The Honda CR-V and its electrified sibling, the CR-V Hybrid, have consistently stood out in the compact class as being some of the best options available. Fully redesigned for 2023, the CR-V and CR-V Hybrid have a comfortable ride, spacious interiors, and easy-to-use tech features.
With the CR-V and CR-V sharing similar platforms, designs, and features, it may be difficult to choose between the two SUVs. In this comparison, we’ll look at the key similarities and differences between the two models to name the better option for most shoppers.
CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid Price
There’s a big difference in pricing between the Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid. The cheapest Honda CR-V is the LX trim which starts at $30,795, while the most expensive trim is the EX-L which costs $35,955.
In comparison, the most affordable Honda CR-V Hybrid is the Sport Hybrid trim which carries a starting price tag of $34,645. The most expensive Honda CR-V Hybrid is the Sport Touring Hybrid which costs $40,795.
When comparing the two CR-V models to one another, there’s a $3,850 difference in price between the CR-V and CR-V Hybrid. When looking at the range-topping trims, the CR-V is $4,840 cheaper.
As the more affordable model, the CR-V is available with far more affordable lease deals than the CR-V Hybrid. Both compact SUVs are available with similar financing deals for shoppers looking to purchase a model.
CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid Mileage
The Honda CR-V Hybrid’s powertrain makes it far more efficient than the standard CR-V. The CR-V Hybrid is rated to get up to 40 mpg combined with front-wheel drive, which breaks down to 43 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. With all-wheel drive, the CR-V Hybrid can get up to 37 mpg combined.
The best the CR-V can get is up to 30 mpg combined (28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway) with FWD. With AWD, those figures drop to 29 mpg combined with figures of 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
The EPA estimates that the CR-Hybrid has an annual fuel cost of $1,350 for drivers that spend 45% of their time on the highway and 55% of their time in the city with 15,000 annual miles covered. With the same estimates, the CR-V has an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,800.
CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid Engine Specs
When it comes to performance, there’s a large difference between the Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid. The CR-V is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. The CR-V’s engine is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission. FWD is standard and AWD is available.
Power for the CR-V Hybrid comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. Output is rated at 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. Just like the CR-V, the CR-V Hybrid comes with FWD and is available with AWD.
Despite being heavier than the CR-V, the CR-V Hybrid delivers slightly quicker acceleration than the CR-V in the real world. Around town, the CR-V Hybrid feels peppier than the turbo CR-V and is just as willing to pass other drivers on the highway.
CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid Cargo Space
Honda’s engineers positioned the CR-V Hybrid’s electrical components in a way that preserves interior space. Both the CR-V and CR-V Hybrid offer a similar amount of interior space for passengers and cargo.
When it comes to cargo capacity, the CR-V and CR-V Hybrid have 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. With the rear seats folded, the compact SUVs offer a total of 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space.
CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid Towing Capacity
Neither the CR-V nor the CR-V Hybrid is great options for drivers looking to tow cargo. Both options are below average for the segment, though the standard CR-V is the better option.
When properly equipped, the CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds. The CR-V Hybrid lags slightly behind with a towing capacity of up to 1,000 pounds. While an extra 500 pounds may not sound like a lot, it could be a large difference for shoppers who plan on towing cargo regularly.
Which Honda Is Better CR-V vs. CR-V Hybrid?
It shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that the Honda CR-V and CR-V Hybrid are similar vehicles. They have similar towing capacities, features, interior space, and cargo capacity. Where the two models differ from one another is when it comes to powertrains and fuel economy.
While the CR-V Hybrid is more expensive than the CR-V, it’s the better choice for most drivers. It comes with a more powerful electrified engine and gets far better fuel economy than the CR-V. The electrified powertrain in the CR-V Hybrid doesn’t affect interior space, performance, or towing capacity dramatically, either.
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