.

    I understand that not every buyer wants or needs these items. However, if you are offering a “Touring” edition, it NEEDS to provide the options the competition does and that buyers expect for a “top-of-the-line” edition.

    A plug-in hybrid would interest me if it weren’t outrageously expensive.

    I look forward to the next generation of CR-V and hope the bean counters don’t create another version of mediocrity. Honda, I hope you are reading this!

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