2023 Honda CR-V leaked in patent filing

A patent image of what is believed to be the next-generation 2023 Honda CR-V mid-size SUV has surfaced online, ahead of its global unveiling expected in the coming months.

Republished online by various sources, the patent image reveals the new CR-V will follow the smaller Civic small car, 'global' HR-V small SUV and other recent Honda models in adopting more conservative styling, with fewer sharp creases and angles than the car it replaces.

In line with its focus on North America, the new CR-V's front fascia is reminiscent of the US and Canada-specific, second-generation 2023 HR-V small SUV – which differs from the new 2022 HR-V bound for global markets, including Japan and Australia – with a large grille opening, slim headlight clusters, and L-shaped signatures.

A sharp shoulder line runs along the side of the car, much like the new Civic and HR-V (for global markets). No images of the vehicle's rear end have surfaced, however spy shots suggest an upright tailgate and high-mounted, C-shaped tail-lights.

These spy photos also provide our first look inside the new CR-V, where a large tablet-style touchscreen sits atop the dashboard, akin to Honda's newest models.

Honda announced a partnership with Google last September for next-generation infotainment systems powered by the tech giant's Android Automotive software – the first vehicle equipped with which is due in the US in the second half of 2022, aligning with the CR-V's likely launch timing.

Few other details of the next Honda CR-V are known, however if past models are any guide, it's likely to ride on the same front-wheel-drive platform as the new Civic hatchback, and a rumoured third SUV to slot between the HR-V and CR-V, according to overseas reports.

With a new small-to-mid-size SUV slotting below it, the new CR-V may be larger than the vehicle it replaces – a suggestion seemingly corroborated by the spy photos and patent image, though Honda is yet to confirm dimensions.

Honda Australia has indicated all new-generation models the company launches will offer a hybrid option – a category the CR-V will fall into, possibly with an upgraded version of the 2.0-litre hybrid system available in the current model overseas.

The current CR-V's 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine should be retained in some form, though it remains to be seen if it will gain an increase in outputs over the outgoing model's 140kW/240Nm.

Launch timing for the 2023 Honda CR-V is yet to be confirmed, however online speculation suggests a full reveal in the coming months, ahead of an overseas launch towards the end of this year.

Stay tuned to Drive for all the latest Honda CR-V news.