2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

Already a highly accomplished and economical vehicle, the Honda CR-V Hybrid has been redesigned to be even more appealing as it moves into its sixth generation. It still uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but it now makes 204 combined horsepower and achieves even better fuel economy than before. Updated standard and available tech has helped the 2023 CR-V Hybrid to step up in order to compete in this fierce segment that includes the likes of the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. The larger dimensions of the compact SUV make the reduced cargo capacity when compared to the gas model feel less like less of an issue, and the car remains easy to drive. No doubt, the new generation will shake up the status quo in the segment

The starting MSRP price of the new 2023 Honda CR-V is $32,400 for the Sport Hybrid trim. There is only one other model in the range for now and it's the top-end Sport Touring, which will cost you $39,100. The base model is FWD as standard but can upgrade to AWD for $1,500. These prices do not include the $1,295 destination fee or any other admin.

While there are sporty small SUVs out there, the CR-V is not one of them. It has excellent manners around town, where it remains composed and is easy to maneuver. This is largely thanks to the light steering and tight turning circle. Feedback isn't entirely lacking, but it's not enough to push the compact with much confidence, and it will lean if you take corners too quickly. The powertrain wasn't designed with only efficiency in mind but also driving pleasure. It is Honda's intricate two-motor hybrid system doesn't have an actual gearbox, and the front wheels aren't even connected to the gas engine a lot of the time. Yet, the engine's speed is varied to simulate gear changes and improve driving pleasure, avoiding that droning sensation that would usually be associated with CVT-equipped hybrids. Though acceleration is far from brisk, the brakes are firm and easy to modulate. The focus is definitely on ride comfort, and while the suspension isn't exactly plush, it is more than sufficient for a small town car.

Since they cost more than their gas-fed counterparts, hybrids can be a bit daunting to buy. However, they are worth it, thanks to the money you save on fuel over time. In the case of the 2023 Honda CR-V, the electric motor also gives it a little extra kick when accelerating. This won't get it to 60 mph particularly quickly, but it is nice for driving around town. Still, you need to accept some compromises, and these include a smaller cargo hold. The larger body of the sixth generation helps make this feel like less of a problem, as the trunk is still competitive for the segment. But, if we review the Honda CR-V Hybrid purely on the merits of its powertrain and efficiency, it still falls behind class leaders like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which is also available as a plug-in. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling option for those who don't want to follow the herd.

Despite all the competition, the Honda CR-V is still a compelling choice in the USA. You only get a couple of trims, though, and there aren't many packages to help you customize your purchase. As an economy-focused vehicle, it makes sense to keep costs down and go with the Sport Hybrid, but we would still pay the small price of $550 to get blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.