Watch out, Kia Sorento PHEV! Bigger, new 2023 Honda CR-V SUV now available with plug-in hybrid power, but will it come to Australia?

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of Honda's crucial new-generation CR-V has been revealed in the UK, opening the door for the more advanced hybrid SUV to make it to Australia to take on the Mazda CX-8, Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Kluger.

As a reminder, Honda's sixth-generation CR-V has grown substantially in size, with a 40mm longer wheelbase compared to before, and it could push into the large SUV segment, leaving the imminent ZR-V as the brand's mid-size SUV contender.

Honda Australia would not be drawn on the prospect of the plug-in hybrid CR-V, known as the e:PHEV, for the local market, but has committed to offering an electrified version of each new-generation model going forward.

This means the e:HEV version will at least be available to local buyers, borrowing technology already seen on the Civic, ZR-V and HR-V.

But first, details on the e:PHEV. Full specifications, like battery size and powertrain outputs, are yet to be revealed, but Honda is claiming 82 kilometres of full electric driving range, while the battery can be charged from 0-100 per cent in just 2.5 hours, under the right conditions.

The e:PHEV system pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with dual-electric motors.

As a reminder, Honda’s sixth-generation CR-V has grown substantially in size, with a 40mm longer wheelbase compared to before.

The only other mainstream large SUV with a plug-in system is the Kia Sorento, which serves up a 68km driving range from a 14kWh battery, and is priced from $81,080 before on-road costs.

Mitsubishi's Outlander is also available as a PHEV, though it is classed as a mid-size SUV, with pricing starting from $56,490.

Those not keen on a plugging in, however, will have the option of the e:HEV hybrid, which also pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with two electric motors.

The new-generation CR-V is expected to launch in Australia later this year, and chances are it will feature Honda’s Sensing Suite of advanced driver safety as standard.

Again, Honda is yet to detail this powertrain, but like the Civic, ZR-V and HR-V before it, the new CR-V hybrid can switch between EV, hybrid and engine driving modes, depending on conditions.

For reference, the Civic and ZR-V feature a 135kW/315Nm e:HEV powertrain, priced at $55,000 drive-away and $47,200 respectively in top-spec LX trim.

Regardless, the new-generation CR-V is expected to launch in Australia later this year, and chances are it will feature Honda's Sensing Suite of advanced driver safety as standard.