2025-2026 Honda CR-V Buying Guide
Compact SUVs have taken over American driveways, and few badges are as familiar as the CR-V. After a 25-year history as America’s best-selling SUV , Honda’s versatile runabout enters 2025 largely unchanged but with a few headline-grabbing twists and an even bigger redesign already teased for 2026. Below is everything shoppers need to know before signing on the dotted line.
What’s New?
- 2025 introduces the limited-run CR-V Hydrogen Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCEV) , the first plug-in hydrogen SUV offered in North America (California-only).
• Dealers such as Honda North confirm that the redesigned 2026 Honda CR-V lineup boasts enhanced performance , refreshed styling, and newer tech.
Engines, Performance & Driving Feel
| Powertrain | Horsepower / Torque | 0–60 mph (est.) | Drive | Notes |
| 1.5-L Turbo I4 | 190 hp and 179 lb-ft | 8.7 s (AWD) | FWD / AWD | Smooth CVT, modest acceleration |
| 2.0-L Hybrid (2-motor) | 204 hp and 247 lb-ft | 7.6 s (AWD) | FWD / AWD | Better thrust & towing |
| FCEV + Plug-In Battery | 174 hp (est.) | TBD | FWD | 270-mile hydrogen range + 29-mile EV range (Honda estimate) |
The CR-V remains a solid and comfortable daily driver with predictable handling; hybrids feel punchier in city traffic, while the turbo model prioritizes simplicity and cost.
Fuel Economy
If mpg matters, the CR-V delivers: gas trims return 28–34 mpg city/highway (FWD) and hybrids stretch that to 43/36 mpg (FWD). AWD cuts roughly 1-3 mpg across the board.
Cabin, Cargo & Comfort
Inside, the CR-V’s cockpit is spacious and user-friendly ; clever storage bins keep odds-and-ends in check. Rear seats recline generously, and the flat floor makes three-abreasters happier.
- Maximum hold: 39.3 cu-ft seats up / 76.5 cu-ft seats down —top of the class.
• 2024-era tweaks brought body-stabilizing front seats that reduce long-trip fatigue.
Infotainment & Safety Tech
Base LX/EX trims ship with a 7-inch touchscreen running wired Apple CarPlay & Android Auto; EX-L and above receive a slick 9-inch touchscreen plus wireless mirroring and charging pad.
Every CR-V carries the Honda Sensing suite, including forward collision warning and the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) . Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert appear from EX trim upward.
Trim-Level Cheat Sheet
| Trim | Powertrain | Key Extras | MSRP (2025)* |
| LX | 1.5 T | LED lights, 17" wheels, 7" screen | $30,100 |
| EX | 1.5 T | Moonroof, heated seats, dual-zone A/C | $32,350 |
| EX-L | 1.5 T | Leather, 9" screen, wireless CarPlay | $35,000 |
| Sport | Hybrid | Paddle shifters, black accents | $35,700 |
| Sport-L | Hybrid | Combines EX-L luxury with hybrid power | $38,700 |
| Sport Touring | Hybrid AWD | Bose 12-spk audio, hands-free tailgate | $42,150 |
*Destination included; 2026 pricing TBA but likely to rise 1-2 %.
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
• Smooth ride and confident handling
• Best-in-class interior space
• Excellent crash ratings (IIHS TSP, NHTSA 5-star)
• Hybrid models’ stellar mpg
Cons
• Base infotainment feels undersized
• Conservative styling versus rivals
• Gas trims lack the oomph & features of hybrids
Reliability Watch: CMBS Concerns
Owner forums have flagged repeated warnings and spontaneous braking tied to CMBS; one thread details a federal investigation after 2,900 complaints and 47 crashes across Accord/CR-V models. If your test drive triggers an alert, log it with the dealer, keep paperwork, and open a Honda corporate case number immediately.
Smart Buying Tips
- Configure colors, accessories, and compare dealer quotes with Honda’s web Build & Price tool .
- Shopping used? Pull a report from CARFAX—their largest international vehicle history database flags mileage rollbacks, damage, or open recalls.
- For the freshest inventory and possible launch incentives, monitor local dealers as 2026 models start arriving late next year.
The Verdict
Whether you need a commuter, a kid-hauler, or a weekend-adventure shuttle, the CR-V’s mix of space, safety, and efficiency is hard to beat. Hybrid trims hit the sweet spot, while the upcoming 2026 redesign promises an even sharper edge. Compare trims, scrutinize dealer offers, and drive each variant—then bring home the CR-V that best fits your lifestyle.
The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.