2028 Honda CR-V to Go Hybrid-Only; Will It Return to India?

The move will see Honda discontinue the conventional petrol engine option for the CR-V in the North American market. The decision comes as demand for hybrid SUVs continues to grow in the region, with hybrid variants already accounting for a significant share of CR-V sales.

The next-generation CR-V will introduce the fifth generation of Honda's two-motor hybrid system. The updated setup is designed to improve engine operating efficiency and electric motor performance.

Honda is targeting a fuel-efficiency improvement of more than 10 per cent over the current hybrid system. The company has not disclosed the engine specifications, combined power output or fuel economy figures yet.

For reference, the current CR-V Hybrid uses a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 204 HP.

The new SUV will also get an updated electric all-wheel-drive system. Honda says the setup will offer more precise motor control, improving the vehicle's response and traction.

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The 2028 CR-V will be the first Honda model to use an all-new vehicle platform. It will feature a lightweight structure, improved body rigidity and a modular architecture to enable greater component sharing across future models.

According to Honda, the new platform is designed to improve driving dynamics while helping streamline manufacturing and reduce development costs.

Honda To Expand Hybrid Lineup In North America

The next-generation CR-V is part of Honda's plan to introduce several new hybrid models in North America by 2030. The company is also retooling its Ohio manufacturing facilities to produce the new hybrid system and a four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle petrol engine. The upcoming CR-V will continue to be manufactured at three locations: East Liberty and Greensburg in the US, and Alliston in Canada.

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Honda has not confirmed the India launch of the next-generation CR-V. The SUV was previously sold in India but was discontinued from the company's local portfolio. While the new-generation model's hybrid powertrain could make it relevant for the Indian market, there is currently no official confirmation about its return till now.