Honda’s next-generation CR-V could arrive later than previously expected, with production reportedly delayed by three months to April 2027 and first-year output reduced by nearly 7%. The changes come as the automaker shifts toward hybrids in North America, while also reconsidering plans to build the next-generation Civic at its Indiana plant.
Honda CR-V Production Reportedly Delayed Until April 2027
Just last month, reports indicated that Honda was accelerating development of the next-generation CR-V, with the hybrid SUV expected to begin rolling off the production line as early as February 2027. The latest reports, however, point to a revised timeline.
Honda is now reportedly planning to delay the start of production by three months, moving the target to April 2027. The automaker is also said to be reducing planned first-year production by nearly 7%, from its original target to 41,315 units.
These reported adjustments are part of Honda’s broader shift toward hybrid vehicles in North America. The CR-V is expected to play a central role in the company’s electrified lineup as it responds to growing demand for hybrid models.
Production Changes Amid Honda’s Hybrid Strategy
The CR-V remains Honda’s top-selling vehicle in the United States. The company sold 336,844 units during the first nine months of 2026, representing a 9.5% increase compared with the same period last year.
The reported production delay could give Honda additional time to maintain supplies of the current CR-V while making adjustments to its manufacturing operations in Ohio, Indiana and Ontario.
Honda has not officially confirmed the reported changes. In a statement to Automotive News, a company spokesperson said, “Honda has not announced any information on future CR-V model changes, so we cannot comment on speculation.”
As a result, the revised production schedule and related powertrain plans remain reported developments rather than confirmed announcements from Honda.
Honda Reportedly Drops Next-Generation Civic Plans in Indiana
The CR-V is not the only Honda model affected by reported production changes. The company has reportedly canceled plans to begin building the next-generation Civic at its Indiana plant in May 2028.
Production of the Civic sedan in Ontario is reportedly unaffected and is expected to begin in April 2028. However, Indiana is currently the only North American source of Civic Hatchbacks, meaning Honda will import that version from Japan instead.
Indiana Plant Could Shift Capacity to the CR-V
Honda is projected to produce approximately 70,000 Civics in Indiana this year. Removing future Civic production from the facility would free up manufacturing capacity for the CR-V, according to the report.
Sam Fiorani, vice president of AutoForecast Solutions, told Automotive News that the CR-V is a higher-volume and more profitable vehicle, providing a potential reason for Honda’s reported production shift.
For now, the reported changes suggest a revised manufacturing strategy for Honda’s next-generation CR-V and Civic, although the company has not officially confirmed the plans.
