The 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid might come with a new internal-combustion engine with an industry-leading thermal efficiency of 42%.
The Japanese company has decided to release a peek of a very familiar face in new clothes before its summer debut. Namely, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid for North America showed its front and rear end in a series of photos, showing a generally sharper design.
The company calls it a ‘ragged and sophisticated design with increased versatility. The 2023 CR-V runs a darker tone and has a new L-shaped tail light grooving a unique led signature and graphics. The taillight resembles a Volvo on the outside and a Mazda on the inside, while the headlights are a lot slicker and striped, just like Accord’s. All of this minor detailing has resulted in welcome improvements over previous CR-Vs.
The 2023 CR-V Hybrid might feature a new 2.0-liter engine that boasts more than 42% thermal efficiency, making it the most efficient production engine in the world. Paired with additional electric motors, the powertrain should provide solid pulling power while sipping fuel — we expect best-in-class mpg numbers.
Honda was expected to release its bestselling SUV, along with the Pilot and Passport, dubbing 2022 as the ‘year of the SUV.’ Although Honda hasn’t revealed much about the 2023 CR-V, from what we can make out, the expectations are for a ‘sportier and versatile’ comeback running on a hybrid powertrain.
The CR-V has always been a tidy little family car with good driving dynamics, interesting to look at, and reliable to own. It is debatable how well the newer version will sit with its target audiences.
When it hits the market, the 2023 CR-V will have a tough competition from the Toyota RAV4, which comes in regular, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid forms, but also the newly-released Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, both also offering a plethora of powertrain options.
Gallery: 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Teaser Photos
