2012 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V will be redesigned for 2012.

The Honda CR-V Concept hints at a tougher, more angular look for the model's next generation, which goes on sale in the fourth quarter. Although the final product probably won't stray far from the current design, Honda promises a lighter CR-V that's more fuel-efficient and uses a lower cargo floor to highlight an all-new interior.

But the 2012 Honda CR-V crossover SUV could certainly use more power to stay competitive. We'd expect to see at least 200 horsepower -- up from the current 180 hp -- from the same 2.4-liter engine used in the Acura TSX and new Civic Si. A small bump up to 170 pound-feet of torque (currently 161 lb-ft) would also give the small SUV some welcome low-end pull, especially for models equipped with all-wheel drive.

We also expect the new CR-V to get 30 mpg on the highway to pull within range of SUV competitors like the Chevrolet Equinox and a forthcoming, also-redesigned Toyota RAV4. We'd also expect to see xenon headlights, like those used on Japanese and European-market CR-Vs, offered on at least the top-line EX-L models.

The 2012 Honda CR-V will be available by the end of the year. Check back later for complete buying advice and driving impressions.

(Source : http://www.edmunds.com/honda/cr-v/2012/)