CR-V is the best-selling Honda’s vehicle. However, with 380k sales last year, the compact crossover couldn’t cope with Nissan Rogue and Toyota Rav4. Changes we expect on the 2021 Honda CR-V will push this model’s charts even higher. The facelift of the new crossover will definitely lure more buyers. The company announced cosmetic changes, and one of the additions could be the all-new hybrid drivetrain.
The CR-V is currently in the fifth generation. The crossover is on the market since 1995. The latest update happened when the vehicle started new series in 2016. The mid-cycle facelift will refresh the interest in the 2021 Honda CR-V. The Japanese company is serious about hybrid models, since the larger Honda Pilot will also get a PHEV version.
The main competition for the CR-V comes from other Japanese carmakers. The compact crossover class achieves the best-selling results, and leaders in this tier are Nissan Rogue and Toyota Rav4 with 400k sales annually. Honda CR-V keeps the pace and the facelift of Chevrolet Equinox made this model attractive again. A slowdown of Ford Escape sales is caused by announcements of the new generation with hybrid engine. Jeep Compass had doubled the figures if we compare the last two complete seasons.
Engines
Under the hood of the 2021 Honda CR-V will remain the same 2.4-liter engine. The four-cylinder unit is the base option and it delivers 185 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. The CVT is standard gearbox and it also offers Sport mode. Towing capacity of the compact crossover is 1,500 pounds.
The engine returns 26/32 mpg with FWD and AWD consumes more fuel. If you want more of everything, then the 1.5-liter turbo-four is the right choice. It consumes regular gasoline and uses the same transmission. However, the results are higher – fuel economy jumps to 28/34 mpg and the outputs are 190 hp and 185 lb-ft. These are only a few reasons why we would recommend a purchase of turbo model rather than the 2.0.
European drivers have other options. The petrol engine is a 2.0-l inline-four. It is capable to burst 150 hp and 140 lb-ft. On the other hand, much more interesting is a diesel unit. A 1.6-l turbo-four can produce 160 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This is the best option if you want to tow slightly more cargo.
2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid
This is going to be the major update for the 2021 Honda CR-V. The Euro-spec crossover already received the ‘electric treatment’. The vehicle will get a familiar hybrid system – the same one Honda Accord is using. It is a combination of a 2.0-liter four-pot petrol unit and electric battery. The output of this setup will be 215 hp and the crossover can count on increased fuel economy. Early estimations say 40 mpg combined, which is on par with the class-leading Rav4 mileage.
2021 Honda CR-V Redesign
The new 2021 Honda CR-V will also get cosmetic updates to draw more attention. The overall shapes and dimensions are going to be the same. However, details will make it different than before. Starting from the front fascia and tail, all the way to the cabin, minor updates are making enthusiasts eager to see the new CR-V. Of course, there is a hybrid drivetrain as well.
Starting up front, the vehicle is coming with reshaped headlights and slightly moved fog lights. Bumper is a bit smaller than before, which boosts the aggressiveness of the CR-V. Taillights and the rear bumper will refresh the styling. The Japanese company brings new ideas and we could see other interesting solutions on its bigger SUVs, Pilot and Passport.
2021 Honda CR-V Interior
Inside the cabin we will find different equipment, depending on trim levels. The LX is an entry-level model, while the EX, besides extra features, is offering a turbo engine. We still don’t know the future of the EX-L model, but there will be one version of the CUV between EX and top of the class Touring version. Also, the new hybrid engine will shake things up. Don’t expect it at the base LX model.
Inside the 2021 Honda CR-V will be the latest version of the infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. We’ll see how far it will evolve in next two years. Standard equipment will be automatic multi-zone climate, Bluetooth with hands-free commands, and power windows. Honda Sensing safety system is available through optional packages or at higher trim levels.
Honda Link infotainment upgrades the basic version. The company also introduced the Walk Away Auto Lock feature, which received excellent critics. Power sunroof, power front seats with heating, and blind spot monitor are equipment for the EX version. Top model, CR-V Touring, will add power liftgate, navigation, premium audio system, and the leather upholstery.
Prices
The redesign will increase the price of the 2021 Honda CR-V. The base version will be around $25,000. The turbo engine will add around $3,000 and Touring package won’t start under $34k. The base price for the hybrid will probably be around $30,000.
