The 2023 Honda CR-V: Back and better than ever.

The Honda CR-V has been America’s best-selling SUV for the past 25 years. It’s back for 2023 and features a rugged new look, sophisticated design and a new, more advanced 4^th generation hybrid-electric system that brings a sporty demeanor and more fuel-efficient powertrain for a more satisfying drive experience overall. The CR-V is now 6-generations strong and Honda has positioned the CR-V Hybrid as the lineup’s flagship. They expect the Hybrid to account for around 50 percent of its sales. Napleton News thinks it will be a crucial step in Honda’s path to electrification.

New dimensions and premium looks

The new Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid are now longer and wider, with a significantly broader stance. The result is what designers would call a lower beltline and a longer, more powerful front end. Mechanically, the CR-V features newly tweaked drive dynamics with more torque and capabilities.

In addition to these new good looks, there are four new trim levels, including EX, EX-L and top-line Sport and Sport Touring models. A 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 powers both the EX and EX-L models. It produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. This engine mates to a continuously-variable transmission (CVT). The flagship Sport and Sport Touring models are powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine with a two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain system. This package delivers 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. The two-motor Hybrid delivers power to a two-stage lockup system.

Front-wheel drive is standard, but an updated Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is optional on all vehicles except for the Sport Touring model, in which it is standard. The Real-Time AWD improves traction in slippery conditions such as snow and mud. It can send up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels if needed.

Safety-equipped.

The new Honda CR-V is loaded with both Active and Passive safety technology. This includes the latest version of Advanced Compatability Engineering (ACE) architecture which is enhanced for larger platform vehicles. Enhanced body structures have been redesigned to route crash energy away from occupants in the cabin. Side impact is also improved with reinforced beams in the roof, side sill and B-pillar doors.

Also on board: Honda’s Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. A wide-angle camera and wave-millimeter technologies help increase safety around the CR-V. That’s not all: Other technologies include Blind Spot information as standard, Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Low Speed Braking Control and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR). These join existing features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow and Lane Keep Assist (LKAS).

Built close to the customer.

Continuing Honda’s plan to build products close to their customers, the new 6^th-generation Honda CR-V will be built in three plants in North America. These include the East Liberty Auto Plant in Ohio, the Indiana Auto Plant and Honda of Canada MFG.

The new Honda CR-V launches this summer, with the Honda CR-V Hybrid model debuts later in the year.