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The 2021 Honda CR-V hybrid is finally arriving to the US. Well, we expected such an outcome after the model for Europe debuted. Now, buyers in the market where CR-V is among the best-selling vehicles in 2018 and 2019 are getting the same drivetrain. Thanks to the upgrade, the crossover SUV is going to match the mileage of the Toyota Rav4 Hybrid (40 mpg). Honda also provides other details about the upcoming model, saying the total output of the system based on a 2.0-liter petrol unit is 212 hp.
This crossover is one of the most popular vehicles in the world, not only in the US. In the last couple of years it fought Rav4, but Toyota was more successful thanks to the electric battery attached to its model. Now, with the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid in the market, we expect even more from this nameplate.
Well, the hybrid engine is not the only update for the upcoming CR-V. It also comes with a restyled look and more equipment inside the cabin. It is not the time for the new generation, but Honda is pleasing its fans with the facelift of its best-selling model. This is not all by the carmaker since in 2021 we also expect a plug-in hybrid version of their larger Pilot SUV and the Type S for the premium Acura MDX.
2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Specs
The base drivetrain of the new hybrid setup is a 2.0-liter petrol engine. Alone, the four-cylinder unit is capable to produce 145 horsepower. With the help of electric drivetrains, which bursts 180 hp, the total output of a hybrid system is 212 horsepower. The more important detail is the fuel economy, which will beat the class-leading 41 mpg by Toyota Rav4. According to reports, the new CR-V will be able to return 42 mpg. However, the EPA will have a final word on that.
Standard Engines
The new 2021 Honda CR-V will keep the existing drivetrains lineup. A hybrid is just an upgrade. The base configuration combines a 2.4-liter four-cylinder powerplant with the CVT transmission. This combination made CR-V so reliable and popular. Outputs of the crossover are 185 hp and 180 lb-ft of torque. Honda’s vehicle was one of the most economical in the segment with 26/32 mpg. All-wheel drive is optional, but it consumes slightly more fuel (25/31 mpg).
Another option is the turbocharged engine. A 1.5-liter four-pot unit is able to crunch 190 hp and 180 lb-ft. Besides the slight boost in power, you also get a better fuel economy. The 2021 Honda CR-V Turbo can do 28/34 or 27/33 mpg with AWD. The same continuously variable transmission is a power router here. Towing capacity for both engines is 1,500 pounds. Results for a hybrid setup are not available yet.
2021 Honda CR-V Exterior and Interior Changes
As said, besides the engine room upgrade, the new 2021 Honda CR-V will go through a redesign. The position of fog lights takes the most attention up front. Also, the grille is darker than before. Inside, we will find the push-button and a revisited dashboard. Well, we expected this from a hybrid model, but the standard versions are also getting a couple of updates. Digital instrumentation is more transparent and it also bolsters safety.
There are three modes of drives selectable on the dashboard. It creates more space for wireless charging. Paddle shifters are also available on the Hybrid version. Storage is also more flexible. The Japanese company is also updating its infotainment system and the first thing you see is a 7-inch touchscreen display compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Navigation is optional at higher trim levels.
The new 2021 Honda CR-V base model is LX. We still don’t know which trims will be there for the Hybrid model, but the engine is not going to be available with the entry-level package. It is more likely to get the EX model with both petrol and hybrid powerplants. Upper classes are EX-L and the top of the line Touring model. Power tailgate, wireless charger, and large wheels are a few options standard for this model.
2021 Honda CR-V Prices, Release Date, Competition
The new 2021 Honda CR-V will be available early in 2020. The company will update the pricing, but the costs of standard models are to going to be much higher from the current level. The base price of the CR-V is just above $25,000. The hybrid version, with the EX-L model, will start at $30,000, although this is yet to be confirmed. The Touring model raises up to $32,000.
The competition in the compact crossover segment is the toughest in the entire market. With the hybrid drivetrain, CR-V will be capable to compete with Toyota Rav4 and Nissan Rogue. We also expect the Ford Escape to get an electrically-supported powerplant in the near future. There are also two Korean carmakers raising in the segment, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. Also, Jeep is another important player in this class with its Compass and Wrangler 4×4 crossover SUV.
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