All-new 2023 Honda CR-V debuts, now with dual-motor hybrid power

Honda introduces the all-new CR-V for the 2023 model year, making its global debut in the U.S., one of the nameplate’s most successful markets. The latest version brings the Japanese carmaker deeper into electrification by introducing a hybrid powertrain with the model’s first-ever dual-motor setup. 

The all-new Honda CR-V debuts for the 2023 model year 

“As America’s outright best-selling SUV of the past 25 years the Honda CR-V has played a critical role in our past, but what’s significant about the all-new CR-V is the important role it will play in our future,” said Mike Kistemaker, assistant vice-president of Honda sales at American Honda. 

He adds that the model’s sixth-generation guise is poised to become the best in the compact crossover segment, with the hybrid version expected to make up half of the total sales.  

Exterior

The new CR-V measures 4,694mm long, 1,864mm wide, and 1,691mm high on a 2,701mm wheelbase, increasing in size overall compared to the outgoing version. Taking a more angular approach in terms of design, the model gives off a more rugged and dynamic vibe, inspired by the refreshed aesthetics of the Ridgeline and Passport TrailSport.    

The Sport and Sport Touring trim levels feature platinum trims on the fascia 

A long hood begins at the base of the repositioned A-pillars, flowing into the gloss black mesh grille with a pair of ports on the lower intake featuring platinum highlights. LED headlamps are standard across the range. Exterior mirrors have been repositioned lower on the front doors to reduce blind spots, accompanied by a strong beltline that enhances the new CR-V’s character. 

A high beltline makes the new CR-V look more dynamic

Towards the back, a body-color roof spoiler hovers above the all-LED tail lamps that flank the rear window. A streamlined rear apron is complemented by rectangular exhaust finishers. The entry-level EX and EX-L variants wear Berlina Black 18-inch wheels, while the Sport and Sport Touring trim levels go for 19-inch split 5-spoke alloys.      

Interior 

The CR-V’s interior is familiar to say the least, evoking the cabin used by the 11th-generation Honda Civic. A honeycomb mesh trim on the dashboard is the most powerful visual cue carried over from the compact sedan, serving to disguise the air vents and maintain a clean layout. The largest center console in its segment can be found between the Body Stabilizing Seats in front, offering up to nine liters of space. 

The cabin takes a page from the 11th-generation Civic 

Beyond just looking good, the cabin also offers generous proportions for both passengers and cargo. The rear bench has eight angles of recline to go with the 15mm increase in legroom. Depending on trim level, a selection of fabric and leather materials is available for the upholstery. 

There’s 1,028 liters of space for luggage, and that’s with all seats up. Lowering the rear load floor on the EX and EX-L expands the capacity to 1,113mm while collapsing the second-row seats frees up a maximum of 2,166 liters of space.   

Tech & Safety

Drivers will be treated to a 7-inch digital instrument panel on all trim levels, with the Sport and Sport Touring incorporating a digital power flow meter alongside a physical speedometer. The EX and Sport each feature a 7-inch touchscreen dashboard screen, while the EX-L and Sport Touring boast a 9-inch monitor that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard

The flagship Sport Touring uses a bespoke 12-speaker Bose premium audio system, surrounding all occupants on board in a sea of sound. There’s a variety of charging options on the 2023 CR-V, from illuminated USB charging ports to Qi wireless charging for compatible handsets. 

An array of advanced passive and active safety features is present on the new CR-V, starting with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) architecture that is said to offer improved frontal and side impact protection. New front airbags have been installed, featuring revised structures to reduce head rotation during impacts. For the first time on the CR-V, knee and rear-passenger side impact airbags are standard. 

The range-topping trim levels combine a digital display and analog speedometer

Honda Sensing is standard across the range, and now includes a new wide-angle camera, millimeter-wave radar, Traffic Jam Assist, Low-Speed Braking Control, and Traffic Sign Recognition. A Driver Attention Monitor is also offered.

Engine & Drivetrain    

The new CR-V’s EX and EX-L trim levels have a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine rated at 190 horsepower and 242 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Sport and Sport Touring run on a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson cycle engine that teams up with a pair of electric motors, producing 204 horsepower and 335 Nm of torque. 

A continuously variable transmission is offered across the range

Power is routed to the drive wheels via a continuously variable transmission, while the Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System has been upgraded for improved traction. Standard Normal and Econ modes are now joined by a Snow setting on the EX and EX-L, as well as a Sport mode on the Sport and Sport Touring trims.       

Are you looking forward to having the 2023 Honda CR-V here? 

Pricing information has yet to be disclosed. The standard EX and EX-L trims of the 2023 Honda CR-V will hit the market by the third quarter of 2022, while the hybrid Sport and Sport Touring will make their debut later in the year. Do you think the all-new CR-V will make a great addition to Honda’s Philippine lineup?              

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