After the international launch of the new Honda Civic, reactions have been more on the negative side than the positive one. The new Civic has not impressed critics in many of the markets its been put in. This puts even more pressure on the next big launch from Honda – Honda CR-V.
Honda promised us that the next generation CR-V is just around the corner. It seems they are correct because here we have some fresh spyshots of the 2012 CR-V with less camouflage. These test mules are doing their hot-weather testing in California’s Death Valley.
From the spyshots one can easily make out that Honda has ditched the sharp, boxy design and adopted a more fluidic approach for better aerodynamics. The SUV has become considerable bigger than the outgoing model indicating that there may be a third row of seats tucked away in the back. This will ensure that the Honda CR-V will be competitive against other 7 seater SUVs.
Codenamed 2WS, a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated, 4 cylinder engine producing anywhere between 180 and 200hp will find its way under the bonnet. It will be available in both four-wheel drive and front-wheel drive depending on the markets. Rumors are that the new CRV will debut at the Los Angeles motor show this November.
Back home in India, the Honda CR-V is struggling to sell even in double digits. So you can expect the 2012 CR-V to find its way to India to boost the sales figures. Don't you get the feeling that a local assembly is the need of the hour?
[Source - MotorAuthority.com]
