All-New Honda CR-V Touts Advanced Hybrid System

CR-V hybrid models are a key step in Honda’s electrification strategy; will represent about 50 percent of CR-V sales annually

TORRANCE, Calif. – The all-new 2023 Honda CR-V has arrived with a rugged and sophisticated design, along with a new, more advanced 4th-generation hybrid-electric system. CR-V hybrid models are positioned as the top of the CR-V lineup and will represent about 50 percent of sales for this 6th generation, a key step in the Honda electrification strategy. The 2023 CR-V is launching this summer, with the Hybrid model launching later in the year.

The new CR-V is the perfect vehicle for daily life or weekend getaways. With its longer and wider body, premium proportions, and broader stance, it’s a head-turner on the road. But it’s not just about looks – the new CR-V is also more fun to drive, with confident and refined dynamics. Plus, it has increased torque and capability, making it even more versatile. Whether you’re running errands around town or exploring the great outdoors, the new CR-V is up for anything.

The new 2021 CR-V is available in four trim levels, including the new hybrid-powered and more boldly styled CR-V Sport and Sport Touring. With 247 lb.-ft of torque from the new generation two-motor hybrid system, they are the most powerful CR-Vs ever.

The all-new CR-V features a sporty and modern interior with fine craftsmanship, high-quality materials and must-have tech features. It’s also more quiet and comfortable, with new front Body Stabilizing Seats to reduce fatigue and improve posture. Plus, it has the most cabin and cargo space in CR-V history. Standard class-leading safety features include Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technology with a new wide-view camera and radar, next-gen front airbags, as well as new rear side-impact and knee airbags.

Honda Interior

“As America’s outright best-selling SUV of the past 25 years the Honda CR-V has played a critical role in our past, but what’s significant about the all-new CR-V is the important role it will play in our future – with the CR-V hybrid to represent about 50 percent of sales,” said Mike Kistemaker, assistant vice president of Honda sales at American Honda. “More stylish, more rugged, more tech and more fun-to-drive, this 6th generation CR-V will be best in class in a large segment where that really matters.”

New More Powerful, More Capable Hybrid Models

The all-new 4th-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system in the CR-V Sport and Sport Touring models provides a sportier driving feel. The newly refined 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine features direct fuel injection, and is mated to a pair of electric motors that are now mounted side-by-side. This new configuration allows for the use of a larger propulsion motor with increased torque output. Combined system output is 2041 hp (a 3 hp increase, ISO net), while the traction-motor peak torque rises to 247 lb.-ft. of torque (up 15 lb.-ft.).

The new hybrid-electric system is more refined and offers up to 1,000 pounds of towing capacity. Linear Shift Control elevates the driving experience by mimicking the vehicle speed-linked rev feel associated with a conventional drivetrain shifting gears at wide open throttle. The new hybrid-electric system also allows for a substantial increase in continuous maximum speed—which climbs from 86 mph to 115 mph.

The updated 1.5-liter turbo engine in the CR-V EX and EX-L provides additional refinement, improved emissions performance and 190 horsepower (SAE net at 6,000 rpm). Enhancements include a new high-efficiency, high-response turbocharger and 4-2 exhaust port cylinder head that help the 4-cylinder engine maintain peak power over a broader range of rpm. Its torque peak of 179 lb.-ft. also arrives 300-rpm earlier, from 1,700-5,000 rpm, improving response. Engine noise also has been reduced significantly.

The CVT for the 1.5-liter turbo has been updated to reduce noise and vibration, providing significant drivability and performance improvements. Step-Shift programming simulates gear changes at full throttle for an even more responsive driving experience.

Real Time AWD with the Intelligent Control System™ has been updated to improve traction management in slippery conditions like snow and mud. This system is available on all grades, and standard on Sport Touring, and can now send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels.

For the first time CR-V features Hill Descent Control. Standard across the lineup, this system increases off-road capability with more control on steep, slippery declines. Drivers can select speeds between 2 and 12 mph for a more controlled descent.

There are three standard drive modes to choose from, each optimized for different conditions. In addition to Normal and Econ modes, there’s a new Snow mode that maximizes traction and performance in slick, snowy conditions. Sport and Sport Touring models also have a Sport mode.

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