2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, introduced as part of a mid-cycle refresh, closely resembled its gasoline-powered counterpart in terms of dimensions and design. Both models shared identical length, width, and height measurements, and even the 19-inch alloy wheels on the Touring trim were the same. Inside, the cabin layout was nearly indistinguishable, featuring the same dashboard, multi-function center console, 7-inch infotainment screen, and steering-wheel-mounted controls. The hybrid model, however, had subtle differences such as blue-outlined Honda emblems, "Hybrid" badges, a hidden exhaust in the rear bumper, and LED fog lights on EX trims and above. The gear shifter was replaced with a push-button selector, and paddle shifters were repurposed to adjust brake regeneration.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V maintained a design that blended into the crowded compact crossover market. While it had a few distinguishing features like the grille and some chrome accents, its overall appearance was similar to other crossovers. The CR-V was available in eight colors, though many were shades of gray, black, or white, with vibrant options like Aegean Blue Metallic and Radiant Red Metallic being rare on dealer lots. The interior offered black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather, with higher trims featuring wood panels and more chrome. The seats had a modern, angular design, but competitors like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson offered more distinctive styling.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a two-motor hybrid system with all-wheel drive as standard. It combined a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric generator/starter motor and a propulsion motor, eliminating the need for a conventional transmission. The total system output was 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, compared to the gasoline model's 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid's fuel economy was significantly better, with EPA ratings of 40 mpg city, 35 highway, and 38 combined, compared to the gasoline model's 27/32/29. However, it ranked third among hybrid competitors, behind the Ford Escape Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The CR-V Hybrid offered a smooth ride and good handling, with the AWD system engaging as needed. The hybrid drivetrain provided more fun to drive than the gasoline model, but the EV mode was limited and often switched out easily.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, powered by a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offered smooth and steady acceleration, taking about 7.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. All trims featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which provided a less engaging driving experience compared to competitors with conventional transmissions. The CR-V came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The suspension setup included a MacPherson strut in the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing decent handling and ride quality. While not the most exciting to drive, the CR-V was reliable and predictable, making it a solid choice for everyday driving.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid had to compromise on cargo capacity to accommodate the battery pack beneath the cargo floor. It offered 33.2 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and up to 68.7 cubic feet with the seats folded flat, compared to the non-hybrid's 39.2 and 75.8 cubic feet. Despite this, it still provided more volume than the Ford Escape Hybrid. The CR-V Hybrid also featured a low cargo floor for easy loading and unloading and maintained passenger comfort with more overall space than its direct competitors. The configurable center console bin was a practical feature, though the armrest's adjustability was too loose.

The 2021 Honda CR-V focused on fitting five people comfortably and carrying their gear. It offered 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, more than the Toyota RAV4, and had a bit more cargo space behind the second row. With the rear seats folded, it provided 75.8 cubic feet of total cargo volume. Depending on the trim, the tailgate could be manually operated, power-operated, or hands-free. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's design prioritized functionality, making it a practical choice for families and those needing ample cargo space.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid came standard with Bluetooth connectivity, Pandora compatibility, and a single USB connector. Higher trims added keyless entry, push-button start, and automatic headlights. The EX trim and above featured a 7-inch touchscreen display, Honda Link, smartphone integration, SiriusXM, HD radio, and additional USB ports. The top Touring trim included navigation, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. However, the infotainment system's lack of haptic feedback and complicated menu navigation were drawbacks.

The 2021 Honda CR-V LX had a basic 5-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Other trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Special Edition and EX trims had a 180-watt audio system, while the EX-L added two more speakers. The Touring trim offered a 300-watt system with a subwoofer and satellite navigation. Charging ports were plentiful, with USB ports in the front and second row, and the Touring trim included a wireless phone charger.

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a 5-Star Safety Rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies, including automatic braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and a multi-angle rearview camera. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available starting with the EX trim.

The 2021 Honda CR-V also earned a five-star NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award, though it missed the Top Safety Pick+ rating due to lower scores in headlight evaluation and the updated side crash test. It received a "Good" rating in the original side crash test and an "Acceptable" rating for the LATCH system. Honda Sensing was standard across all trims, including features like a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was standard from the EX trim upwards.