Get ready for an onslaught of new Honda models.
At a recent Honda Prologue media presentation in which we got our first look at the new EV’s design, Honda spoke about a few of its upcoming cars, giving an indication of what to expect for the remainder of 2022.
“We’re doubling down in 2022 with what we’re calling the year of the SUV where we are introducing an all-new HR-V, CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, and Pilot just this year,” Jessica Fini, senior manager of public relations at American Honda, said during the presentation, as reported by Motor1.
As for what to expect from these models, there’s plenty we already know. The Honda HR-V, for example, has been revealed inside and out, but while concrete details on its powertrain are as-yet-unconfirmed by Honda, a leak out of California has spilled the beans on its 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
The new CR-V mentioned by Fini has also already been leaked, at least in China where we’ve seen something bearing strong resemblance to the design of the new Prologue EV. However, whether this is the same model that will reach the US remains to be seen, as USDM Hondas regularly differ from their European and Asian counterparts. This was recently highlighted once more by the new Honda HR-V, which was revealed in China and Europe as the ZR-V, a tweener model slotting in beneath the CR-V and above the Euro-spec HR-V.
What will power the CR-V is shrouded in mystery, but at this stage, we’re betting on carryover 1.5-liter turbo motors and definitely a hybrid powertrain in the mix too.
Speaking of hybrid powertrains, VP of auto sales at Honda America, Mamadou Diallo confirmed more are on the way. “Our path to electrification really accelerates this fall with higher volume sales of our all-new CR-V Hybrid and next year with an all-new Accord Hybrid. And in the future, we will re-introduce the Civic Hybrid,” said Diallo.
China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
China Ministry of Industry and Information Technology
That eaves just the Pilot remaining, which is the only model we have absolutely no leads on yet. The third generation has been with us since 2016 and has shared underpinnings with the smaller Passport as well as the Honda Odyssey and even the Ridgeline pickup. Despite a 2019 facelift, it’s now in need of a complete overhaul if it’s to compete with newer rivals like the Hyundai Palisade.
As the Acura MDX previously shared underpinnings with the Pilot, the all-new 2022 MDX could serve as an indicator of what to expect from the Honda. If that means the existing 3.5-liter V6, 10-speed automatic transmission, and wonderful suspension of the Acura, we’re all in. Don’t hold out hope for a Honda version of the MDX Type S, however.
News of the Accord Hybrid is somewhat unexpected, as we’ve yet to hear even a whisper about a new one prior to now. With other manufacturers canceling sedans and focusing on SUVs, it’ll be refreshing if Honda sticks to its guns.