5 Things We Like About the New 2023 Honda CR-V

Did you know that Honda has produced more than 5 million CR-Vs in North America since 2006 and that the Alliston assembly plant in Ontario will build its 2 millionth CR-V this year? It’s safe to say Honda’s compact SUV is extremely popular.

A lot of people were eagerly awaiting the sixth-generation 2023 CR-V, which was officially unveiled on Tuesday and will reach dealerships starting this summer. Here are five things we love about the new CR-V:

1. First-Ever CR-V Hybrid in Canada

Finally, it’s coming. While the CR-V is one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market, only customers in the U.S. had access to the hybrid variant that debuted for the 2020 model year. Now built in Canada and featuring a next-generation system, this gas-electric CR-V is the most powerful ever with 204 hp and 247 lb-ft. of torque.

We’ll have to wait a bit more to get the official fuel consumption ratings, but they’re bound to be impressive.

2. Rugged and Sophisticated Styling

The outgoing CR-V has never won any design contest, so a fresh new look is very much appreciated. The 2023 model features more rugged and sophisticated styling that takes inspiration from the recently redesigned Ridgeline and Passport TrailSport. Sport and Touring grades stand out further with more aggressive front and rear facias, rectangular exhaust finishers and exclusive wheel designs.

3. Loads of Space

The CR-V is also more comfortable and more spacious than ever, with a notably larger front-to-rear-seat couple distance and more rear-seat legroom (+15.2 mm). Between the front seats is the largest centre console bin in its class with nine litres of space.

As for cargo, you’ll be well served by the new CR-V’s trunk, which can fit 1,028 litres of gear, or 1,112 litres if you lower the load floor. Folding the rear seats down will get you 2,166 litres, a number that’s only bested by the Mitsubishi Outlander.

4. Improved Driving Dynamics

A revised chassis and a significantly stronger structure result in a sportier and more engaging driving experience, Honda promises. The wheelbase and tracks are increased for a more stable ride, while handling is enhanced thanks to a stiffer rear subframe for the retuned multilink suspension.

Honda engineers have also revised the continuously variable transmission and Real Time AWD system with Intelligent Control, so expect smoother and more confident operation. Additionally, there’s a new Hill Descent Control feature along with a new Snow mode.

5. Safety is No Joke

Beyond its stronger structure, the 2023 Honda CR-V benefits from a long list of safety upgrades. First introduced on the latest Civic, the new driver and passenger front airbags were designed to minimize the potential for severe brain trauma associated with angled frontal collisions.

The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver assistance technologies integrates a new wide-angle camera and millimetre-wave radar to improve collision prevention performance. Blind spot information is now standard. Also new are Traffic Jam Assist, Low-Speed Braking Control and Traffic Sign Recognition, not to mention a Rear Seatbelt Reminder and Rear Seat Reminder.

Can the Honda CR-V somehow catch the Toyota RAV4 and become the best-selling SUV in Canada? Time will tell.