2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

The 2023 Honda CR-V showcased a revamped aesthetic that diverged from its predecessor's vivid personality, presenting a cleaner, slightly meaner facade that anticipates graceful aging over time. It flaunted a blunt nose and elongated hood contributing to a sturdy appearance, supported by an extended wheelbase. Both the CR-V EX and EX-L trims featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, giving a uniform look externally. The interior of these models drew influence from the latest Civic, featuring metal mesh trim that neatly integrated the air vents. The EX-L trim further elevated the ambience with leather-wrapped touchpoints and advanced tech amenities such as a larger touchscreen and enhanced digital displays, stressing both quality and understated luxury.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid extended the boundaries of robust design, with a more assertive stance that exuded toughness akin to truck-like aesthetics. This model grew in size, both in length and width, and presented a bolder front and blockier rear with modernized LED taillights. Sport models, including the Sport Touring, introduced distinctive elements such as black exterior finishes and larger 19-inch wheels, emphasizing a rugged yet sophisticated road presence. Interiors followed Honda's newer design ethos seen in other models, pushing towards premium territories with high-quality materials and thoughtful stitching details, marking a significant step up in interior class and consistency across the Honda lineup.

The 2023 CR-V incorporated a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine across both EX and EX-L trims, pushing 190 horsepower and managing to deliver sufficient power for a compact SUV. However, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) detracted from the experience under stress with a noisy output during higher revs, though it enabled an impressive 29 mpg in combined driving settings. The vehicle excelled in ride quality, absorbing road imperfections with refined suspension and responsive steering, albeit marred slightly by the CVT’s intrusion at higher speeds.

Alternatively, the 2023 CR-V Hybrid embraced a new powertrain, a merging of a 2.0-liter engine with a hybrid system, yielding 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This setup not only offered an uptick in power but also improved torque for high-demand scenarios like highway merging. Unique drive modes including a Snow mode and a novel “B” shifter position for enhanced regenerative braking exemplified the hybrid’s technical advancements. Notably, it allowed for an optimized all-wheel drive distribution and boasted superior fuel efficiency targets, particularly in its FWD configuration reaching up to 43 mpg city and 40 mpg combined.

Within the cabin, the 2023 CR-V delivered commendable space, although it felt more car-like due to the lower seat positioning in the front row. It provided exemplary visibility and ergonomic seating, especially beneficial in the more spacious second row. Storage solutions were abundant, albeit mostly comprised of harder plastics, which could induce noise with stored items. The cargo area was accessible via a power liftgate, revealing up to 76.5 cubic feet of space when the back seats were folded, highlighting practicality for various storage needs.

The CR-V Hybrid not only echoed these internal dimensions but capitalized on its redesign to offer slightly expanded rear cargo space, totaling 76.5 cubic feet with rear seats down, aligning closely with competitors while providing easy access via a hands-free power tailgate. Enhanced passenger comfort was evident with improved legroom and multiple rear seat reclining options, crafting a highly accommodating interior paralleled with class-leading cabin storage.

Technology in the 2023 CR-V ranged from fundamental to advanced across trims. The base setup included a 7-inch touchscreen with essential connectivity features, while the EX-L trim expanded upon this with a 9-inch display and additional luxuries like wireless smartphone integration and upgraded audio. Despite these improvements, the options remained rather basic compared to competitors.

The CR-V Hybrid streamlined its offerings with consistent high-tech features across trims, such as dual-zone climate control and advanced connectivity including wireless options in upper trims. The Sport Touring variant packed premium additions like a 12-speaker Bose system and an intuitive navigation system that adjusts for fuel efficiency based on anticipated road conditions—demonstrating a blend of luxury and technological foresight.

Honda’s commitment to safety was prominent in both models. The CR-V featured a comprehensive suite of driver assist systems under the Honda Sensing banner, incorporating adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assists, and a newly refined collision mitigation setup. Despite some concerns over the lane-centering functionality, the overall package promised robust preventative measures.

The CR-V Hybrid showcased an identical safety ethos but enhanced it with additional features in higher trims like low-speed braking control and improved adaptive cruise control for smoother operation. Standard offerings along with strategic enhancements in the Hybrid confirmed a steadfast approach to integrating comprehensive safety technologies.