Despite the recent facelift, it looks like the next year could also bring some interesting novelties. According to the latest reports, there is a big chance to see a three-row version of this crossover offered in North America. So far, this version has been available in certain parts of the world and it looks like Honda is about to expand its offer and try to make sales numbers even more impressive. It looks like the 2021 Honda CR-V will become even more versatile, although we thought that’s impossible.

Adding the third row won’t affect the model’s overall design and characteristics. Moreover, it looks like we are about to see the same dimensions, at least when it comes to the exterior design. On the inside, this addition will mean slightly lower volume ratings, but don’t expect to see anything drastic. When it comes to the powertrain, we count on two familiar options.

2021 Honda CR-V Design

As we already mentioned, the overall design characteristics of the new version are expected to remain the same. This would mean the same size and overall shape, as well as the same mechanics. Of course, this would include all the updates that recently came with the 2020 facelift. There is a new front face, which comes with a couple of nice revisions compared to the previous versions, such as new LED headlights, new bumper, wheels etc.

Although there were some rumors about the 2021 Honda CR-V redesign, now it’s clear that this won’t happen, considering the recent facelift. This update practically means that the current generation will remain in production for a couple of more years, and we don’t expect to see any particular change before the overhaul. Still, don’t exclude the possibility to see those minor tweaks like new color options etc.

2021 Honda CR-V Powertrain

When it comes to the powertrain department, the next year won’t bring any particular change. A good old 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated engine has been dropped and a 1.5-liter turbo-four is the only pure gasoline engine option in the offer. This one delivers around 190 horsepower and provides pretty decent acceleration and driving dynamics. Also, it comes paired with a well-working CVT gearbox, which ensures not just a smooth ride, but an impressive fuel economy as well. With this engine, you may count on amazing 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.

The recent update has also brought a hybrid version to North America. This version features the same setup as the legendary Accord, which means a combination of two electric motors and a 2.0-liter gasoline engine, for a total output of 212 horsepower. At this point, the exact numbers in terms of fuel economy are still unavailable. Of course, the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid will continue without changes.

2021 Honda CR-V Will Get Third Row!?

According to some reports, there is a chance to see a three-row version of this compact crossover. So far, such a model has been available in certain parts of the world, but not in North America. This could change next year and the 2021 Honda CR-V 7-seat version could be offered in this part of the world as well. The interesting thing is that the new version wouldn’t feature and wheelbase stretching or similar things. We are about to see the same size, which definitely wouldn’t be an issue, considering that we are talking about one of the most comfortable models in the class. Of course, the additional row would compromise the cargo volume with all seats in use, but the overall cargo volume shouldn’t be affected too much.

Other than the third row, we don’t expect to see any particular change to the interior design. The current model already features one of the nicest cabins in the class. It is full of quality materials and that simplistic aesthetical approach makes it attractive for a wide range of customers.

Features

This is the aspect where we could see some 2021 Honda CR-V changes. Still, keep in mind that the recent facelift has brought a lot of novelties in this aspect as well, especially in terms of safety features. Therefore, most things should remain the same. This also means that entry-level models will remain pretty basic and won’t come with much more than a 5-inch infotainment display, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a four-speaker stereo. Of course, higher trims will be equipped much better and you may count on goodies like a 7-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, a navigation system, wireless device charging, satellite radio, HD Radio, upgraded audio system etc.

Release Date and Price

When it comes to the 2021 Honda CR-V release date, we expect to see it in a typical time of year, sometime in the last quarter. The price should also remain pretty much the same, which would mean around 26.000 dollars for base models. When it comes to the competition, you may add the three-row Tiguan to the list of rivals.