Honda CR-V 2012 revealed

Honda has released a preview image of the compact SUV, which will be unveiled in the US in September and likely go on sale in overseas markets next year.

There’s no firm date yet for its Australian launch, when it will replace the model that arrived here in 2007.

“We don’t have any firm information on the production version or the schedule at the moment,” Honda spokesperson Melissa Cross says.

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The front three-quarter image shows that the split grille on the current model has been dropped, replaced by a handsome triple-bar horizontal design that lends a cleaner touch to the nose.

While some features in the photo – notably the good-looking but impractical gloss-finish side mouldings, dark glass and the dressed-up alloys – will probably not make it onto the showroom floor, the image is probably close to what will go no sale.

Honda says the design changes to the nose will improve the CR-V’s aerodynamics and it will probably contribute to the promises quietness and also of improved economy from "a more fuel-efficient" engine and lighter weight.

There are also only hints about what’s on the inside, where Honda says we’ll find “a more accommodating and spacious design”. However the larger body suggests that – as reported with our spy coverage of the 2012 CR-V – there could well be enough room for a third row of seats.

This would open sales of the compact SUV up to larger families, in a segment where the majority of rivals seat only five.