2021 Honda CR-V looks even better in the metal

First live photos of the updated ASEAN-spec CR-V from BIMS

It may have taken almost half a year since its global debut, but the updated 2021 Honda CR-V has finally made its way to the region following its launch in Thailand yesterday. Luckily enough, if you happen to be the Land of Smile then you can take already an up close and personal look at Honda's popular crossover in the metal.

All you have to do is visit the on-going 41st Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) – the first motor show to be held under “new normal” following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thanks to these live photos from the show floor, we get to see the updated CR-V, which will soon be making its way to the Philippines, in even greater detail. Compared to most catalog or official press photos, these should give us a better view of what the 2021 CR-V will look like in the actual metal.

From the photos, it is now easier to spot the changes on the CR-V. The most obvious change is the bumper which has been redesigned and now features more black cladding and contrasted by large chrome trim piece. The fog light housing has also been reshaped and features vents below it. Gone is the big chrome grille and in its place is a new sleeker black unit. Depending on the trim, a sensor is also be integrated into the grill.

Along the side, there doesn't appear to be any changes made apart from the new wheels. Unfortunately, no live photos of the rear were provided. But, the differences are too subtle and only appear to feature dark-tinted LED taillights, chrome trim on the tailgate, and a revised rear bumper.

Inside, it gets a host of upgrades making it a lot more luxurious. Higher-trim models get piano-black accents paired with wood trim in the cabin. Memory seats, auto-dim rearview mirror, wireless charging, and a panoramic sunroof are also available on the 2021 CR-V as well.

Under the hood, the Thailand-spec CR-V continues to be available with two engine options – a 1.6-liter turbo diesel or a 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine. The diesel mill produces 160 PS with 350 Nm torque and is paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission with 4WD only. The 2.4-liter mill has a max output of 173 PS with 224 Nm of torque and can come in both 2WD and 4WD.

Can't make it to BIMS in person (just like us)? Why not take a digital tour of the 2021 CR-V instead by watching Honda Thailand's video above.