2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V presented a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance compared to its predecessor. With a blunt nose, grille, long hood, and stretched wheelbase, the sixth-generation model adopted a cleaner design that was expected to age gracefully. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, while the interior boasted leather-wrapped seats, a steering wheel, and a shift knob, elevating the cabin's quality. The dashboard, inspired by the latest Civic, incorporated metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing the vehicle's modern appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure in styling, adopting a more assertive and truck-like stance. It was longer and wider than the previous model, with a muscular presence accentuated by the classic D-pillar taillights, now featuring three L shapes for a modern look. The Hybrid Touring trim, tested in Canyon River Blue, included black roof rails, mirrors, and 19-inch wheels, adding to its sporty appearance. The interior followed the design seen in the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with high-quality materials and attractive contrast stitching, contributing to a premium feel.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 179 lb-ft of torque between 1,700 and 5,000 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate performance for a compact SUV. However, the CVT's droning noise during hard acceleration detracted from the driving experience. Despite this, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It offered a smooth and engaging drive, handling various road conditions with ease. Fuel efficiency was impressive, with an average of 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, on the other hand, combined a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date, with a top speed of 185 km/h. The hybrid powertrain was responsive, particularly during highway merging, and offered a towing capacity of up to 450 kg. The CVT and four drive modes, including a new Snow mode, enhanced the driving experience. The Hybrid's fuel efficiency was notable, with a combined rating of 6.4 L/100 km, significantly better than the non-hybrid model.

The 2023 Honda CR-V was touted as the roomiest yet, though the driver's seat felt more car-like than SUV-like. The second row offered ample space, resembling a midsize model, with comfortable seating and good legroom. Storage options were plentiful, with a large centre armrest bin and various trays and bins throughout the cabin. The cargo area provided 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid benefited from the model's larger exterior, translating to increased interior volume. It offered 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate and wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 mm, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. The interior included a cubby for smartphones and eight cupholders, with best-in-class console storage.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with physical knobs and buttons for ease of use. The EX-L trim added a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and an upgraded sound system. However, the top-of-the-line Touring Hybrid was required for a Bose premium sound system and navigation. While the technology was improved, it didn't surpass competitors in terms of features.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped, with a 7-inch touchscreen and physical controls. The Hybrid Touring trim included a 9-inch display, wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, Wi-Fi capability, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. It also featured a smart navigation system that optimized fuel efficiency based on the route. The Hybrid's technology package was comprehensive, offering a range of features for convenience and entertainment.

The 2023 Honda CR-V saw significant improvements in driver assist systems, with the Honda Sensing suite offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and more. New features included traffic jam assist and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V was built to Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering standards, with new airbag designs for enhanced safety. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid included the Honda Sensing suite, with improved collision mitigation, road-departure mitigation, and lane-keeping assist systems. New safety features included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The Hybrid also benefited from structural updates for increased safety, earning a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.