The compact crossover is one hotly contested segment in the marketplace. For more than 25 years, Honda has been in a big player with the CR-V, and the latest version looks to stay toward the top.
For 2023, the redesigned Honda CR-V sports a new look that has a very sophisticated, grown-up styling. There’s no odd shapes or daring lines with this new CR-V, which doesn’t stand out as much as it once did. It now has a more premium look, especially if you choose the range-topping Sport Touring Hybrid version. With black 19-inch wheels and a set of roof rails, the CR-V looks like a premium ride, especially if you select the Canyon River blue paint version.
The bigger size pays dividends inside. The 2023 CR-V has more space for front and rear seat passengers. Passengers in the rear seats benefit from more legroom and a bit more headroom than before. Usually where the CR-V falls short is seat comfort. However, I was surprised that the seats had more comfort than I recall from previous versions. Also, the cabin noise is lower than before. The touch screen is easy to use and works quickly to respond to touch the first time.
Hop behind the wheel of the 2023 Honda CR-V and this crossover provides a nice ride with decent handling on the highway and take back roads with confidence. Power is adequate. This is no rocket ship when you hit the gas, but it gets your there without feeling pokey. It makes some racket when you want all the power at once though. Fuel economy is good and really gets thrifty in traffic with lots of stop-and-go where it will run in EV mode for short spurts.
Cost: $39,500 base price $40,825; as tested
MPG: 40 mpg city; 34 mpg highway. I managed 37.6 mpg in 290 miles of mixed driving.
Safety: blind spot information system; rear cross traffic monitor; front and rear parking sensors; collision mitigation braking system; road departure mitigation; adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow; lane keeping assist system; pedestrian detection; traffic
Things to know: The redesigned CR-V is bigger inside with improved technology and a pleasant ride with a handsome new face.
Pros:
- An improved interior that is more in-line with other not so compact crossovers
- Handles well and is hushed on the highway
Cons:
- Slow acceleration and it makes a racket when call for all the power at once
- Pricey in the top trim level version
