The all-new 2023 Honda CR-V will begin arriving in Honda dealerships this month, the company announced. The 6th generation of Honda’s best-selling SUV will be available with two turbocharged trim levels, EX and EX-L, and two hybrid-powered trim levels, Sport and Sport Touring.
“The all-new Honda CR-V raises the bar in every conceivable way – design, performance, safety and technology and the most fun-to-drive CR-V we’ve ever made,” said Mamadou Diallo, vice president of auto sales at American Honda.
The CR-V lineup starts with the EX trim, which comes with an enhanced 1.5-liter turbo engine with VTEC, and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that’s been retuned for improved response, Honda said. The combination offers 190 hp and 179 lb.-ft. (SAE net) of peak torque.
A new 7-inch touchscreen audio system is standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, physical knobs for volume and tuning, and a simplified menu structure. Heated front seats, partial digital instrumentation, dual-zone automatic climate control, a one-touch power sliding moonroof, heated outside mirrors, LED headlights and 18-inch wheels are also standard.
CR-V EX-L also features the 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and builds on the EX’s equipment with leather seats and a standard 9-inch touchscreen with a physical volume knob, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and a simplified menu structure. Qi-compatible 15W wireless smartphone charging, an upgraded 8-speaker audio system and Low Speed Braking Control are also standard.
Representing a key step in Honda’s electrification strategy, starting with the 2023 model year, about 50% of CR-Vs sold will be powered by Honda’s all-new more powerful 4th-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system featuring a pair of larger electric motors now mounted side-by-side.
The 2023 CR-V Sport will come standard with the new hybrid system featuring a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine. Combined system output climbs to 204 hp, while the traction-motor peak torque rises to 247 lb.-ft. Moreover, the hybrid powertrain brings a major fuel economy benefit compared to the 1.5-liter Turbo powertrain, with an EPA city rating of 43 mpg in the city for Sport versus 28 mpg for EX/EX-L, and a combined rating of 40 mpg for Sport versus 30 mpg for EX/EX-L (all with 2WD).
Sport also features new styling that includes gloss black exterior accents, rectangular exhaust finishers and Berlina Black 18-inch wheels. Inside, Sport-specific seating surfaces and a leather-wrapped shift knob and steering wheel are standard.
At $38,6001, the Sport Touring will sit atop the CR-V lineup, also featuring the new, more-powerful 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain, along with standard all-wheel drive and larger 19-inch wheels and tires. Inside, a new 12-speaker Bose premium audio system with Bose Centerpoint technology and SurroundStage delivers an optimal listening experience, while Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System and Wi-Fi Hotspot capability are also standard.
An updated version of Honda’s Real Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Intelligent Control System is available on all grades and standard on Sport Touring. A new Hill Descent Control system enhances CR-V’s off-road capability, Honda said.
Drivers can also customize the driving experience for various conditions with three selectable drive modes, Normal, Econ and a new Snow mode that maximizes available traction and performance in slick snowy conditions. Sport and Sport Touring models also add a new Sport mode.
In addition, all 2023 CR-Vs come standard with an expanded Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistive technologies that includes Traffic Jam Assist and a smoother, more natural feeling to functions, such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS). A rear seat reminder and rear seatbelt reminder are also new and standard across the lineup.
