The Honda CR-V was first introduced in 1997 as their compact-recreation-vehicle, or maybe it was a comfortable runabout vehicle, and it’s been a hot selling SUV.
Now the newest generation has a more rugged and handsome look. It has a longer wheelbase and wider stance than the outgoing model, but still retains its classic D-pillar taillights.
As far as power, the base CR-V now comes with a 1.5 L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with 190 hp / 179 lb-ft linked to a CVT, but the hybrid model not only looks sportier with a different front and rear end, it’s also more powerful with 2 electric motors paired to a 2.0L engine putting out a combined 204 hp / 247 lb-ft. 2WD model CR-Vs are estimated to get a combined 40 mpg which is pretty on par with the hybrid compact SUV segment, while the AWD models take a ding in efficiency with a combined 37 mpg which trails behind the Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape hybrid variants with AWD. Getting some good fuel economy in a compact SUV is always a good thing, and even for more efficiency, there’s drive modes like eco, and sport. Sport mode throttle is more responsive, and they pump in sound. Reason for that is Honda believes the driver should experience joy when driving your compact suv. There’s also the paddles behind the steering wheel which control the regenerative braking, and there’s a new "B" mode which is like a 1-pedal drive mode.
The CR-V Hybrid is now more rigid than before. The 15% stiffer body supports help for a smoother ride and improved steering feel. There’s also a new AWD system capable of distributing 50% percent of power front and back. And if that’s not enough newness for you, there’s also a newly added snow mode that smoothens throttle input even more than the Eco mode.And if you’re looking to tow, the CR-V Hybrid is now rated to tow 1,000 lbs. Looking inside the cabin, the CR-V hybrid feels well put together.
Behind the 2nd row there’s 36.3 cu.ft of cargo room, and fold down the 60/40 split seats to yield 76.5 cu.ft. There’s 8 cupholders throughout the cabin with standard rear vents to keep your backseat folks cool. Up front there’s a 7 inch gauge cluster, two spots to stow cell phones, and 2 USB ports. A 7 inch touchscreen comes standard, but our model has the available 9 inch touchscreen with wireless apple CarPlay and android auto. The front row has an ample amount of space. The seats have a new frame for better posture and stability, and standard lumbar support. You’ll also notice the same honeycomb elements from the Honda Civic on this dash, with buttons and AC vents that give out some very satisfying clicks. Occupants in the second row will also be happy to know there’s loads of space. With a combination of wide-opening doors, easy ingress and egress, and good legroom, the second row isn’t a bad place to be.
Keeping you and your passengers safe is the Honda sensing suite of safety features which includes forward collision mitigation, road departure warning, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with low speed follow.
Competition for the CR-V hybrid include the aforementioned Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, and the Kia Sportage. The 6th generation CR-V will only have 4 trims: EX, Sport, EX-L, and sport touring. EX and EX-L will give you the turbocharged 1.5 L engine, and pricing starts at $31,110 plus destination. The sport and sport touring trims starting at $32,450 will have the more powerful hybrid engine, and will include 2 rear USB ports, black alloy wheels, a sunroof, black roof rails, and sport gloss black front and rear bumpers. If you’re looking for amenities like that 9 inch touchscreen, sport leather seats, Bose premium audio system, and hands-free power tailgate, the sport touring trim starts at $38,600. AWD can be had for an extra $1,500 on all but the Sport touring trim in which it comes standard.
The CR-V has been on the road for more than 20 years and they’re everywhere, But with compelling value and fun road manners, there’s a reason for that. So if you’re looking for fuel efficiency, good tech, and a roomy interior, this may be a good option for you.
00:00 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid
00:57 Engine
02:20 Fuel Economy
02:42 Drive Modes
04:40 AWD
06:06 Interior
08:08 Safety Features
08:53 Fair Purchase Price
09:11 Competitors
09:20 Pricing & Trim Levels
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