Honda presented on Tuesday the new Honda CR-V 2023 and bring a new interior and exterior design, slightly larger dimensions and improved powertrains, including a new two-motor hybrid option. This follows the newly refined, car-like HR-V as the second Honda crossover to receive a major redesign this year.
A cleaner, bigger design
At first glance, the sixth-generation CR-V sports a much sleeker design than before. The car has grown 2.7 inches in overall length, is 0.4 inches wider and has a 1.6 inch longer wheelbase. Under the hood is a upgraded version of the company’s existing 1.5-liter turbo-four or a 2.0-liter twin-engine hybrid setup. This hybrid is positioned as the top-line Sport and Sport Touring models, and Honda says they will account for half of all CR-V sales (gas-only versions are labeled EX and EX-L).
The Most Powerful CR-V Ever
With two electric motors mounted side by side, 204 horsepower, 247 lb-ft CR-V Sport models are the most powerful CR-Vs ever; it’s true that it’s not a high bar to cross, but that’s it. Meanwhile, the 1.5-liter turbo paired with a CVT produces 190 hp and 179 lb-ft, which is now available across wider swathes of the rev range.
This engine is also said to be quieter than before. Available on all trims and standard with Sport Touring, all-wheel drive has been tweaked, while the CR-V gets Hill Descent Control and a new snow driving mode.
Sportier driving in Honda’s new CR-V
Honda says the new CR-V’s ride is sportier overall thanks to a revised, stronger chassis that has torsional stiffness increased by 15 percent and stiffer front and rear subframes.
In addition to one new design, very similar to the Civic, with a metallic honeycomb grille and minimal dash lines to reduce reflected distraction, the interior gets more comfortable seats, 0.6 inches more rear legroom and 38.3 cubic feet of cargo space, the most ever offered in a CR-V. The storage compartment between the seats is apparently the largest in its category.
The technology inside the CR-V
To inform and entertain the occupants, the infotainment screens measure seven or nine inches, depending on the version. Both are compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, sure, but the bigger screen will be able to do it wirelessly. A 12-speaker Bose audio system is fitted to the Sport Touring top trim.
Driving assistance Honda detection they’re standard across the board and use a new wide-angle camera, while the company’s next-generation front airbags, also found on the Civic, better cradle the head in a crash. Knee airbags and rear side airbags are also new standards.
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