Honda is one of the most respected and appreciated car manufacturers on the market. This reputation is owed to models like the CR-V, which continue to perform year after year without major issues or scandals. Surprisingly, the Japanese manufacturer's SUV has been on the market since 1999 and has come a long way since then. At the same time, it's a rather conservative model compared to the competition, and I think that's what the majority of the brand's fans appreciate. Honda is a consistent and balanced manufacturer, and this seems to appeal to buyers.
Honda has made several small improvements to the CR-V for the 2025 model, starting with the fact that all versions now come with all available safety features as standard. The manufacturer has also reorganized some versions to offer only the most popular ones.
Range and Pricing
The Honda CR-V range has been completely revised for 2025 and now includes only five different versions, which is more than enough if you ask me. Thus, the model's starting price is $37,848 for the two-wheel-drive LX version. This is far from a base model as its standard equipment is quite comprehensive, justifying its higher starting price compared to some of its competitors. The all-wheel-drive LX version starts at $40,648. The Sport version starts at $44,248 with a rather interesting look, notably eliminating almost all chrome elements. Then there's the EX-L Hybrid version at $49,443. Finally, the Touring Hybrid version tops the range at $51,943.
Category and Competition
The Honda CR-V has always been a benchmark in its segment, and that's not about to change. The SUV range has evolved considerably in recent years, and the addition of a hybrid version makes the model even more competitive. Certainly, a plug-in hybrid version would be an asset, but it's not a necessity. Otherwise, the CR-V stands out from the competition with its incredible reliability and the solid reputation it has built since its market introduction. Additionally, the Japanese manufacturer's SUV is one of the vehicles that offer the best resale value in its category, a significant factor for many buyers.
Rivals: Chevrolet Equinox, Dodge Hornet, Ford Bronco Sport, Ford Escape, GMC Terrain, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Compass, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Volkswagen Tiguan.
Design and Technologies
The Honda CR-V 2025 boasts a nice silhouette and features several small elements that differentiate it from other compact SUVs currently available on the market. I particularly like its square and robust front end, which gives it almost a truck-like appearance. At the rear, the design of the lights gives it a bit more character than average. Finally, Honda also offers nice color and exterior option combinations for the CR-V.
The interior is sober and elegant, which is perfect as this type of design tends to age well. The driving position is very comfortable, and the ergonomics have been well thought out. The CR-V is also one of the most spacious and roomy vehicles in its category, another important element, especially for families.
In terms of technology, the best of what Honda has to offer is present. The Japanese manufacturer has significantly improved its multimedia system in recent years, and it is highly appreciated. Navigation is fast and fluid. The driver assistance technologies are also very effective and pleasant to use, which is not the case with some of its rivals.
Performance
For 2025, the Honda CR-V offers two mechanical options, starting with the classic 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with a CVT that does the job quite well. Normally, I'm not particularly a fan of this type of transmission, but Honda offers something seriously good here. Only the base version comes with two-wheel drive, which means you'll get all-wheel drive with most versions of the CR-V.
The Japanese manufacturer's SUV is also now available in a hybrid version with the combination of a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and an electric motor for a total power of 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain is also paired with a CVT, and all-wheel drive is standard here. What makes this option particularly appealing is the average fuel consumption of 6.0 L/100 km in the city and 6.9 L/100 km on the highway.
Weak Points
I must admit that I had to dig deep to find anything that could be reproached to Honda regarding the CR-V. The only thing definitely missing from its range is a sporty version or a model with increased off-road capabilities. Additionally, its towing capacity is slightly lower than that of some of its competitors.
Strong Points
Absolutely everything else. Let's say the Japanese manufacturer's SUV has quite a pedigree. Finally, there are still certain elements that stand out, such as its reliability, comfort level, and interior space. Its build quality is also very impressive, and I sincerely believe that its quality/price ratio is still very competitive even in 2025.
Signature Element
The Honda CR-V is a benchmark in its category. It is one of the few vehicles I can confidently recommend buying with your eyes closed, knowing you won't go wrong or regret your purchase.
Conclusion
The Japanese manufacturer's SUV is a safe bet and certainly one of the highest-rated models on the market. Some will say its reputation precedes it, and it's true that the CR-V's popularity is explained by its past success. Nevertheless, it is still very competitive today and offers a combination of elements that allow it to provide more than the competition on many levels. All this to say that the CR-V's popularity is also due to its current concept, and the model could achieve enormous success even if we ignored its logo.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
