There is a new Honda in the making, as revealed in the several spy shots of the vehicle undergoing test runs that has emerged online. Also, while the test mules continue to be heavily camouflaged, long time Honda and specifically CR-V fans hope the new compact crossover flaunts better styling cues than its predecessors.

As CarAndDriver reported, the new CR-V could be based on the same platform that underpins the new Civic. That apart, the crossover might go for an increase in length to accommodate a third row of seats as well. Also, while the CR-V's unique vertically oriented taillights continue to be there, the headlights seem to be heavily influenced from that of Acura vehicles.

While the vehicle is undoubtedly interesting, a number of fans of the Honda crossover have voiced out their disappointment, stating that the design updates to the compact SUV seem to be too subtle this time around. Thus, the flaws of the 2018 CR-V might be the very same flaws of its predecessors. 

With this said, modern powertrain options too are expected with the new CR-V model, with the possibility of a hybrid option to stem the slide in sales when compared to its competitors. Special mention can be made of the Toyota Rav4, which has seen its sales zoom 10 percent with the introduction of a hybrid engine option, MCrunch reported.

That said, it is the new 174-hp 1.5-liter turbo four engine of the Civic that might eventually power the upcoming CR-V, with a continuously variable automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels in the standard configuration. There should also be an AWD version as well for those who opt for it.

It is imperative Honda plays its cards really well to ensure the new CR-V matches up to a competition that has become all the more intense. Not only is the Toyota Rav4 selling well, other like the Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, and the Subaru Forester have proved to be viable enough in the compact crossover segment.

The expected launch of the new CR-V is around 2017. As for the price, it is unlikely Honda will be tinkering much on that. The FWD LX variant now sells for $24,645 while the top-of-the-line AWD version sports a sticker price of $34,295.

See Now: OnePlus 6: How Different Will It Be From OnePlus 5?