Honda previews 2018 hybrid CR-V 05 | 09 | 2017

THIS IS OUR first look at the latest Honda CR-V which will go on-sale at Scottish dealerships next year. The new SUV — which goes head-to-head with the likes of the VW Tiguan and Nissan X-Trail — will be displayed as a hybrid prototype at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Honda has also ditched diesel from the CR-V’s range. (Related: 2018 Honda Civic to get new diesel)

Wider, taller and longer than the previous version, the new CR-V has fresh exterior styling, with a wider stance through the broader, muscular wheel arches.

Designers have ensured the Hybrid Prototype’ displays a number of unique styling changes drawing attention to its electrified powertrain.

The hybrid is powered by Honda’s all-new Intelligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD) two-motor hybrid setup. This comprises an electric motor, a 2.0-litre petrol engine, plus a separate electric motor generator.

In an effort to reduce weight and size, the new system replaces a conventional gearbox with a single-fixed gear ratio. Depending on conditions and how the car is being driven, the system automatically shuffles between its three driving modes.

Honda has tuned the new hybrid CR-V’s EV mode and a hybrid drive settings for low speed and urban driving. It’s also unlikely the car’s range on electric power only won’t compete with that of many plug-in systems already on sale.

The petrol engine? Well it kicks in when you’re either hustling cross-country or cruising the motorway. It also  delivers power to the electric motor and recharges the battery pack.

As mentioned earlier, Honda has confirmed the new CR-V won’t be available with diesel power in Europe. In addition to the hybrid, there will be a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo petrol mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT transmission. Honda has yet to release performance, emission and economy figures.

Related: 2018 Honda Jazz gets sporty facelift

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Jim McGill