
The 2026 Honda CR-V continues its legacy as a top-tier compact SUV, offering refined hybrid powertrains, spacious interiors, and advanced tech. It’s a smart pick for families and commuters seeking comfort, efficiency, and everyday versatility.

The Honda CR-V comes with two powertrain choices. The first is a 1.5L turbocharged inline-4 with an estimated 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. As noted in last year’s review, it’s not the most powerful or engaging engine. This Honda is certainly not as fun to drive as the Mazda CX-5. However, it’s steady and comfortable. It does deliver on fuel economy, boasting 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
2.0L hybrid inline-4: Around 204 hp combined, with a CVT and excellent fuel economy upwards of 43 mpg in the city and 34 mpg highway. Much like the gas-only engine, the hybrid CR-V is a fuel-efficient and practical choice, but not one that will wow those looking for a driving machine.

The 2026 Honda CR-V continues to impress with its interior quality. Two rows of seating with generous rear legroom. Cabin ergonomics are excellent, with intuitive controls and a clean dashboard layout.
Materials across the lineup suit a variety of tastes. Lower trim levels have soft-touch materials and cloth upholstery, while upper trim levels, like the EX-L and Sport, get extra touches like leather interior, ambient lighting, and a heated steering wheel.
Cargo space is generous for the compact SUV class: 39.3 cu-ft behind the second row, expanding to 76.5 cu-ft with seats folded. That beats the Toyota RAV4, Ford Bronco Sport, and Subaru Forester.

As for the infotainment system, the Honda CR-V brings a nice mix of features but has a few downsides: a 7-inch touchscreen is standard, and a 9-inch screen is only available on higher trims. Many of Honda’s competitors now offer larger screens even in base models. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, but wireless connection is only available on higher trim levels.
Included in every trim level is a solid list of driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision warning.

The Honda CR-V offers six trim levels, three for each powertrain choice. The LX is the gas-powered base trim and is equipped with Honda Sensing, cloth seats, and the basic 7-inch infotainment screen at an MSRP of $32,370.
We recommend moving up the trim levels to the Sport Hybrid. For $35,500, the Sport adds hybrid efficiency, sportier styling with roof rails, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It also includes an upgraded infotainment system, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Going all out on the highest trim, the Sport Touring Hybrid, adds on 19-inch alloy wheels and a hands-free liftgate. Inside the cabin, you get a leather interior with heated front seats, Bose audio, and wireless smartphone integration.
The CR-V continues to be one of the best all-around compact SUVs, competing closely with the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-50. And it’s backed by Honda’s standard 3-year/36,000-mile basic and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranties.
The 2026 Honda CR-V builds on its reputation as a go-to compact SUV for families, commuters, and weekend adventurers. With a refined hybrid option, spacious interior, and a strong suite of tech features, it’s a well-rounded choice that delivers comfort, efficiency, and reliability. Compared to rivals like the RAV4 and CX-50, the CR-V stands out for its rear legroom, quiet ride, and intuitive design.