America’s favorite SUV is getting even better.
The 2023 Honda CR-V debuted this month with a rugged and sophisticated design, along with a more advanced fourth-generation hybrid-electric system for a fuel-efficient, sporty and more capable driving experience. CR-V hybrid models are positioned as the top of the CR-V lineup and will represent about 50 percent of sales for this 6th generation, a key step in the Honda electrification strategy. The 2023 CR-V is launching this summer, with the Hybrid model launching later in the year.
Externally, the new CR-V is longer and wider, which gives it a more sporty, aggressive look. (The Sport and Sport Touring hybrid models feature even bolder styling!) The updated design also repositions windshield pillars and adds door-mounted side mirrors, which radically improve outward visibility. That’s paired with a big “fun-to-drive” factor and enhanced handling, torque and power.
The CR-V also features a more sporty and modern interior, which naturally includes the most up-to-date tech features you want and need. It’s also more quiet and more comfortable, with more leg room, new front Body Stabilizing Seats to reduce fatigue and improve posture, and the most cabin and cargo space in CR-V history. Standard class-leading safety features include a new Honda Sensing safety and driver-assistive technology with a new wide-view camera and radar, next-gen front airbags, as well as new rear side-impact and knee airbags.
Tech features include a digital instrument display, larger standard touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay or AndroidAuto compatibility; digital instrument panel; built-in storage space for smartphones; USB ports; and more.
New More Powerful, More Capable Hybrid Models
For a sportier driving feel, CR-V Sport and Sport Touring feature an all-new 4th-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system with a newly refined 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine that adds direct fuel injection and is mated to a pair of electric motors that are now mounted side-by-side. This new configuration allows for the use of a larger propulsion motor with increased torque output. Combined system output is 2041Â hp (a 3 hp increase, ISO net), while the traction-motor peak torque rises to 247 lb.-ft. of torque (up 15 lb.-ft.).
The hybrid-electric system is more refined at highway speeds and for the first time offers up to 1,000 pounds of towing capacity. Linear Shift Control elevates the driving experience by mimicking the vehicle speed-linked rev feel associated with a conventional drivetrain shifting gears at wide open throttle. The new hybrid-electric system also allows for a substantial increase in continuous maximum speed—which climbs from 86 mph to 115 mph.
Under the hood of the CR-V EX and EX-L is an updated 1.5-liter turbo engine with additional refinement, improved emissions performance and 190 horsepower (SAE net at 6,000 rpm). Enhancements include a new high-efficiency, high-response turbocharger and 4-2 exhaust port cylinder head that help the 4-cylinder engine maintain peak power over a broader range of rpm. Its torq
ue peak of 179 lb.-ft. also arrives 300-rpm earlier, from 1,700-5,000 rpm, improving response. Engine noise also has been reduced significantly.
The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) for the 1.5-liter turbo has been updated to reduce noise and vibration. Significant drivability and performance improvements include Step-Shift programming that simulates gear changes at full throttle.
An updated Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ improves traction management in slippery conditions, like snow and mud. Available on all grades, and standard on Sport Touring, the system can now send up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels.
For the first time CR-V features Hill Descent Control. Standard across the lineup, the system increases off-road capability with more control on steep, slippery declines. Drivers can select speeds between 2 and 12 mph.
Three standard selectable drive modes optimize the driving experience for various conditions. In addition to Normal and Econ modes, a new Snow mode maximizes available traction and performance is slick snowy conditions. Sport and Sport Touring models add a Sport mode.
Key CR-V Features:
- Rugged and sophisticated exterior design
- All-new 4th-generation two-motor hybrid system (Sport, Sport Touring) is more powerful, makes CR-V more fun to drive and adds towing capability
- Distinctive bolder styling for hybrid-powered Sport and Sport Touring trims
- Sporty, modern, more spacious and comfortable interior
- Standard digital instrumentation
- 9-inch HD touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility (EX-L and Sport Touring)
- Standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ compatibility (EX and Sport)
- Enhanced global Honda Architecture
- Updated 1.5-liter Turbo engine (EX, EX-L)
- Retuned Real Time All-Wheel Drive with Intelligent Control™
- New Hill Descent Control
- New Snow driving mode
- Standard Honda Sensing® system with new wide-view camera and radar, plus new Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Low-Speed Braking Control and Traffic Sign Recognition system (TSR)
- Next-gen front airbags
- New standard knee and rear passenger side-impact airbags