.png)
The current generation of Honda's popular CR-V crossover launched back in 2017, and it's clearly showing its age. In order to keep itself at the front of the huge compact SUV pack, the CR-V has received a comprehensive redesign for the 2023 model year. The highlights include cleaned-up looks, fresher tech, and an all-new hybrid powertrain.
As if the outgoing model wasn't large enough, the 2023 CR-V is longer than before with a wider stance to balance it out. The overall design is much more sophisticated, with a stretched hood, lower belt line, upright grille, and straighter and more pronounced character lines. LED lighting comes standard on all models, with slimmer headlights and a new version of the CR-V's iconic vertical taillights. The redesigned SUV also features strengthened proportions, with lower A-pillars that have been moved rearward by 4.7 inches and outward by 2.8 inches. This major tweak also enhances outward visibility from the windshield. There are also some rugged touches here and there, taking inspiration from the Ridgeline truck and Pilot TrailSport SUV.
Another notable change is the next-generation hybrid powertrain, combining two electric motors with an updated 2.0 liter four-cylinder. The motors are now positioned next to each other as opposed to each axle, which delivers an improved torque output of 247 lb-ft. Horsepower has also been bumped up to 204 hp. Honda says that the tweaked hybrid setup also allows for more refined performance at highway speeds, as well as a higher maximum speed of 115 miles per hour. The CR-V hybrid can also tow up to 1,000 pounds, which is a huge accomplishment compared to last year's model. Rather than being offered as a separate trim level, the hybrid powertrain will be included in the higher-end Sport and Sport Touring trims.
Meanwhile, the lesser EX and EX-L trims receive an upgraded 1.5 liter turbo four-cylinder, making 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. A new turbocharger allows the powertrain to stay at its peak power for longer, and also achieves its highest level of torque 300 rpm earlier than before. Overall, the engine is now quieter, more refined, and releases fewer emissions to create a more pleasant driving experience. The turbo four-cylinder is mated with a CVT, sending power to all four wheels with the improved AWD system. It's optional on all trims, but is standard on the range-topping Sport Touring.
The AWD system comes with a broader range of selectable driving modes, including a new Snow mode that increases vehicle traction for slippery conditions. Normal and Econ modes carry over, while the Sport and Sport Touring trims gain a new Sport mode.
You'll immediately notice that the CR-V's redesigned interior is essentially a carbon copy of the Civic's layout, with the exception of the orange stitching. A stylish hexagonal grille design spans the entire length of the dash, keeping the front air vents hidden. The floating touchscreen infotainment screen is another familiar feature, with a 7-inch unit on the EX and Sport and a larger 9-inch one on the EX-L and Sport Touring. The latter trims also come with wireless smartphone charging. Other tech highlights include a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and four USB ports. The Sport Touring trim includes an immersive 12-speaker Bose sound system, which was custom-tailored for the CR-V's cabin.
The base EX trim is available with gray or black cloth upholstery, featuring an 8-way power adjustable driver's seat and black interior trim. Upgrading to the EX-L adds 4-way power adjustability for the passenger seat, gray or black leather upholstery, and shinier piano black trim. On the Sport, seating surfaces are downgraded to black cloth with black trim, while the Sport Touring has gray or black leather surfaces. However, both of the latter trims feature exclusive orange stitching and a black headliner.
Thanks to a longer wheelbase, the CR-V continues to be the segment leader in interior space, with an additional 0.6 inches of rear legroom. The rear seats now have 8 different recline angles too. Up front, the steering wheel angle is said to provide a lower driving position that is similar to sedans. In between the driver and front passenger Honda says that the center console bin is the largest in its segment. A roomy 36.3 cubic feet of trunk space is the largest of any CR-V, but the cargo floor can be lowered by up to 3 cubic feet for a best-in-class 39.3 cubic feet of space. Additionally, folding the rear seats flat expands cargo room to 76.5 cubic feet.
Honda hasn't announced pricing, but we do know that the 2023 CR-V will be released within the next couple of months, with the hybrid-powered Sport and Sport Touring arriving later on. The CR-V hybrid is a key step in Honda's electrification efforts, with the automaker aiming for half of the SUV's sales to represent hybrid variants.
Do you think the 2023 CR-V is a big improvement over the previous generation?
Images: Honda
Comments