Radical new look for next CR-V

This is Honda's new CR-V, spotted out testing - without any of the usual camouflage - in downtown Vancouver, Canada, by a surprised…

This is Honda's new CR-V, spotted out testing - without any of the usual camouflage - in downtown Vancouver, Canada, by a surprised car fan, Benjamin Hong. Michael McAleer, Motoring editor, reports.

It was part of a convoy of three new CR-Vs caught testing. Hong grabbed his phone-camera and managed to snap a few pictures before the Hondas disappeared.

A complete change from the current model, it is based on a new platform - which it shares with the US version of the Civic. This brings with it an increase in both wheelbase and width over the outgoing CR-V.

Flexibility and interior material quality will make similar leaps, too, thanks to a sliding rear bench and more soft-feel plastics.

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The new CR-V will continue with the current car's 2-litre petrol units - although these are likely to be tweaked to offer more power and better fuel economy than at present.

The existing 140bhp 2.2-litre i-CTDi turbo-diesel will also be offered.

A hybrid version may be available for the 2008 model year.

The official public unveiling will be at the Paris Motor Show in September with the model going on sale here early in 2007.