New Honda CR-V revealed

These are the first official images of Honda’s all-new CR-V.

Honda had released the first official picture of the CR-V concept last summer, and was due to unveil the production car at next month's Los Angeles motor show. However, the latest images appeared without explanation on the Honda’s Japanese website at the weekend.

The CR-V is based on an all-new platform. The most prominent changes are at the front, where the CR-V features a wraparound lower front bumper that is better integrated into the rest of the front fascia than on the current car.

The three-bar horizontal front grille is also much more dominant than the current CR-V’s, with slimmed-down headlights flanking it on either side. Honda claims the front-end styling changes result in much improved aerodynamics over the current car. Sculpted bodywork features on the sides, which also get more pronounced side sills. The large alloy wheels featured on the concept have been exchanged for more practical-looking variants.

At the rear, the CR-V will retain the vertical light design of the current car. Honda is also claiming an all-new, more spacious interior with a lower floor for improved load-carrying ability. Engine details are still scarce, although improved efficiency and fuel economy are promised.

The current CR-V is available with a 2.0 or a 2.4-litre petrol engine with either two or all-wheel-drive options. Expect the new CR-V to hit our shores during second half of 2012.