New Honda CR-V's Thailand (India's sourcing hub) launch expected in Q1 2017

Honda India sources the CR-V from the Thai plant.

The 2017 Honda CR-V that was introduced last month should have its motorshow debut at the 2016 LA Auto Show this month before going on sale in the U.S. market in the coming weeks. Bangkok Post is expecting the 2017 Honda CR-V's Thai launch in Q1 2017. The report does not elaborate on the launch route, or if the car would enter local production simultaneously.

Thailand manufactures the current CR-V and exports it as CBU and CKD. HCIL sources CKD kits from the Thai plant since 2014 and assembles at the Greater Noida plant. HCIL reportedly has serious localization plans for the incoming CR-V, and would lower reliance on Thai parts. The Rojana Industrial Park could be ready for exports by late 2017, if production begins early next year.

With the redesign and upgrades for MY2017, the Honda CR-V has moved to its fifth generation. The all-new CR-V features an evolutionary design on the outside and a significantly upgraded interior with more space and comfort and convenience.

LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, heated door mirrors, L-shaped tail lamps, dual exhausts, one-touch power moonroof, ambient LED lighting, heated front seats, 12-way power adjustment with 4-way power lumbar support for the driver's seat, heated head restraints, 7-inch Display Audio infotainment system, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System and 180-watt, 8-speaker audio system are some of the key features of the 2017 Honda CR-V in the USA.

Also Read: India-bound Honda WR-V teased again before next week’s world premiere

The 2017 Honda CR-V will be offered with a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 184 hp and 180 lb.-ft. (244.05 Nm) of torque and a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine good for 190 hp and 179 lb.-ft. (242.69 Nm) of torque, both in conjunction with a continuously variable transmission. An all-wheel drive system will be available. These details are of the U.S.-spec version, and it is yet to be known what the ASEAN-spec version will launch with.

[Source: Bangkok Post]