2012 Honda CR-V

 

The 2012 Honda CR-V Concept, which previews the production model set for debut at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, was unveiled on Thursday.

The concept debuted at the 2011 Orange County International Auto Show here.

Honda is clearly taking an edgier design approach with the 2012 CR-V, saying its intent was to make it look more like an SUV. The concept gets beefy fender flares, a more aggressive-looking face and a lower front bumper. The CR-V Concept also gets large five-spoke machined alloy wheels and a more dramatic take on the CR-V's vertical taillights.

Honda said the concept introduces the "styling direction" for the CR-V.

The 2012 Honda CR-V will also get a new interior with an eye toward improving space, the automaker said.

Honda did not release powertrain or pricing details on the 2012 CR-V. But the automaker said in a statement that the CR-V "will feature a more fuel-efficient engine and reduced body weight."

The 2012 Honda CR-V will go on sale in the U.S. by the end of the year.

Honda sold 16,572 CR-Vs in the U.S. in August, reflecting an 18 percent drop versus August 2010, according to company sales numbers released earlier this month. However, Honda has sold 141,431 CR-Vs here year-to-date, reflecting an 11 percent increase over the same period in 2010.