US: Honda CR-V Hybrid unveiled

Honda has unveiled the CR-V Hybrid in the US. Along with a new powertrain, the SUV also gets minor tweaks to the exterior and the interior.

On the outside, the hybrid variants get bar-type fog lamps with five LEDs, hybrid badging, and a blue Honda logo at the front. While non-hybrid variants get a chrome exhaust, the hybrid variants get concealed exhaust pipes. On the inside, the hybrid CR-V gets push-button gear selector and switches for Econ, Sport and EV modes. The instrument cluster displays the power/charge status and a display for power distribution and regeneration. The steering wheel paddles can be used to choose the amount of regenerative braking from the hybrid system's electric motor. It also gets Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS), which generates a noise to alert pedestrians when travelling on electric power only.

Powering the CR-V Hybrid is a 2.0-litre petrol engine and two electric motors. The total combined power output is 209 BHP and fuel efficiency is expected to be increased by around 50%, compared to the non-hybrid variant. The hybrid battery pack and its control systems are placed under the cargo floor. Power is sent to all four wheels when required.

The Honda CR-V Hybrid will be built in the US and is expected to go on sale in early 2020.