2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid: A Closer Look

FRONT

The CR-V is a successful seller for Honda. It is offered in gasoline only, or a hybrid like we have here. Which to buy? We took the latter out for a close look.

STORAGE

The first thing we do when getting a vehicle delivery is check and see if there is a spare tire. On the hybrid, no there is not one. These electric hybrid battery parts block the space where a tire would normally go. Couldn't the engineers find another place for this assembly? Perhaps under the seats? In any case, while a compact tire can fit in the rear cargo area, it will have to be on top of the floor, not under it.

TIRE/WHEEL

The hybrid is issued with 19-inch wheels with 235/55 R-19 all-season tires.

ENGINE

The standard CR-V has a small 1.5-liter four-cylinder turbo cranking a healthy 190 horsepower, with a fuel rating of 28 mpg city, and 34 highway. Honda says it has been improved with more refinement and response. This Sport Touring hybrid has a new advanced 2-Motor setup. Its larger 2.5 liter has a combined output of 204 horsepower. Fuel economy is rated at 34 highway, and 40 city. One of the reasons the fuel economy is the same for both on the highway is because hybrid systems mostly function in city commuting where the battery assists the gas engine in acceleration. At freeway speeds, the hybrid system is pretty much asleep, and the vehicle depends mainly on the gas motor.

Our test SUV was the AWD unit. There is a 2WD version that offers a better claimed economy of 43 MPG city and 36 highway. Those seeking maximum fuel economy might consider this version instead.

DRIVE MODES

There are three drive modes to pick from, Eco, Normal, and Sport.

SCREEN

The info screen isn't very big, but large enough for comfortable use. The lack of glare was a positive feature, as well as being easy to use. The climate controls are located underneath and are very simple to use.

GAUGE

The gauge cluster is very simple and easy on the eyes.

GRILLE/HEADLIGHTS

The redesigned front end has a square-shaped grille. Like any styling change, some like it, and some do not. Since most SUV buyers are interested in function and value overlooks, it probably doesn't matter either way. The headlight beam rides a bit closer to the ground than most, but the light is strong and reaches out to long distances. We did about 250 miles of night driving on the highway, and didn't have any complaints.

POV

The CR-V is comfortable on long trips. The leather trim has a nice aroma too. The fuel economy can vary depending on temperature. Basically, hybrids don't perform at their max in hot weather, and ours was warm enough at 85-101 degrees. Still, our best highway fuel economy was 33 mpg, only one less than advertised. But city driving was no better. This was not only due to the warm evenings, but most of our city travels were short 1-2 mile trips over a 32-mile spread for three days. Operating in milder climates and longer trips will result in better economy numbers.

PRICE

The base non-hybrid CR-V starts at about $30K. A standard hybrid version is $34K. This was a fully loaded deluxe AWD Touring. It comes loaded with EVERYTHING. That means no options except shipping. That being the case, this $39,845 fee seems reasonable.