New Honda CR-V Review

Providing a choice between fuel-smart turbo power and even smarter hybrid power, the 2026 Honda CR V is very competitive when it comes to performance. This generation benefits from an updated transmission, a revised turbo, and an upgraded all-wheel drivetrain. Even the vehicle body was upgraded for strength and stability.

LX, EX, and EX-L trim levels share the benefits of an In-Line 4-Cyl with turbochargers. CR V turbo drivers command 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is aided by a stop-start system for redlights. These turbos earn 28/33 mpg in city/highway driving. This fuel efficiency is excellent for the class.

2026 CR-V Sport, Trailsport, Sport-L, and Sport Touring trim levels benefit from parallel electric motors and a powerful hybrid battery to assist its four-cylinder engine. While the previous hybrid generation had a top speed of 86 mph, the new generation has a top speed of 115 mph. 

Furthermore, the 2026 CR-V Hybrid powertrain produces a combined rate of 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque from its four-cylinder engine and parallel electric motors. Capable of earning 43 mpg in the city, the new CR V Sport is rated for 40 mpg in combined driving.

If you are wondering if the CR-V is actually big enough for your needs, you should know that passenger volume is 103.5 cu ft, and cargo area is 36.3 cubic feet for most hybrid models.

Turbo models increase that to 39.3 cubic feet with a dual-level cargo hold floor. For bigger loads, you can claim up to 76.5 cubic feet by folding the second row. 

For those who are concerned about CR V capability under difficult conditions, rest assured that it offers a Real Time AWD system with a snow mode to complement its normal and economy modes. If there is a need for extra traction, an Intelligent Control System can send half of the torque to the rear axle.

Hill Descent Control is standard, ensuring help on our steepest mountain grades. Operating at speeds up to 12 mph, the system helps regulate downhill travel to achieve the twin goals of traveling safely and protecting the transmission. 

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With push button start, an excellent infotainment system, and extensive driver assistance features, every new Honda CR V has the standards that today’s shoppers need most in an affordable SUV.

Furthermore, this contemporary cabin features anti-fatigue front seats and reclining rear seats. Taking care of adults, the second-row has a remarkable 41 inches of legroom. All trims have dedicated rear HVAC ducts to keep passengers cool in our hot summers. EX trims add back-lit USB ports for the second row.

As a high value package, the new Honda CR V EX adds a digital instrument display and a 10-way power chair to the driver’s cockpit. Comfort features include dual-zone automatic climate controls and heated front seats.

Higher trims pile on the features, including luxuries like leather seats and helpful amenities like Walk Away Auto Lock. Hybrid versions have unique upholstery options. Sport models offer fun orange stitching on both regular and hybrid trims. For more information about Honda CR V trim levels and options, check out this extended review.

Honda packs everything you might expect and more into the dash tech on the 2024 Honda CR V.  This includes a big touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HondaLink compatibility, and physical knobs to augment voice and touch commands. 

Adding more screenspace to compliment the touchscreen, a 7-inch driver screen can be upgraded to a new 10.2-inch TFT meter display for the full cockpit experience. A WiFi hotspot is available. New CRVs can be equipped with a premium 320-watt, 8-speaker audio system or an exciting 12-speaker Bose sound system.

Drivers will find parking easier with the standard rear parking sensors and rearview camera. On the go, a road sign assist announces road signs on the dash screens. This provides the driver with information they may need for safer travel. 

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The 2026 Honda CR-V has ten airbags including rear side airbags. The family driver will appreciate that there are rear seat belt alerts and a rear seat reminder.

Likewise, the camera systems have been improved. A wider angle ensures the most effective forward collision warnings, lane keeping, and road edge detection. New features include low-speed automatic emergency braking assistance and the more comprehensive traffic jam assist for busy conditions. 

In addition, the new Honda CR V can take the lead with low-speed follow features and adaptive cruise control. Lane keeping assistance can maintain a safe trajectory. When equipped with a blind spot monitor, the driver has another tool to avoid side collision dangers. Additionally the rear cross traffic monitor assists with safer reverse maneuvering.

Curious about the new CR V?   Bring your questions to the knowledgeable staff at Earnhardt Honda. Contact us.

When you visit your Phoenix Honda dealership -- Earnhardt Honda -- ask about our favorite CR-V features. The staff will be happy to demonstrate how different technologies can assist you and make your life easier. 

The CR-V LX has a dual screen cockpit, a wireless charger, Traffic Jam driving support, active noise cancellation, and Honda Sensing. The EX adds dual-zone climate controls, a driver power chair, ambient LED lighting, Walk Away Auto Lock, keyfob remote start, and a moonroof. EX-L models add a power passenger chair, a power liftgate, parking sensors, low-speed braking control, the larger TFT meter display, and an acoustic windshield.

The CR-V Sport and Trailsport trim have similar features to the EX while the Sport L mirrors or improves upon the EX-L. Of course, the Trailsport also has a more athletic exterior and a sportier interior with fun aspects, such as its ambient LED lighting. Sport Touring models have elegant interiors with a luxury-like atmosphere and all the top technology tools.

Schedule a test drive at Earnhardt Honda. Our inventory is usually rich with choices. If you don’t see what you want, please reach out. We know when new shipments are arriving and can keep you informed.