The 2023 Honda CR-V has just debuted with the automaker boasting the compact crossover is now bigger, faster, and more fuel-efficient. The Honda CR-V already had one of the segment's roomiest interiors and now has even more cargo-carrying capacity. Honda is also bringing its hybrid model to Canadian CR-V buyers for the first time, promising improved fuel economy for the popular compact crossover.
A notable departure from the outgoing CR-V's angular futuristic styling, Honda is instead going rugged with the 2023 model. The big open grille and sharp headlights help accomplish that, along with a fake skidplate front bumper underlay to give it off-road visual aspirations.
While the CR-V gets bigger for 2023, the extra dimensions aren't too dramatically different. It's 69 mm longer than before, still a parking-friendly 4,694 mm overall. It's a hair wider, again keeping growth in check.
The extra length means more cabin space, including more rear-seat legroom. It also means more cargo space, with 1,028L behind the rear seats and a massive 2,166L with the rear seats folded. Non-hybrid versions let you lower the rear load floor, helpful when the seats are upright to help fit taller items.
The CR-V's new cabin looks a lot like the new HR-V that launched earlier this year as well as the latest Civic. It is a much more upscale look than the previous CR-V, with nicer materials and touches like the honeycomb-mesh dash insert. A 7.0-inch touchscreen is standard and offers Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A 9.0-inch version on higher trims makes those features wireless and gives buyers wireless charging.
New driver assistance tech includes Honda Sensing as standard with a new wider angle camera and radar sensors. Honda says these improve collision prevention performance by being better able to recognize objects like pedestrians. Blind spot warning is standard with Traffic Jam Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist.
The standard engine is a revised version of Honda's 1.5L turbo four-cylinder making 190 hp and 179 lb-ft. AWD is available and all versions get a continuously variable transmission (CVT). New and standard on Touring models only is a 2.0L four-cylinder hybrid system that makes 204 hp and 247 lb-ft. It's the first time Honda has offered a hybrid CR-V in Canada and is an all-new generation of the automaker's hybrid powertrain.
The 1.5L versions of the 2023 Honda CR-V will go on sale this summer, with hybrid models set to follow later this year. Expect pricing shortly before each one arrives at dealers.
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