Beater Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5? 2023 Honda CR-V takes shape ahead of Australian launch with hybrid variant, new styling and fresh features

The next generation CR-V should look very similar to this artist's impression. (Image credit: Wheels)

Is this the next generation Honda CR-V?

Well, the impression of the artist, published wheel and what's seen here is based on an allegedly leaked CR-V patent image that went viral on the internet last week, leaving little to the imagination.

As such, expect these renders to be close to the real deal, meaning the CR-V is about to become a more modern and mature offering, just like the Civic hatchback and HR-V SUV did with their recent next-gen models.

Up front, the CR-V looks neater thanks to a simple design with a large grille with a mesh insert. The chrome bar above it also intersects with thin, angular headlights. And then there's the purposeful bumper.

There isn't much to write about on the side besides moving the side mirrors to the front doors, a bigger greenhouse and presumably new alloy wheel sets.

in the rear, wheel took some liberties with the artistic impression, as the patent image in question was a three-quarter front angle of the new Mazda CX-5 competitor. However, previous spy shots of the camouflaged prototype provided some evidence for this.

Either way, it looks like the CR-V will stay with its signature L-shaped taillights, albeit in a more refined version, while the license plate holder has moved from the bottom of the tailgate to the middle.

As reported, the new CR-V is expected to be introduced later in 2022 and then go on sale in Australia by the end of the year or early 2023. Either way, local buyers will have access to a hybrid powertrain for the first time. time, as promised by Honda.

In some markets, the current model is available with a "self-charging" system that combines a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 158kW/315Nm, but Australia continues to miss out on rival Toyota's RAV4 Hybrid.

At least one traditional engine option is also expected for the new CR-V, likely including an updated version of its existing 1.5-liter turbo-petrol four-cylinder unit that is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Keep for updates.