The Honda CR-V continues to build upon its reputation as one of the most popular and versatile compact SUVs on the market. Now in its sixth generation, the CR-V has evolved from its humble beginnings into a sophisticated, feature-rich vehicle that expertly balances practicality, comfort, fuel efficiency, and driving dynamics. The latest model year brings subtle refinements to the already impressive package that debuted with the complete redesign for the sixth generation, maintaining the Honda commitment to continuous improvement.
2025 Red Honda CR-V
With its spacious interior, innovative technology, impressive safety features, and efficient powertrain options, the CR-V remains positioned at the forefront of the competitive compact SUV segment. Whether navigating urban environments, embarking on weekend adventures, or serving as a reliable family hauler, the CR-V delivers a compelling combination of versatility and value that resonates with a broad spectrum of drivers.
Exterior Design: Modern Sophistication
The Honda CR-V maintains the clean, sophisticated exterior design language introduced with the sixth generation. The front fascia features a bold grille flanked by slim LED headlights, creating a distinctive lighting signature. The long hood and strong horizontal character lines contribute to a more planted, SUV-like stance than earlier generations.
The profile reveals carefully considered proportions, with a longer wheelbase that enhances interior space and ride comfort. The distinctive vertical taillights remain a CR-V hallmark, though they’ve evolved into a more contemporary interpretation that integrates seamlessly with the rear design. Ground clearance of 208 mm for all-wheel-drive models provides adequate capability for light off-road excursions or navigating snowy conditions.
Honda offers the CR-V in several exterior colours, including Solar Reflection Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, and the striking Canyon River Blue Metallic. The Sport trim adds distinctive visual elements, including gloss black exterior accents, unique badging, and exclusive wheel designs that enhance its athletic character.
Interior: Spacious, Versatile, and Refined
Inside, the Honda CR-V continues to impress with a cabin prioritizing comfort, practicality, and thoughtful design. The horizontally oriented dashboard creates a sense of spaciousness, while high-quality materials and precise assembly reinforce the CR-V reputation for refinement. Physical controls for frequently used functions are logically arranged and easy to operate while driving, complementing the touchscreen interface.
Passenger space remains generous, with 1,060 mm of front legroom and 1,026 mm in the rear, allowing even taller adults to travel comfortably. The driver and front passenger benefit from supportive seats with multiple adjustment options, while rear passengers enjoy a comfortable bench seat with generous head and shoulder room.
Cargo capacity continues to be a CR-V strong point, with 1,113 litres of space behind the rear seats and an impressive 2,166 litres with the 60/40-split rear seats folded. The low load floor height makes loading heavy or bulky items easier, while the available hands-free power tailgate on higher trims adds convenience when approaching the vehicle with arms full.
Thoughtful interior storage solutions abound, including a large center console with a sliding and adjustable tray, door pockets sized to accommodate water bottles, and numerous smaller compartments for everyday items. These practical touches reflect an understanding of how owners use their vehicles in daily life.
Technology: Connected and Intuitive
The Honda CR-V offers a comprehensive suite of technology features to enhance convenience, connectivity, and entertainment. Depending on the trim level, the infotainment system is controlled through a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display with improved graphics, faster response times, and a more intuitive menu structure than previous generations.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration come standard on most trims, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity without cables. The available wireless charging pad keeps compatible devices powered up during drives. The Touring Hybrid trim features a premium Bose audio system with 12 speakers that deliver rich, immersive sound throughout the cabin.
Other notable technology features include a 7-inch digital instrument display that provides customizable information directly in the driver’s line of sight, a 360-degree camera system on the Touring Hybrid trim that provides a bird’s-eye view when maneuvering in tight spaces, and a head-up display that projects crucial driving information onto the windshield to minimize distraction.
The Honda satellite-linked navigation system, available on higher trims, offers accurate guidance with 3D rendering of complex intersections and landmarks, along with real-time traffic updates to help avoid congestion. Voice recognition capabilities allow drivers to control various functions with natural speech commands, further reducing distraction while driving.
Safety: Honda Sensing and Beyond
Safety remains a cornerstone of the design philosophy, with the comprehensive Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistive technologies standard across all trim levels. This system includes Collision Mitigation Braking System, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, and Lane Keeping Assist System.
The Honda Sensing system benefits from hardware and software refinements that improve its performance in various conditions. The Blind Spot Information System has been enhanced with increased range, providing earlier warnings about vehicles in adjacent lanes. Rear Cross Traffic Monitor adds protection when backing out of parking spaces, alerting drivers to approaching vehicles that might not be visible in mirrors.
The Touring Hybrid trim adds Low-Speed Braking Control, which can detect obstacles at very low speeds and apply the brakes to prevent collisions while parking. Traffic Sign Recognition displays relevant speed limits and other important signage in the instrument display, helping drivers stay informed about changing road conditions.
Beyond active safety features, the Honda CR-V structure incorporates the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body design, which distributes crash energy more evenly in the event of a collision. Multiple airbags, including front, side, and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors, provide comprehensive protection for all occupants.
Powertrain Options: Efficiency and Performance
The Honda CR-V offers two distinct powertrain options, allowing buyers to choose the version that best suits their priorities and driving preferences.
The standard powertrain in LX 2WD, LX AWD, and Sport trims features a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 243 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) refined to provide more natural-feeling acceleration while maximizing efficiency. Front-wheel drive comes standard on the LX 2WD, while the LX AWD and Sport include the Honda Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the EX-L Hybrid and Touring Hybrid trims feature the fourth-generation two-motor hybrid system. This powertrain combines a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 204 horsepower. The hybrid models deliver exceptional fuel economy ratings while providing responsive acceleration thanks to the electric motors’ instantaneous torque delivery.
All CR-V models feature drive mode selectors that allow drivers to choose between Normal, Eco, and Snow settings, adjusting throttle response, transmission behaviour, and other parameters to optimize performance for different conditions. The Sport trim adds a Sport drive mode that sharpens throttle response and adjusts the CVT programming for a more engaging driving experience.
Drive Dynamics: Balanced and Refined
The Honda CR-V delivers a driving experience that balances comfort, refinement, and engagement. The suspension system—MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link setup in the rear—provides composed handling and a comfortable ride even on imperfect road surfaces. The longer wheelbase compared to earlier generations contributes to improved stability and a more planted feel, particularly at highway speeds.
Steering response is direct and predictable, with appropriate weighting that inspires confidence without requiring excessive effort during low-speed maneuvers. The braking system provides progressive pedal feel and strong stopping power, with the hybrid models incorporating regenerative braking that harvests energy during deceleration to recharge the battery.
Wind and road noise are well-controlled thanks to extensive sound insulation and acoustic glass, creating a quiet cabin environment that reduces fatigue on longer journeys. The available active noise cancellation system on higher trims further enhances interior quietness by counteracting low-frequency engine and road noise.
Off-road capability, while not the primary focus, is sufficient for light trail driving and adverse weather conditions. The AWD models can transfer up to 40% of torque to the rear wheels when needed, improving traction on slippery surfaces. Hill Descent Control, available on AWD models, maintains a constant speed on steep descents without driver intervention, adding confidence on challenging terrain.
What Are the Available Trims in 2025?
The Honda CR-V lineup offers five distinct trim levels, each with its own combination of features, technologies, and value propositions to meet different buyer needs and preferences:
LX 2WD
The entry-level LX with front-wheel drive is the gateway to CR-V ownership. It is well-equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, Honda Sensing safety suite, automatic climate control, heated front seats, LED headlights, and a 7-inch Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility display. This trim offers an impressive blend of essential features and value for drivers who prioritize efficiency and don’t require all-wheel drive capability.
LX AWD
Building on the LX 2WD foundation, this trim adds Honda Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System for enhanced traction in inclement weather and light off-road situations. The additional all-weather capability makes this a popular choice in regions that experience significant snowfall or for drivers who frequently travel on unpaved roads. Otherwise, it maintains the same feature set as the LX 2WD.
Sport
The Sport trim elevates the visual appeal and driving experience with distinctive styling elements including gloss black exterior accents, unique 19-inch wheels, and exclusive badging. Inside, it adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shift knob, and sport pedals for a more premium feel. Technology upgrades include a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power moonroof. The Sport drive mode enhances throttle response for a more engaging driving experience.
EX-L Hybrid
This trim introduces an advanced two-motor hybrid system, delivering exceptional fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Beyond the powertrain, the EX-L Hybrid adds leather-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, heated steering wheel, and advanced safety features including Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Monitor. The infotainment system gains integrated navigation and wireless phone charging capabilities.
Touring Hybrid
As the flagship of the CR-V lineup, the Touring Hybrid represents the most luxurious and technologically advanced version available. It builds on the EX-L Hybrid’s features with premium additions including a hands-free power tailgate, Bose premium audio system with 12 speakers, heated rear seats, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera system, and head-up display. The distinctive 19-inch machined alloy wheels and chrome exterior accents enhance its upscale appearance.
Each trim in the CR-V lineup offers a compelling combination of features at its respective price point, allowing buyers to select the version that best aligns with their priorities, whether they value efficiency, technology, luxury amenities, or all-weather capability.
2025 Honda CR-V: A Benchmark in Versatility
The Honda CR-V continues to exemplify the qualities that have made it one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market: versatility, efficiency, reliability, and thoughtful design. By offering a choice of conventional and hybrid powertrains across multiple trim levels, Honda ensures there’s a CR-V to suit a wide range of preferences and priorities.
The comprehensive safety features, spacious and flexible interior, and intuitive technology make the CR-V an excellent choice for families, while its efficient powertrains and comfortable ride quality appeal to commuters. Weekend adventurers will appreciate the available all-wheel drive and generous cargo capacity.
With the latest model, Honda has refined an already impressive package, maintaining the CR-V position as a benchmark in the fiercely competitive compact SUV segment. By blending practicality with thoughtful innovation, the CR-V continues to deliver the versatility and value that drivers have come to expect from the bestselling Honda SUV.