Review: Honda CRV Hybrid AWD

The sixth-generation Honda CR-V Hybrid is a significant transformation from the model that preceded it. Until now, the CR-V has followed a disciplined, evolutionary approach since its first-generation debut in 1995. But this—this is a giant leap, the start of something new—a neo era, the caterpillar turning into a butterfly.

In the UK, it’s currently available only as a petrol-hybrid, with AWD as standard. Prices start at £45K and go up to £49K across three trim levels, the latter being the Plugin-Hybrid model.

The Exterior

Clean-cut, debonair, smart, and well-proportioned—the Honda CR-V Hybrid looks like something you’d want to own, even at a standstill. The design language is clean and consistent, without the design quirks or oddities that lightly peppered previous generations.

Honda has upped its game in terms of design language It is clearly a CR-V, but not as we know it. It’s modern, classy, sleek, and contemporary—yet restrained enough to stand the test of time, even five years from now.

The Interior

The interior design mirrors the exterior’s mature evolution but leans toward minimalism. It retains physical dials for the heating controls, catering to those who still appreciate the tactile experience. Honda has opted for a fully digital driver’s instrument cluster and a sensibly sized infotainment screen, perched atop the dashboard for optimal usability.

Interior build quality has seen a notable improvement. Like its rivals, it combines soft-touch materials, strategically placed hard plastics, and leather-lined elements. The seats are generally comfortable, though I would prefer additional cushioning for enhanced comfort on longer journeys.

As for space—there’s plenty. I won’t get caught up in numbers, but if it’s spacious enough for a six-footer, it’s spacious enough for most. For reference, the average height for men and women in the UK is around 170 cm and 162cm respectively.

What about boot space? The rear seats fold almost completely flat, making it easy to fit IKEA furniture without any hassle. OK, it 617-Litres and 1,710-litres respectively.

Practical touches, such as bag hooks, come in handy, and a powered tailgate comes as standard.

Infotainment System

The graphic interface looks somewhat dated and lacks the sleekness of Honda’s EV range. It prioritizes functionality over elegant minimalism—which, ironically, is a strength. The system is simple to use and easy to navigate, thanks to a straightforward yet effective menu layout.

It does, however, offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and the built-in Garmin Sat Nav works just as well as any rival system.

The Drive

I don’t expect an SUV to drive like a two-seater sports car, and thankfully, the CR-V doesn’t try to. It handles steers well enough—leaning slightly in corners yet remaining rock-steady on motorway journeys. It’s competent and safe and slightly engaging if the need arises.

The CR-V Hybrid is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 184 bhp and 335 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT transmission. CVTs are belt-driven and emit a characteristic monotone drone at full RPM, which can sound unnatural at first.

However, in this case, the CVT’s noise is well suppressed, and the usual droning is largely absent—even when flooring the throttle for an overtake. In everyday driving, you’ll hardly notice it.

As for the hybrid system, the e:CR-V Hybrid features an electric motor paired with a small 1.06 kWh battery, marketed as a self-charging hybrid. This isn’t a full fat Plugin Hybrid so don’t expect a 50-mile electric range—think of the hybrid system as an “electric turbo boost.”

You get a brief EV-only range of about 1–2 miles, which may seem inadequate, but since the battery is constantly recharging, you never run out of electric power. The system seamlessly switches between ICE and EV mode without you even noticing. The electric drive often activates in car parks or slow-moving traffic and can operate at speeds of up to 70 mph. However, you’ll hardly notice when it engages, as the transition from EV mode to petrol is incredibly smooth.

In terms of fuel economy, the CR-V Hybrid delivers around 45 mpg on short urban journeys, where frequent stop-start traffic allows the hybrid system to work at its best. On long motorway runs, it returns no more than 38 mpg—possibly 40 mpg if you drive sensibly. Not bad for such a large AWD-equipped vehicle. That said, the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid can achieve 50 mpg consistently on short and long runs.

Then there are the drive modes: Eco, Snow, and Sport (or “Full Send” as I like to call it). Eco mode delivers a subdued power output, while Sport mode sharpens responsiveness—though it may cost you about 2 mpg on motorway drives. Sport mode certainly enhances drivability and throttle resposne, making the CR-V feel more eager and engaging.

The Verdict

The CR-V is a significant step up from the previous generation. It delivers a well-rounded experienc. While it may lack the flashy appeal of some European rivals, it triumphs where it matters: perceived experience, consistent quality, engineering and execution.

It looks classy and expensive, with dimensions close to a VW Touareg, and its interior quality isn’t far behind. But its true competitor is the Toyota RAV4—arguably more efficient on paper but less impressive in execution.

Given the choice, on its own merit, I’d pick the Honda CR-V.