Honda launches new CR-V 21 | 11 | 2011

A FULL EIGHT OR NINE months before it goes on sale in the Scotland, Honda has officially lifted the wraps from the fourth-generation CR-V.

Shown at the LA Motor Show, the new CR-V will enter showrooms in the States on December 15, but won't enter Scottish dealerships until next autumn: which is rather frustrating, given it's built in Swindon!

The newcomer is a close resemblance to the CR-V SUV concept released in the summer.

The latest CR-V sits on an all-new platform and the most prominent styling tweaks are noticeable at the front where the new model features a wraparound lower front bumper.

More dominant also is the three-bar horizontal front grille, plus there are new slimmed-down headlights which flank it on either side. Not surprisingly, Honda claims the front-end styling changes result in much improved aerodynamics over the current car.

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The sides of the CR-V have also been the subject of the designer's pen, with new sculpted bodywork and more pronounced side sills.

Some, no doubt, will be disappointed that the large alloy wheels which featured on the concept have been exchanged for more practical-looking rims.

The rear of the new CR-V retains the vertical light design of the current car, but Honda says the new model has an all-new, more spacious interior. There's also a lower floor for improved load-carrying ability.

Honda is remaining tightlipped about the engines to be used in Europe — the current model is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol or 2.2-litre diesel engine, both of which produce 148bhp — though it's expected the new powerplants will boast improved efficiency and fuel economy.

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Jim McGill