The Honda CR-V is presented as a top seller in the crowded US SUV market, a claim the brand backs with a history of strong sales, especially in the most recent quarters. The focus this generation is clearly on hybrid efficiency, aligning with broader shifts toward greener drivetrains.
The fourth generation brings a twin‑engine hybrid electric transmission to the foreground, which the engineers describe as the centerpiece of the new CR‑V. Honda projects that the hybrid option will account for a substantial portion of early sales as buyers seek efficiency without sacrificing versatility.
The system pairs two electric motors with a 2.0‑liter Atkinson cycle petrol engine using direct fuel injection. The motors sit close to one another, a layout choice that allowed the engine to grow its displacement slightly and deliver stronger torque, a point Honda underscores as a notable improvement in this generation.
Across four trim levels, the CR‑V offers Sport and Sport Touring hybrids as key choices. The combined output of the hybrid powertrain reaches 207 hp, with peak torque of 335 Nm, versus the 215 hp and 315 Nm of the previous generation. This translates to a confident highway experience, according to Honda engineers.
On the highway, the twin‑engine setup is designed with efficiency and steady performance in mind. The model also increases towing capacity to 453 kg for the first time, expanding its practical utility for light hauls. For traditional power, base versions continue to offer a 1.5‑liter turbocharged engine with around 193 hp mated to a CVT, enhanced by a redesigned turbocharger and tuning that broadens the usable power band and sharpens response to throttle input.
Honda has refined the CVT to cut noise and vibration, including a mode that simulates gear changes for a more familiar driving feel. All trim levels feature all‑wheel drive, with the top trims benefiting from a front‑to‑rear torque shift capability that improves traction when needed.
The design language marks a departure with a low, horizontal waistline and a longer front end. Designers drew inspiration from other Honda models, including the Ridgeline pickup and the Passport TrailSport, to craft a cohesive family look while preserving the CR‑V’s practicality and silhouette.
Dimensionally, the CR‑V is longer and wider, and torsional rigidity has increased to support crisper handling. Visibility benefits from redesigned A‑pillars and updated side‑mirror shaping. Wheel options range from 18 inches in the base to 19 inches on higher trims, reflecting a balance between comfort and style. A standout feature is the record luggage capacity of 1028 liters, with folding rear seats doubling the space when needed. An interior emphasis on comfort includes thoughtfully placed storage, such as a nine‑liter center console bin that stands out in its class.
The infotainment setup prioritizes the driver, with a standard 7‑inch touchscreen and a larger 9‑inch display in higher trims, both supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The audio experience features a premium 12‑speaker system with advanced processing that aims to deliver clear sound for all occupants, no matter seating position.
On safety, Honda aims for top IIHS recognition with updated systems. New airbags for the driver and front passenger help reduce the risk of severe injury in frontal crashes, including a donut‑style design for the driver’s head protection and a three‑chamber design for the front passenger. For rear passengers, knee airbag options and side airbags are now available. Driver monitoring alerts appear in the instrument cluster if distraction is detected, and a reminder system helps ensure nothing is left in the rear seats when doors are opened for exit. An expansive safety suite also includes a wide‑angle camera, millimeter‑wave radar, blind‑spot monitoring as standard, and added assistance for traffic jams and traffic sign recognition. Adaptive cruise control and lane keeping complete the package.
Will the Honda CR‑V reach the Russian market again? The model has a long history there, with earlier generations achieving notable volume. After a phase of reduced presence and a shift in strategy starting in 2016, Honda signaled that official imports would wind down, though dealers may still move remaining stock and explore opportunities for newer generations. In a recent interview, a local dealer indicated plans to bring the sixth generation CR‑V to Russia in the near future, reflecting a broader regional strategy for the model.
For North America, production of the new CR‑V anchors itself in three North American facilities, located in Ohio, Indiana, and Canada. Sales are anticipated to begin ahead of the autumn period, with pricing details released closer to launch.