Honda Breeze shows a different take on the next CR-V 

If you’re familiar with the Chinese automotive market, then you’re aware that there are many models that are quite unique as they just can’t be found in an official capacity in other markets. One case in point is the Honda Breeze, the said market’s equivalent of the Honda CR-V. More interestingly though, leaks for the next-generation Breeze have surfaced. 

The upcoming Honda Breeze for the Chinese market [Photo: headlightmag.com]

As per the leaks, the upcoming Breeze looks like a completely different take on the CR-V formula. Sure, the CR-V as we know it is also sold in China under Dongfeng Honda Automobile, but this one from the GAC-Honda joint-venture looks quite different despite using the same platform. 

For one thing, the 2023 Honda CR-V that debuted in the US is a bit more aggressive, with sharp character lines. Meanwhile, the new Breeze looks more graceful. For one thing, it looks like an upscaled version of other Honda models.

On the front, it gets a chrome-clad bar on its front bumper much like the Honda Accord and City. It also gets a pair of slim-looking LED headlamps with a multi-faceted design element. The front bumper also houses a pair of fog lamps, and a sizable intake is present just below the grille.  

The Chinese-spec Breeze from the rear

The rear is also a bit less detailed than the new CR-V for the US market, and even compared to the existing Philippine-spec Honda CR-V it looks quieter. For one thing, it gets a pair of taillights that are smaller than the ones on the latter. 

It also gets a pair of square-shaped exhaust ports, behind which are where the real tailpipes are hidden. Moreover, the rear license plate position has been lowered. 

As for its body cladding, sources say that like the US-spec CR-V and the current local CR-V, the new Breeze is also getting some cladding on the wheel arches and other parts of the exterior. These, though, are body-colored and not just black plastic.

Other exterior bits of the Breeze

As for its mechanical bits, Headlightmag.com has reported that this refreshed Breeze might be getting a 2.0-liter hybrid, or a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine option. Of note, the 1.5-liter option can make up to 190 horsepower and is paired to a CVT. It will then get a front-wheel-drive, or all-wheel-drive variant. Interestingly, this version of the CR-V is only available as a five-seater.  

But for now, there’s no word regarding the hybrid option’s output figures. We also haven’t found any pictures of its interior. 

For its launch date, it is expected to happen within the year. Also, one shouldn’t expect this interesting Honda model to reach the Philippines anytime soon. Sure it looks pretty slick, but remember that it is a China-only model. 

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