The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Gets Things Done With More Refinement

The Honda CR-V has always been a family favorite. The all-new 6th generation is ready to take the brood on their next adventure. The big news? There’s a new hybrid powertrain with more powerful electric motors that are mounted side-by-side now. Available in front or all-wheel drive, it’s EPA rated as high as 40 MPG average. Tom Voelk checks out the AWD Sport Touring model to see if it can get that kind of efficiency.
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2023 Honda CRV Hybrid Review, 2023 Honda CRV Hybrid price, 2023 Honda CRV Hybrid gas mileage, 2023 Honda CRV Hybrid efficiency, 2023 Honda CRV Hybrid interior, 2023 Honda CRV space, 2023 Honda CRV roominess, Tom Voelk, Tom Volk, Tom Volk car reviews,
About Tom: Tom Voelk is an award-winning automotive contributor to The New York Times. His podcast was the first to win an Emmy Award (and he's won for photography, editing, producing and reporting). But really, all you need to know is in the videos.
00:00 INTRO
00:40 Price
1:07 Powertrain
2:57 Performance
4:10 Off Roading
4:49 One Pedal Driving?
5:52 Vehicle Dynamics
6:36 Efficiency
7:10 Interior
8:35 Back Seat
9:28 Design
9:57 Cargo
10:56 Red Light Green Light
12:06 Summary
13:19 Epilogue
13:50 Martin!
14:14 Before I go, let’s talk sound

[@pdbordelon]

I just bought, 2 days ago, the 2024 Honda CRV Hybrid Sport. Wow what a car. It's got a magic carpet feel and not for someone who wants a "performance road feel" car. Still, there is a feel to this car that has to be experienced to believe and understand.

[@thonDG]

could you tell me whats the diffence between 2023 and 2024 crv hybrid please

[@DanielGonzalez-ku2tj]

Agreed , I got mine this week and I love it mate ! Great car for the size and value

[@LanceRomanceF4E]

First time Honda buyer completely happy with my 2023 CR-V Hybrid Sport. Great looking SUV inside and out, comfortable ride, quiet and sporty (enough). Paid MSRP and waited three weeks for delivery. Getting 34.6 MPG with commuter driving. Had just one flat in 30+ yrs driving, so no concerns with no spare unless in a very remote area. The foam quick fix works for most flats- no worries. Only neg is no built in garage door opener or ventilated seats. Living in the South, I’d trade my heated seats and steering wheel for that option every time. BL: This is the best car I’ve ever had. Sorry Porsche. sorry Bimmer. Sorry Ford.

[@andyhawkins7988]

I know exactly what you mean by that. Although the German cars were great, the value of a Honda is just far better.

[@paulholterhaus7084]

How do You get into the garage..!!!!!!....?????????...............Paul

[@LanceRomanceF4E]

garage door opener is attached to passenger visor…

[@evcoo04]

Love your videos Tom. Something so soothing yet informational about your reviews.

[@carlosux]

im constantly impressed by your reviews. no wasted words / frames / time. jeez how do you storyboard for the little stuff.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Storyboard? I'm not that organized. I just try to cover what people might want to know.

[@MarioDallaRiva]

My son and his young family rented a CR-V Hybrid in Palm Springs recently. He was shocked at how little fuel it consumed in their time there 👍🏼 Great vehicle when you have young kids.

[@gregkramer5588]

Thanks Tom and Martin! An Excellent review once again!

[@Mojo522]

Congratulations Martin! I wish you and your family all the happiness, health, and longevity you could wish for. Thank you once again. You're appreciated.

[@DctorSkillz1]

I’m pretty sure this is Tom, not Martin.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

He reads the comments so he'll get the message. The wedding was lovely. And yes, he is appreciated.

[@pizzaearthpancakesandother2549]

@@DrivenCarReviews You should double his pay

[@bassandtrebleclef]

Awesome video! Thanks for covering the details.

[@jameswohlsen6754]

Tom, been watching your videos for a couple of years now. I appreciate the video and sound quality and also the common sense commentary. Too many auto You Tubers seem to think that emphasizing the vehicles performance or off-road capabilities is all people want to hear about. While 0 to 60 times and wilderness chops may be important to some, I’m more interested in the drivability and comfort with day-to-day use. I also appreciate your advocacy of hybrid and EV models. I have a BMW 530e sitting at the dock in Germany waiting to be shipped (going on 4 weeks now … grrrrr). Keep up the good work!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Enjoy that BMW! I'm just doing the reviews I think people will get value out of.

[@arevee9429]

Fantastic reviews. Well-spoken, without dozens of filler words like "you guys", no talk of felt-lined glove boxes or door thunks, and one of the few reviewers who actually show the utility of a utility vehicle by folding down the seats and showing us the unfilled backside - with decent lighting. Mr. Voelke, consider giving some of the other KZbin reviewers some elocution lessons - and some schooling in a few other key areas as well.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I have been known to talk up a nicely lined glove box. Just sayin'....

[@ApoJake13]

Thank you for another great video!

[@texasjoe557]

I bought the touring and absolutely love it. I am 6’ 1” and fit comfortably. a few things I have noticed that need attention. The TSR needs an update. It misses traffic signs and often gets them wrong. rear camera has issues at night with glare due to other ambient light sources. I did price Hyundai and Kia at the time of purchase and they wanted hefty market adjustment premiums making the CRV less. money. I am exceeding the mpg ratings for highway and city but I do the speed limit and no jack rabbit starts. I use B mode in town and D on the highway- setting on economy. I’m getting 43 city and 38 highway- No a/c on. With ac and you lose 2 mpg, putting it in line with the stated fuel efficiency. Just wanted to share. you do a superlative job on your videos. Nice work. Congratulations to your cameraman. We need more Dad’s like him. Happy Motoring from Central Texas!

[@jeanhernandezrodriguez4838]

THE SPORT TOURING AWD HAS LESS MPG THAN THE SPORT WITH FWD -- THE 43/38 IS FOR THE FWD SPORT CRV

[@iamsebastianmitchell]

Beautiful review.... thank you ⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

👏👏👏... Love the show .....Hope everyone has a beautiful day...

[@d.j.j.g]

Consistently classy. Thank you!

[@citibear57]

I prefer the styling of the Accord, but the versatility of the CR-Vs cargo space makes it very tempting. Tom, I have commented on your excellent quality videos in the past, but I want to add that you choose wonderful locations for filming. I love seeing those beautiful, upscale Seattle neighborhoods with gorgeous homes and lush landscaping. I know that you are proud of your (hard) work, and rightly so. Thank you 👍

[@tonyboone305]

I bought a 2023 CR-V Sport Hybrid a couple of weeks ago. Really am enjoying it. Getting 36.4 mpg.

[@stachowi]

Do you drive in regular Drive or in B mode?

[@yvescrepeau5955]

Hi Martin I bought mine last week scaled down froma full size SUV to this love it so far

[@leeholden8658]

I own a Mk2 CR-V as a first car. In 14 months I’m coming up to 11,000 miles covered so far and we love it. When we bought it we was only thinking of owning it 2-4 years depending how much we pump into it. At the start it needed a bit spending on it,but since we covered the few replacement parts (discs,pads and a rear caliper,front strut,o2 sensor and a replacement CAT) we’ve only paid out for a set of all season tyres (£500) and rubber bushes etc (£170) for a 20 year old car with 124,000 miles on the clock I think it still go a lot of miles left it in. Previous owner also removed the rear prop shaft to make it just a FWD vehicle which people have said gives a little more fuel economy and we only use E5 petrol. I believe the mk2 was very popular in the USA

[@StacieS225]

I pick up my Sport Touring in Meteorite Gray Metallic tomorrow. I have waited almost 3 months since putting a deposit down on it, but worth it. Coming from a 19 MPG Grand Cherokee Trailhawk with the 5.7L Hemi that takes mid-grade gas, this is going to be like night and day for me.

[@davidcarroll8735]

6:20 Tom, great call out that quietness of the cabin is very specific to this top of the line model and it’s not just extra sound panels! When I get around to a new vehicle, this quietness will be higher priority after the drone of my 2019 Forester Touring on the highways. Granted this is only at excessive speeds, but spending quite a bit of time in rural PA where this is common. I particularly recall your review of the GV80 which was like a hushed library!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

This is certainly not as quiet as the Genesis, but for a mainstream product it's pretty good. Also good considering for years Honda was known for a lot of road noise.

[@courageous78]

Great video!

[@limpunsing2229]

Splendid video review

[@nsteblay]

I bought the sport touring a few weeks back and am averaging over 37 MPG. It all depends on the average MPH and weather conditions for a given trip. The car is geared for Urban/Suburban commuting. I'm not sure I could even get it to average 32 MPG for a trip without getting a ticket!

[@dannelleabajar4703]

Reall love the industrial design look of the interiors.

[@vicenteferrazpacheconeto6503]

You always bring us excellent car reviews, congrats for this one too. CR-V upgrades were welcome, also for being hybrid. I'd like to compare CR-V x Forester 2025. Hope soon you'll be able to do that. Thanks a lot!

[@SM-ju7rj]

I just bought the 2023 Crv touring in black and I love it! Super smooth drive and excellent on gas. I traded in my gas guzzler Grand Cherokee

[@MiCoopRS]

I LOVE Seattle.... was there one time for 3 weeks when in my YOOT..... 18 Auto's later now, this I believe is my LAST one... Yes, I purchased a 2023 CR-V Hybrid here in Canada where they are made. We DO HAVE a rear heated seat.... steering wheel is amazing in these COLD morning here where I live in Calgary, Alberta...and so are the HEATED seats. My last two TRUCKS were the 2019 and 2021 Honda Ridgelines, both Black Editions, I traded up to the 2021 when they..."Butched Up" made it look TOUGHER... with dual exhaust pipes that both smoke out and the more aggressive front end..and another PLUS were that the back doors opened WIDE and that the locking Tailgate could be controlled by the Keyfob.... then was invited to come look at the NEWEST TOY... the sales guys know a sucker.... Hey... I had a rough YEAR so... treated myself once again... Picked up the HYBRID on Christmas EVE... URBAN GREY PEARL.... bought RIMS and SNOW TIRES, needed here, and I do not swap ONLY the rubber as that wreaks the beads... YOUR VIDEO is amazing... ALL the BEST was given in the INFO you shared and I love this one so much I am going to link to my cousins in ONTARIO... where these are MADE to let them know HOW HAPPY.... so far I am with this UNIT.... CR-V COMFORTABLY-RIDICULOUS-VEHICLE... or... RC-V really... Great Vid. I wish I could donate to help your CHAN... but on AUG13th my wife flew the coup...after 25 years of blissful living... How Crazy is that...

[@arleendejesus9855]

I love my car! Its the best CRV yet in my opinion. Its great on fuel. I usually gas up at half a tank and it takes my car about a week to get there (LITERALLY). I spend no more than 30 each week. The stereo is epic! Much needed boise system. Love the base. Sport mode is ridiculous. The turbo in it is definitely noticeable, and this suv can feel like a civic real quick! Its also the best stylish interior from their past suv lineup. Its finally less cramp & the body seems widened on the inside. Plus, it has a lot of features just at the sport and hybrid trim. I imagine the touring trim is just even better. & my favorite is just overall how smooth the ride is. No longer bumpy, or even noisey. This car just floats on through😂. (& I like the hybrid sound too btw) Love it ❤ With that said, my only cons are the usb port for carplay. Shldve been usbc. They switched it around & made it the fast charger instead? The trunk is only automatic on the touring. & the rearviews lack any form of lane assistance. My belief its all in the touring trim. The vehicle is pricey, but I lease so I dont care and I really am shocked by this crv. Coming from a person whose owned many of them. Definitely a good buy regardless.

[@southsidetom]

So only 32MPG in suburbia driving. Right now in same scenario with a 3cyl turbo 2020 Ford Escape FWD getting 29.3MPG.

[@r.c.drummrboy2899]

In Canada, rear seats are heated in the only available hybrid trim. I’m getting 39 mpg so far ( imperial gallons ) That’s about 33 mpg in US gallons.

[@davidanderson8469]

That's what Car and Driver and Edmunds got.

[@pbentsonable]

My best friend has one and had nothing but problems with it so far.

[@andrewsmactips]

Looks good - apart from the exhaust tips ON THE FRONT BUMPER.

[@jp93309]

We’re a CR-V family with a 2010 and 2015 in our driveway. We also owned a 1999 first-gen with the load floor/picnic table! That being said, the Kia Sportage hybrid is pretty high on our shopping list this time.

[@judasblewit]

Id stick with Honda.

[@myytchannel6632]

You will greatly regret buying a Kia Sportage Hybrid. It will not fare well on longterm update.

[@disco.lemonade]

Oh wow, no! Lease it, don't buy. RAV4s and CRVs are literally both KINGS of the segment and have been since the 90s. Sportage ugh, it's a KIA. If you wanna keep it for 2 years, I'd say go for it. But I mean, it's a Honda vs a Kia.

[@alexanderpuga3044]

Unfortunately, the Kia Hybrid Sportage doesn't have adaptive cruise control

[@jaxson4950]

Best car review! Watching since New York Times car review

[@donpaulweatherpluspaul2670]

Extremely pleasant and detailed review, Tom. Of course, I'm biased since I have the precise CRV Sport Touring vehicle, leased about 3 weeks ago. I love it and the refinement you spoke of. I came out of 7 consecutive leased high-end Accords, including my most recent 2020 Accord Touring edition with its now-vanished great powertrain. (The new Accord is too long for my garage...hence the switch). The off-the-line torque you mentioned is spot on, so while this CRV is slowER than my Accords, it's not slow. Besides, it's essentially the same powertrain as in the 2023 Accord hybrid, excepting that I'm now in an AWD vehicle. This CRV SHOULD have included both the ventilated seats and the handy HUD display the Accord Touring had, especially at this price point. Other than that, however, the cornering is surprisingly very good with little body roll. I'm sure the new Accord Touring is also quieter than previous Accords, but the Sport Touring CRV is the quietest Honda I've had, and does a better job with road noise on coarse pavement than my 2020 Accord did. The Bose sound system is the best Honda's ever offered, also only available in the Sport Touring edition. Much better than the 450w system in my previous Accord. For my stiff knees, the just-right seat height in the CRV is, well, just right. So much easier than the low seats in the Accord for getting in and getting out. Some anecdotal scuttlebutt on Kias and Hyundais from my Honda dealer, which owns dealerships of those brands just down the road. My service manager told me a few months ago there have been an unusual number of major engine problems with some Kias and Hyundais. The fella who picks up and drops off service customers for all the dealerships on this road verified this, and there are lengthy parts delays to get the fixes on those flawed vehicles completed. The dealership owner has not only gotten those stricken customers rental cars, but is picking up their monthly car payments until their vehicles are returned to service. (This same dealer NEVER does markups on new cars at any of his many dealerships in Western New York. He gets, I would think, lots more return customers with ethical behavior.) For that reason, the supposed superior value in the Hyundai and Kia SUV competitors is mitigated in my mind by possible reliability problems, even with their superior warranty coverage. I'll happily stay with Honda. My blue CRV has been a head turner in the supermarket parking lot, "conservative" styling and all. It's an absolute beauty!

[@donpaulweatherpluspaul2670]

PS: In my first tankful, in mixed driving which was more highway than urban, I averaged 34-35 mpg. Since my fillup last week, I'm running at 39.6 mpg in mixed driving. I'm trying not to be lead-footed, to see how well I can do on this tank. The power flow display is sometimes mesmerizing. I know some people complain about the pop-up displays, but I like 'em. They're at near eye-level, and I find them less distracting than the in-dash display I test in a Subaru.

[@donpaulweatherpluspaul2670]

Now that it's mid-October and I've had the CRV 6 months, I've been running about 37 mpg in mixed driving, a little below EPA numbers on straight highway driving at 28-30, but beating EPA numbers on urban cycle at 42-44 mpg. Waiting to see how the AWD does in Buffalo snow, if we get much this year.

[@toronado455]

I didn't know about all that extra sound insulation in the Sport Touring. I wonder if any of the gas-only models come with this extra insulation, or if it's only on the Sport Touring.

[@tonywong9105]

Great Review as always, Tom! As for this CRV, I like almost everything about it, but the lack of top view/360 degrees camera is a deal breaker for me. Again I will be sticking with my Kia Sorento PHEV AWD Prestige for a while.

[@dougd9133]

Great review.. thank you.. considering to choose between the CRV or the RAV4 hybrid.. the end is funny.. 😊🎉

[@2Kriss2Kross]

As much as people love to bash modern Honda, I see plenty new generation Accords and CRV’s daily as well as plenty of Civics. Owning a ‘22 Sport Touring myself, they’re not flashy or have all the gizmos but there’s a certain solidity and elevated dynamic feel when compared to prior generations and their competition.

[@qp7691]

56k for this at dealerships in Canada with tax. Outrageous pricing!

[@michaelm2937]

Thanks!

[@georgeg.7124]

Good review of the Honda CR-V.

[@barbaralehmann836]

Can the backup noise in the 2023 Honda Sport hybrid CRV be turned off?

[@shamus12]

Cool vid under the car Tom!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Seemed like the best way to show it.

[@williamdrijver4141]

Looks much better than the predecessor. In the EU we will get a plugin version with a theoretical electric range of 50 miles.

[@STopgyal]

Bought the CR-V EXL trim the second highest. Planned on buying EV, tested Tesla, felt like being in a box with oversized IPAD and stiff seating. Test drove Toyota Highlander hybrid and Kia Sorento but markup and limited choice of color forced me out. Toyota dealer wanted $6500 markup and Kia almost the same made no sense to me. The only option of choice in the budget was 2023 CR-V. Had to haggle on the price even though they did not charge any markup. Am I happy with the car, not really as the cabin noise was high especially on highway and even worse on non smooth road. Had to order the car with 3 weeks waiting period but, luckily I got it in one week and drove to Toronto. By the way it never gave me 32 mpg on highway as stated. The most we got was 28. I don't know how I should drive to get 32 mpg. Thank you Tom.

[@Braceman]

Nice review on this CRV. I think Honda did a great job with it and really good reviews from everyone. If you live in Canada I would move since everything is high there. Doesn't really matter what car you buy. People who like Kia and Hyundai keep in mind there having issues with fires with there engines. No wonder they offer a long warranty. Do your research people first, but honda still a good value.

[@GH-we6qz]

Excellent presentation!! I was hoping you could explain why the model does not have fog lights? Thanks in advance!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Off the top of my head, I can't. There's always the aftermarket.

[@horsepowerandtalk1033]

Where does all the TP go each week?

[@Wised1000]

As usual, a great review. We are utterly satisfied with our sport model. Note on B mode, the paddles have nothing to do with the (non existent) transmission they simply select how much regen you get. On B mode the level of regen will not automatically return to "normal". Instead, it will remain at the level selected. If you use the paddles in drive mode, the level of regen selected is only temporary. Thus, if you want to drive in (almost) one pedal, you must select B mode and then use the paddles to select the strogest regen level. As you pointed out, even when so selected, it does not come to a full stop. You still need to use the brake at the end. Regarding noise, even without the extra padding on the touring model, the hybrid is still the quietest CRV ever. The earlier models were actually very noisy. I agree with your review, there are no earth shattering changes from the previous model. In usual Honda fashion its an evolutionary transformation of what was a great vehicle made even better in almost all respects. The reason other manufacturers offer even more stuff is simple, they don't make an RDX. Honda is very cognizant of leaving a gap in equipment to give the also excellent RDX its market position.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Using the paddles, I was able to get the simulated gear shifts, at least on acceleration. Might have been in Sport mode? And yes, didn't have time to drill down to the full dynamic using B mode. Accord does not have B mode and it always returns to normal after using the recuperation drag. Which is... a drag.

[@Wised1000]

@Driven Car Reviews With Tom Voelk Thus the B mode! Remember any shifts on the "tranny" are fake, since there is no tranny of any type just a clutch to cue in the ICE engine at the appropriate time. The E-CVT moniker that Honda coined is misleading since there is no CVT! Mechanically, it's a serial 2 mode hybrid. Regardless, the big thing is that it's smooth, quiet, and virtually transparent. In sport, it's peppy till about 70 or so. As you, I have found fuel economy is not record-breaking, but mid 30's overall is quite good for a boxy, sizeable AWD crossover. Surprisingly, for what is essentialy and EV (at slow speeds), the brakes are consistent in feel in all situations. Im very satisfied with the powertrain overall. Thank's for reading the comments very few bloggers do! I've been a fan since your NYT days👍

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@Wised1000 My efficiency was off. Here's the thing, Toyota, Hyundai and Kia have the potential to top it if they hit their EPA numbers (which are similar with RAV4 rated 3 MPG higher). That's important if that's the sole criteria for buying a vehicle. But few people buy on that alone. And good point about the brake feel. I'm now at a point where I only mention it if it's particularly off. And yes, I read the comments as much as possible the first few days, after that's it's pretty tough to respond with over 300 reviews on YT.

[@nattk.7612]

1:18 is that a felt lining??

[@Brayant25]

I bought the sportage hybrid minus $400 MSRP for the Sx prestige. I can't be more happier. It has everything the CrV lacks and I love the design because it stands out from the crowded sea of cross overs. Ventilated seats, Panoramic sunroof, 360 degree camera, smart park, 12.3 inches of infotainment and digital instrument cluster display and its all wrapped around in a curved display not tacked on like an iPad 😀. 8.3inches ground clearance, 6 speed auto transmission and spare tire for a peace of mind when venturing out the wilderness. And it is rated 38mpg combined. I'm currently averaging the EPA ratings. There's so much more to the sportage and it still undercuts the Crv by $2000.

[@TinLeadHammer]

Do you venture out in the wilderness often? What sort of wilderness is it?

[@rogersanchez9635]

I’ve checked one out in person and one thing he forgot to mention is the rear seats recline, I thought that was nice

[@drews.1316]

"PRINDL" shifter! I understood that reference! Suit life of Zach and Cody! wow I am old! 😂

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I've never seen that show. What's the reference?

[@RegCoulter]

You do a great and fairly accurate review, but, please, get rid of the background music. It really is not needed.

[@gilbs72]

Nice that Honda placed tailpipes in front as well. 😁

[@nfrancisj2122]

Where are you driving ? those are some beautiful houses.

[@Nitrobucket]

Good review. At highest trim, the real out the door price is a little high for what you get. We should hold all automakers at a higher standard once above $40k. The real world numbers are not showing 40mpgs. For me personally, any new hybrid had better give me a minimum of 38mpgs to be considered

[@chrisjmiller6]

Super job as always. I'd love to go back to Honda, but reliability is an issue. We have owned nine Honda in total, but switched to Toyota in 2021.

[@user-so7bz9wy9d]

‌It seems to me you are a wonderful Father, thanks for your good review Sir.

[@jsfbay1]

Thanks for another high quality review Tom. A number of auto journalists have said, sometimes indirectly, that the adaptive cruise control and automatic forward braking controls are a bit twitchy (or to put it more nicely, very aggressive.) How would you say this new version of safety systems work?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I did not find this to be true. It all operated quite normally for me.

[@jsfbay1]

@@DrivenCarReviews Thanks Tom.

[@kevingeorge4091]

Love those under belly shots. Most car journalist just rant without showing the underside

[@WScott-gd2mj]

The smooth, Volvo-esque lines are marred by those HIDEOUS silver vent frames on the bottom front. Jeez...they look like something somebody grabbed from the surplus parts bin and glued onto the bumper..

[@Noidea242]

It’s built in Ontario Canada as well

[@jonathanparham]

Yup. Soundie here. Your videos are noticeably quieter than others

[@McGrogansSchool]

Hyundai Sante Fe/Kia Sorrento vibes. Looks handsome.

[@parrou3]

Hi, please advise Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs HONDA CRV Hybrid

[@kimtaylor1119]

Not available in Canada

[@waterbucky]

Waiting patiently in Vermont for more of these to show up! I have a 2019 Pilot and despite its great qualities, gas mileage is a drag. Now that the Gen 6 CR-V is roomier (and the Hybrid adds efficiency), we hope to trade up. Honda calls me monthly to entice big $ for a trade-up to a 2023 Pilot, but this "deal" disappears when trying to switch to a CR-V. Frustrating!

[@tedantares2751]

Nice neighborhood! What part of Seattle area is it?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Not really in Seattle. More Bellevue.

[@michaelschaefer3124]

Not achieving the EPA mileage rating seems to be a common complaint of the CRV hybrid. I would like to see a comparison between the turbo and the hybrid engines to see if the cost and complexity of the hybrid is worth it

[@denault3985]

Excellent review Tom, just concerned about the gas mileage. Also wondering about driveability, is the CR-V Hybrid or RAV4 smoother and more comfortable?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I suggest reading other reviews to see if others do better with efficiency, that's my experience. From what I remember about RAV, it has a softer suspension so a bit more comfortable but not as engaging to drive. Both hybrid powertrains are well done, but quite different. At the end of the day, you're just gonna have to drive them both and decide which one you like.

[@MrJLee-ri3so]

Have a 2021 Rav 4, car drives like a boat, no road feel, every time a truck passes me or strong wind hits the car on the freeway, car looses stability. Have 2003 Crv, that car is more fun n easier to drive.

[@jeffjo8732]

There's one point here that almost everybody over-simplifies. What they describe technically omits a detail that all hybrids include. That omission is more significant for this system in specific. It doesn't affect functionality, which is why the simplification is used, but it does affect efficiency. At 2:02, Tom says: "Typically when driving, the gas engine runs a generator, which sends electricity through the battery, to the electric drive motor." This path is incorrect. The device that controls the flows of electricity is called the Power Control Unit, or PCU. The generator sends AC electricity to the PCU, not to the battery. The PCU sends a different frequency (tuned to the speed of the wheels) of AC to the drive motor. If the generator does not produce enough power, the PCU adds power by drawing DC electricity from the battery, converting it to AC, and adding the two power streams. But most of the time, the generator is producing too much power (see note). So the PCU splits the generator's output and sends the excess as DC electricity to the battery for charging. The significance is that every change made by the PCU, as well as charging and discharging the battery, includes a loss of power. As Tom described it, there are at least four conversions that do not happen for the power that is used directly. Note: In the following, my data applies to the 2022 Honda hybrids. There were minor tweaks in 2023, so the numbers may have changed The concept is the same. In a typical gas car, the engine averages about 25% to 30% efficiency. The engine in the 2022 hybrid is most efficient (40.6%) at 2000 rpm and 34 HP. In Hybrid Drive, the engine will be producing that 34 HP most of the time. The power that is sent directly to the motor carries this 40.6% efficiency. The power that is deferred by being used to charge the battery, even if there is 25% loss in the extra conversions, is still more than 30% efficient. But not 40%. So the hybrid gains in both paths, but gains more in the direct path since it does not go thru the battery.

[@jeffer1101]

In a vacuum this is a good option, but in reality may be a tough sell. In Canada, it is just over $51,000 (we only get the hybrid in this one top trim). From most of our reviews, it fails to get really good fuel economy numbers (better than regular ICE vehicles, but falls short of Toyota hybrid models). Add in a more complex transmission system with clutches, direct injection and a mechanically driven rear axle and there could be more in terms of maintenance/repair costs over time. Toyota offers the RAV-4 Hybrid in 5 trims from $38-$49,000. So, factoring in more trim options, for less money in a vehicle that is arguably the most reliable car you can buy on the planet and it makes this CR-V a tough sell, at least here.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Good arguments. There are even more factors though. A Toyota could be a hard sell to a Honda loyalist (and vice versa). One or the other may or may not be available in these crazy times we are living through. And let's not forget, the Toyota is not a simple drive train either. And then there's design inside and out. Many people will prefer one or the other. It's a crazy business, and there are a blizzard of variables.

[@fergy13131]

Also good luck getting a Toyota hybrid in Canada it’s a 1-2 year wait minimum. I got my CRV hybrid in one month.

[@Kimmy-lr3wd]

@@fergy13131 As long as you think paying 52K plus tax for a intermediate HEV suv is a luck shot

[@vitkrivan9380]

Just a quick look for you guys at the European market: both the RAV4 and CRV come only in hybrid versions and both of them already come very well equipped(you can basically just add on leather seats and then a couple of not so important features) the RAV4 for example comes with a full digital gauge cluster and a newer and larger center screen as standard. Both the new CRV and the updated RAV4 start at 50,000 USD (tax included). However, toyota now offers deals on their RAV4s and lowered their prices to 41,000 USD, making it quite a bit cheaper! At the end I went with the rav4 mainly because of the promotion and also I liked the drive better(I feel like it uses the hybrid system in a better and more efficient way).

[@disco.lemonade]

Did my guy just called the CR-V a tough sell? That's cute. It's in the top 5 most sold cars in the US right now, as USUAL.

[@MrMortyBaby]

Prndl 😂 I always think of London Tipton

[@johnchen3]

Wish it had vented seats…maybe wait for the mid cycle refresh before retiring my 2008 Highlander

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I don't think that will happen. Honda is pretty conservative.

[@toronado455]

Seems like Honda should have packaged that battery better. It seems like an afterthought the way it takes up all that space in the spare tire compartment while wasting most of it.

[@petegalindez9961]

Another great review, as always Tom! Convinced my parents to get the hybrid and they love it! BTW, I’m in Seattle visiting UW where my son will attend in the fall…any recs on great places to eat? Love local food (seafood and the like), but up for anything!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Agua Verde (Mexican) and Ivar's Salmon House are both on Lake Union near UW. Pro tip- At Ivars, save money by ordering fish and chips at the walk up counter, then take it around back and sit at the tables on the water. My fav Thai place is 2 C Thai in Lake City Way. My good friend owns Delfino's pizza in University Village, it's Chicago deep dish style. Also, Ray's on Shillshole is a Seattle classic. If you have money to spend Sushi Kashiba in Pike Place market is among the best places on the West Coast. Also expensive but overlooks the UW with a spectacular view is another Seattle institution Canlis. Enjoy the visit, you have great weather.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@petegalindez9961 Hope you can get in. Was gifted the omakase dinner a few years ago and still think about it. The Pink Door (Italian) is another Seattle fav that's in the market.

[@petegalindez9961]

@@DrivenCarReviews Looks like my son chose Delfino’s for dinner! Can’t pass up good deep dish! Thanks again!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@petegalindez9961 Enjoy! It's the best deep dish in town.

[@petegalindez9961]

@@DrivenCarReviews Delfinos did not disappoint!

[@ItsAlive111]

1:55 Why is the battery eating so much space?!?! They could had easily fit a spare tire there if they moved the battery to the side or lower. They could have created a lot of extra space too for storage if they skipped outing the battery in the freaking middle

[@samy4288]

G'day Tom, can you get us the new Nissan Patrol review. Australia 🇦🇺 still has the old Gen

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Get me to Australia and I'd be happy to. Not available in the US.

[@samy4288]

@@DrivenCarReviews 😁😁😁

[@shellycalhoun7194]

I have 4000 miles on my touring Great car…mpg is good 37 mpg highway 40 in a small town average speed about 40 miles per hr

[@TranTek]

What gets me is they use same size battery 1kwh as last gen and motor could be bigger the body is much more solid than the last gen, more quiet yes

[@christopherprose3881]

Great review and another near-perfect product from Honda again. Seems like it should have at least another 30-40hp for its weight. It's a handsome design much like the new Civic, and it will age well if not turn heads too often. I'd probably take the Mazda CX-50 over it.

[@jollygreen4662]

Is it a HEV hybrid?

[@vmpgsc]

Does every crossover get bigger at every refresh/redesign? Ugh. Anyway, great job as always, Tom.

[@Nigel8Chelsea]

It speaks volumes that here in the US these are considered “crossovers” but anywhere else in the world they’re very much full sized SUVs

[@TinLeadHammer]

@@Nigel8Chelsea Crossover is not about size, it is about a cross between a car and an old-school body-on-frame SUV.

[@Nigel8Chelsea]

@@TinLeadHammer hmm that sounds a bit vague, and also quite subjective. I’d love to see some formal discourse on that distinction haha. That raises more questions for me to be honest. For example, these new Corolla cross’s are definitely in the crossover category; it’s very clear how they’re related. The whole shape and size of a CR-V is that of an SUV, I don’t see how it can be termed a cross over.

[@seansean681]

Crossovers are car base (unibody) and not truck base (body-on-frame). Crossover has nothing to do with size. The Chevy Traverse, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Nissan Pathfinder are all crossovers with 3 rows of seating that are way larger than the compact CRV.

[@Nigel8Chelsea]

@@seansean681 gotcha! That makes a lot more sense now. Thank you

[@haze1123]

Great review. I love everything Honda did here except for those two chrome nostrils below the front bumper.

[@LCOF]

There’s a plug in in other markets with a 50 mile range.

[@shopwithaaron]

Always the best!!! Thx, can't stand SUVs!

[@MrBritrider]

Why in the heck didn’t Honda include a storage cubby in the battery well with a hinged lid like the Passport has?? Plenty of room.

[@schedvi]

All I’ve ever owned are Hondas. Have been driving my 2007 CRV for 16 trouble-free years. I just got back from test driving a 2024 CRV sport touring hybrid and I have to say, I was underwhelmed. Didn’t seem quieter or smoother than my current ride. I had such high hopes of upgrading. I guess I’ll just keep on driving my 2007 CRV for another decade or so….

[@Furious_Dihan]

I haven't seen Mr. Voelk review any Italian cars. I'm hoping to see a review of an Italian Exotic car 🤌🤌🤌.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Since I'm no longer writing for the New York Times, Ferrari is a little less generous with offers to drive their cars.

[@Braceman]

just lease mind and I could not be happier. Yes, Kia and Hyundai may offer more things to their cars, but they have been having issues with them as well. Engine issues and other problems. I have owed many honda's and you can't beat them for comfort and reliability.

[@DJAYPAZ]

A good review. The CR-V has a lot going for it. Perhaps in a more interesting colour though.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I can tell you for certain that this color does not photograph well.

[@DJAYPAZ]

@@DrivenCarReviews Thank you Tom. I did not know that.

[@baldheadlogic]

I do like this redesign better than the previous generation. Not sure why Honda keeps leaving out options that other companies offer. Maybe they want you to just buy a Passport. Oh well.😊

[@keithjackson4985]

Do these vehicles have to grow in size? I like the compactness of Hondas of yore. I like the ability to slide through tight spaces with accurate steering. I know it's a nice vehicle, but I will miss Hondas svelte dimensions in many of their new designs. This CRV now looks to be near the size of a Jeep Renegade.

[@tomchang88]

Yes they just keep getting bigger each gen. Have always been a Honda guy but now I'm out. Bigger and heavier and not much improvement on MPG. Kinda defeats the whole purpose. I'll just stick to my older Hondas and then jump ship whenever something actually good comes along from another company.

[@MiCoopRS]

@@tomchang88 I had the two Honda Ridgeline's, so GUESS that moving down in SIZE and SIZE of engine too... 3.6L V6 to 2.0 although I did have an AMG GLA-45 with a 2.0l engine with 375 horse power... swapped that for the Ridgeline...Black Edition... WELCOMED the NO MORE stares from the police and HAD TONS of CARGO space with that Hidden 72L trunk under the Bed... what can you say...or I say... I am a SUCKER for NEW TOYS... 🛻

[@magneto8002]

Nearly 60k in Canada with taxes. Just too much for what you get.

[@DannerBanks]

This car is beautiful, so glad small SUVs are looking more rugged these days

[@davidrobertnewman]

Interesting that gen 6 got larger but the cargo specs did not. Gen 5 Touring also has 76 cubic feet of storage (for the ICE version; not sure about the hybrid) and a spare tire. Tradeoffs abound; I get that the EV stuff has to go somewhere, and this generation does have better mileage.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

If it's anything like HR-V, it's all about pedestrian and crash safety. I didn't go on the CR-V event so I wasn't able to talk to engineers about this.

[@davidrobertnewman]

That’s an excellent point. In a world with ever-larger, heavier, and more dangerous bro trucks this cyclist would gladly trade off more pedestrian and biker safety for cargo room - especially given the CR-V’s already generous cargo specs.

[@mumwifeteacher]

The drive train sounds space shuttle complex- owning out of warranty might be a bad idea

[@texasjoe557]

😂😂😂. Honda Brilliance! That droning gets all the people in the costco parking lot out of my way.