2025–2026 Honda CR-V Review: Evolution of a Crowd-Pleaser
What’s New for 2025 and 2026?
Honda’s compact SUV enters the mid-cycle stretch with two notable updates. First, the 2025 model ushers in a hydrogen fuel-cell plug-in hybrid variant—the first of its kind in North America that will only be sold in California due to fueling-station limitations hydrogen fuel-cell plug-in hybrid variant. A year later, dealers such as Honda North in Massachusetts are already advertising a “redesigned 2026 Honda CR-V” that promises improved performance, a refreshed design, and state-of-the-art technology redesigned 2026 Honda CR-V.
Powertrain & Efficiency
The line-up still starts with a 1.5-liter turbo-four, but enthusiasts will gravitate toward the hybrid setup that pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors for quicker acceleration and better mileage.
| Powertrain | Key Components | Notable Benefit |
| 1.5-L Turbo Gas | Inline-4 + CVT | Lowest entry price |
| 2.0-L Hybrid | 2 e-motors + e-CVT | Best fuel economy |
| Hydrogen PHEV | Fuel cell + battery | Zero tailpipe emissions |
(All configurations are adapted from MotorTrend’s 2025 model overview.)
Interior Space & Tech
In classic CR-V fashion, packaging reigns supreme: you get 39.3 cu ft of cargo room with the rear seats up and 76.5 cu ft when they’re folded 39.3 cu ft of cargo room. Base trims make do with a 7-inch touchscreen , while pricier versions jump to 9-inch infotainment plus wireless phone mirroring 7-inch touchscreen.
Quick spec snapshot
| Feature (2025) | Base LX | Sport Touring Hybrid |
| Touchscreen size | 7.0 in | 9.0 in |
| Starting MSRP | $31,450 | $42,150 |
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | Standard | Standard (wireless) |
Safety Spotlight: Collision-Mitigation Concerns
Honda equips the CR-V with an expansive suite of driver aids, yet recent owner reports show that real-world execution can falter. In one case, a new owner’s dashboard repeatedly displayed “Collision mitigation see dealer,” and she was told the glitch was software-related and “not fixable.” Collision mitigation see dealer.
More broadly, a 2022 federal investigation tallied nearly 2,900 complaints, 47 crashes, and 93 injuries linked to inadvertent braking events 2,900 complaints, 47 crashes, and 93 injuries. Some dealers dismiss the phenomenon as “normal,” while Honda sometimes cites driver misunderstanding of the system’s limits. If you test-drive a CR-V, force the CMBS to prove itself on a safe, empty road—and document any anomalies before signing the paperwork.
Trims & Pricing
MotorTrend lists six trims that cover a broad financial spectrum: the base LX begins at $31,450, while a fully-loaded Sport Touring Hybrid crests $42,150 . Shoppers in Massachusetts can already place deposits on the 2026 successor through dealers like Honda North, which is touting versatile interiors and efficient powertrains versatile interior and efficient powertrains.
How It Stacks Up
The CR-V competes against Toyota’s RAV4, Nissan’s Rogue, and Subaru’s Forester. Impressively, it ranks fourth out of 14 compact SUVs in MotorTrend’s standings ranks fourth out of 14 compact SUVs. Nevertheless, critics still find the exterior styling conservative and wish for an official TrailSport off-road trim.
| Metric | Honda CR-V (2025) | Toyota RAV4 (reference) |
| MT Ranking | 4th / 14 | 6th / 14 (2025 RAV4) |
| Max Cargo (cu ft) | 76.5 | 69.8 |
| Hybrid Option | Yes | Yes |
| Hydrogen Variant | Yes (CA only) | No |
(RAV4 figures for context; ranking data from MotorTrend.)
Real-World Owner Feedback
Sandra Tallant’s forum saga is a cautionary tale for early adopters. Members recommended second opinions, corporate escalation, and meticulous record-keeping because some service departments call CMBS quirks “normal.” service departments call CMBS quirks “normal.” Her experience underscores the value of persistence—and of requesting a ride-along with the lead mechanic so the fault can be captured in real time.
Pros & Cons at a Glance
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
| Spacious cabin & segment-leading cargo room | CMBS false-braking investigation still unresolved |
| Efficient hybrid and new hydrogen PHEV option | Base infotainment screen feels small |
| Competitive pricing ladder | Styling remains conservative |
The Verdict — Should You Buy One?
If you prioritize practicality, fuel thrift, and resale value, the CR-V remains a benchmark. The 2025 model offers breadth—from budget-friendly LX to cutting-edge hydrogen PHEV—while the 2026 refresh promises more flair. However, do your due diligence on the Collision Mitigation Braking System, and insist on a thorough pre-delivery inspection. For many families, the CR-V’s blend of space, efficiency, and safety tech will hit the sweet spot; just be prepared to advocate for software support if you end up with an over-eager braking system.
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