The 2026 Honda CR-V remains America’s top-selling compact SUV, blending everyday reliability, family-friendly space, and smart updates that keep it ahead of rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. This year’s model introduces refined hybrid performance, enhanced tech across trims, and a rugged new TrailSport variant, all while prioritizing fuel efficiency and Honda’s legendary durability.
Powertrain and Performance
The CR-V offers two efficient powertrains suited for U.S. commuters and road-trippers. Gas models use a proven 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, mated to a smooth CVT and optional Real Time AWD with torque-vectoring for confident handling. Hybrid setups pair a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder with two electric motors for 204 combined horses, featuring a lock-up torque converter for direct feel and drive modes including Eco, Normal, Sport, and new B-range engine braking.
EPA estimates highlight efficiency: gas versions achieve 28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg (FWD), while hybrids top out at 43/36/40 mpg class-leading figures that save owners hundreds annually on fuel. Reviewers note the ride’s composure over rough pavement thanks to multi-link rear suspension and sound-deadening improvements, with 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds for hybrids.
Trim Lineup and Pricing
Nine trims cater to budgets from entry-level buyers to luxury seekers: LX, EX, Sport, EX-L, Sport-L (gas); and Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, Sport Touring Hybrid. All seat five with 39.3 cubic feet of cargo behind the second row (expanding to 76.5 with seats folded), plus a class-exclusive center rear seat that slides for flexibility.
| Trim | Starting MSRP (est.) | Powertrain | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| LX (Gas) | $30,000 | 1.5L Turbo FWD | 17″ alloys, 7″ touchscreen, Honda Sensing suite |
| EX (Gas) | $32,500 | 1.5L Turbo AWD opt. | Moonroof, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats |
| Sport Hybrid | $34,000 | 2.0L Hybrid FWD/AWD | 18″ black wheels, dual exhaust, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto |
| TrailSport Hybrid | $38,000 | 2.0L Hybrid AWD std. | Skid plates, all-terrain tires, hill descent control, orange accents |
| Sport Touring Hybrid | $42,000 | 2.0L Hybrid AWD | Bose audio, head-up display, leather, parking sensors |
Prices exclude destination fees (~$1,350) and are U.S.-assembled in East Liberty, Ohio, or Alliston, Ontario.
Interior and Tech Highlights
The cabin impresses with soft-touch materials, supportive seats, and 41.3 inches of generous rear legroom ideal for car seats or adults. Standard 7-9 inch touchscreens run Honda’s intuitive interface, with Google built-in on upper trims for voice-activated navigation and apps. Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, USB-C ports, and a rear-seat reminder system come standard, while Sport Touring adds a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Safety is comprehensive via Honda Sensing: adaptive cruise with traffic jam assist, lane-keeping, auto emergency braking, and now improved road departure mitigation. Families appreciate the wide rear doors (80 degrees) and low cargo floor for easy loading.
Driving Dynamics and TrailSport Appeal
On pavement, the CR-V feels planted with responsive electric power steering and minimal body roll, earning praise for its “just right” balance. The new TrailSport Hybrid amps up adventure with raised suspension, recovery hooks, and torque-vectoring AWD for light off-roading think gravel roads or mild trails without compromising 37 mpg combined. Towing maxes at 1,500 pounds across the board.
Ownership and Competition
Honda backs it with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty, plus 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage and complimentary maintenance visits. Resale value remains strong, with low projected 5-year costs (~$0.45/mile). Against competitors, it edges the RAV4 in rear space and the Tucson in ride quality, though some rivals offer more turbo grunt. Available now at U.S. dealers, the 2026 CR-V proves evolution beats revolution for practical SUV supremacy.
2026 Honda CR-V FAQs
What are the main powertrain options for the 2026 Honda CR-V?
Gas models feature a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower and a CVT. Hybrids use a 2.0-liter engine plus electric motors for 204 combined horsepower, with drive modes like Eco, Sport, and B-range for engine braking.
Which trims come with the hybrid powertrain?
Hybrids are standard on Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid. Gas engines power LX, EX, Sport, EX-L, and Sport-L trims.
What is the fuel economy like?
Gas versions get about 28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg (FWD). Hybrids lead with up to 43/36/40 mpg, dropping slightly to 37 mpg combined on AWD TrailSport models.
Does every trim offer all-wheel drive (AWD)?
Real Time AWD is optional on most gas and hybrid trims, but standard on TrailSport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid for better traction.
What safety features are standard?
All trims include the Honda Sensing suite: adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, lane-keeping assist, collision mitigation braking, blind-spot monitoring (EX and up), and road departure mitigation.
How much cargo and passenger space does it have?
It seats five with 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats (76.5 cubic feet folded). Rear legroom measures 41.3 inches, and the center rear seat slides for flexibility.
What tech comes in the interior?
Expect 7-9 inch touchscreens with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Google built-in on higher trims, USB-C ports, and wireless charging. Sport Touring adds a 12.3-inch digital cluster and Bose audio.
What makes the TrailSport Hybrid different?
It includes off-road upgrades like all-terrain tires, skid plates, raised suspension, hill descent control, recovery hooks, and orange accents, while keeping hybrid efficiency.
What are the starting prices and warranty details?
Prices begin around $30,000 for LX gas, up to $42,000 for Sport Touring Hybrid (plus $1,350 destination). Honda offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage.
How does it compare to rivals like the Toyota RAV4?
The CR-V offers more rear space and a smoother ride, strong resale value, and similar efficiency, though some competitors provide higher towing (CR-V maxes at 1,500 pounds) or more power.