With 9M CR-Vs sold globally, Honda debuts its CR-V Hybrid

The Honda CR-V has an incredible record of global sales. More than 9 million CR-Vs have been sold worldwide in 150 countries since ’95. In the USA, a total of 384,168 CR-Vs were sold in 2019 alone (wheelsjoint.com). In the SUV market, it ranks second only to the Toyota RAV4.

Launched in Japan in 1995, the CR-V became one of the pioneer models of what has become the highly popular Compact SUV segment. It quickly established itself as a favorite with customers looking for a sturdy, reliable vehicle with low maintenance costs.

The core of the vehicle’s popularity is its combination of efficiency, functionality, simple style, safety and legendary Honda quality. The average estimate for repair bills for the first and second years is $0! The average maintenance cost for the first year of driving is $190.

Depreciation is minimal as well, accounting for only 10.582% its first year and 8.88% its second year.

The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid crossover retains the same basic design and features as its 2020 predecessor. Few changes have been implemented, as 2020 was the year when the CR-V received its 4th Generation makeover and the hybrid version debuted. The 2021 hybrid uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder Atkinson Cycle engine mated with 2 electric motors and a small 1.4kWh battery. Together, they generate 212hp and 232 lb-ft of torque, and provide what is considered the best engine performance in its segment.

With a 0 to 60 sprint of 7.5 seconds, it is not what any reviewer would call a fast car. But what its drivers like is its linear power delivery; it has no gears to shift, making the drive incredibly smooth. And the vehicle’s torque output of 232 lb-ft with its gas engine and two electric motors working bests the Ford Escape Hybrid and the Toyota RAV 4 Hybrid, its two closest competitors. Rather than a super fast family hauler, it’s a comfy city cruiser which gets you where you want to go, smoothly, safely and inexpensively.

Fuel Economy is excellent. The EPA estimates the 2021 CR-V will provide you with 40mpg city, 35mpg highway and 38 combined. The hybrid’s total range is 440 miles.

There are 4 CR-V trims: Hybrid LX (MSRP: $27,850); Hybrid EX (MSRP: $30,360); Hybrid EX-L (MSRP: $32,850); and Hybrid Touring (MSRP: $36,050).

Hybrid LX features include: Real Time AWD; Honda Sensing; an Easy Fold-Down 60/40 Split Rear Seatback; a Power Flow Monitor; ECON, Sport and EV Drive Modes; a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera; LED Headlights with Auto-On/Off; Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock; Auto High-Beam Headlights; an Automatic Climate Control System; Push Button Start; a Retractable Cargo Area Cover; a 160-Watt Audio System with 4 Speakers; Bluetooth HandsFreeLink; USB Audio Interface; Pandora Compatibility; Remote Entry System; Idle-Stop.

Hybrid EX includes all Hybrid LX features, plus: Blind Spot Information (BSI) System with Cross Traffic Monitor; Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control System; Apple CarPlay Integration; Android Auto Integration; Heated Front Seats; a 12-Way Power-Adjustable Driver’s Seat; One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature; 7-Inch Display Audio Touch-Screen; 180-Watt Audio System with 6 Speakers; SiriusXM® Radio; HD Radio; SMS Text Message Function; Rear Privacy Glass; HondaLink; Heated Power Side Mirrors Including Integrated Indicators; Auto High-Beam Headlights; LED Fog Lights; a Security System.

Hybrid EX-L includes all Hybrid LX and EX features, plus: a Leather-Trimmed Interior; a Power Tailgate; a Heated Steering Wheel; Automatic-Dimming Rearview Mirror; a Two-Position Memory Driver’s Seat; a Front Passenger's Seat with 4-Way Power Adjustment; a 180-Watt Audio System with 8 Speakers; Ambient Lighting; HomeLink Remote System.

Hybrid Touring includes all Hybrid LX, EX and EX-L features, plus: a Hands-Free Access Power Tailgate; a Wireless Phone Charger; 19-Inch Alloy Wheels; Parking Sensors; Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System; Turn-By-Turn Directions; Roof Rails; 330-Watt Premium Audio System with 9 Speakers; Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers.

The CR-V offers one of the largest cargo bays in its segment, with 39.2ft3 of cargo space. Car & Driver reviewers managed to fit 10 carry-on sized suitcases behind the rear seat. With seats folded down, the Honda CR-V Hybrid offers best-in-class luggage space.

In 2020, the CR-V earned a 5-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), and it was named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), The Honda also comes standard with a suite of driver assistance technology which includes: standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking; standard lane-keeping assist and lane-departure warning; standard adaptive cruise control.