2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review

Name: 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review
Brand: Honda
Price: 23429 USD

Honda CR-V Hybrid Touring 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

+136

It was merely a matter of time until Honda hybridized its wildly popular CR-V. Everything we've come to expect and admire about the standard CR-V has been carried over. But, as smoothly as the CR-V Hybrid drives, its lackluster acceleration leaves us wishing for just a bit more grunt. Also it doesn't seem to have markedly better real-world fuel economy than the non-hybrid version.

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2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review

byMark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

Roomy seating
Comfortable ride and secure handling
Standard all-wheel drive

Cons

Disappointing real-world fuel economy
Infotainment system is behind the times
Lackluster acceleration

What's new

Last year's base LX trim is no longer available
Part of the fifth CR-V generation introduced for 2017

Overview

Just like the regular CR-V, the CR-V Hybrid benefits from a spacious interior, plenty of storage space and a smooth ride. On top of that it has a special hybrid powertrain that provides higher fuel efficiency than the regular CR-V. The EPA estimates it will get 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's among the highest estimates you'll find for a small SUV and 9 mpg better than a comparable all-wheel-drive gas-only CR-V. Unfortunately, the CR-V Hybrid underperformed in our real-world fuel economy testing; read our Expert Rating to learn more about our testing experience.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.13 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$104/mo

$181/mo

Avg. Midsize SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

After its redesign last year, the CR-V Hybrid returns in 2021 without the base LX trim, but it's otherwise the same. As a result, it maintains a favorable position among small hybrid SUVs that include the Ford Escape Hybrid, Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the revived Toyota Venza.

What's it like to live with?

Our team of experts have tested a Honda CR-V Hybrid as part of our long-term program, in which we drive vehicles for a year and report to you what they are like to own. Read our long-term CR-V Hybrid coverage to see what we've learned about real-world fuel economy, reliability and more.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.9

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8/10

How does the CR-V Hybrid drive? The CR-V Hybrid sets the standard for this class thanks in large part to the unparalleled smoothness from its hybrid powertrain. The transition from the electric motor to the gas engine is seamless and rivals that of systems typically found on luxury cars costing twice as much.

The brakes are equally as smooth and deliver confident stops up to a traffic light or in a panic-braking situation. At our test track, the CR-V Hybrid showed excellent consistency, stopping from 60 mph in 125 feet. That's 6 feet shorter than the RAV4 Hybrid we tested.

But the CR-V Hybrid is let down by its lackluster acceleration. Even though it's more powerful than a standard CR-V on the spec sheet, our testing showed otherwise. The 0-60 mph sprint took 8.5 seconds, which is a full second slower than the non-hybrid model. Climbing longer grades takes a heavy foot, and you can hear the underpowered gasoline engine struggling to hold a steady speed.

Comfort

8/10

How comfortable is the CR-V Hybrid? It's difficult to find fault here. From its accommodating seats to its extremely well-sorted ride, the CR-V Hybrid is comfortable for a wide variety of people. The climate control system has no trouble maintaining a comfortable temperature and can adequately cool rear passengers too.

Oddly enough, because the engine and transmission are so smooth, the Hybrid exposes a real lack of sound insulation in the CR-V. Road noise from other vehicles on the road is prevalent, and wind noise is pervasive at highway speeds.

Interior

8/10

How’s the interior? With the exception of the push-button gear selector, there's not much to separate the CR-V Hybrid from the non-hybrid model, and that's fine by us. Thanks to its generous door openings and agreeable ride height, getting into the CR-V Hybrid is a breeze for all passengers. And once inside, the interior is spacious for all occupants. Even taller rear passengers will find more than enough legroom.

Visibility is generally good, especially looking forward thanks to slim windshield pillars and a relatively low hoodline. But a high beltline, no matter how tall the windows are, can make it difficult to see a car directly alongside you. And while rear visibility is fair, the high-contrast, low-resolution backup camera is not very clear in even the best conditions.

Technology

7.5/10

How’s the tech? Tech is a bit of hit-and-miss. The CR-V's infotainment system looked sleek and attractive when it first came out for 2017, but by the latest standards it's showing its age. That's not to say it's poor, but offerings from Mazda and Hyundai are easier to use and nicer to look at.

Even though we weren't won over by our test vehicle's top-of-the-line audio system — its sound quality was unremarkable — we were impressed with the number of charging options. With two USB ports for front passengers and two for rear passengers as well as an available wireless charging pad, every passenger's device should have power.

The CR-V's adaptive cruise control works well, as does the lane-keeping function. Overall, the advanced driver aids are well calibrated to many different conditions.

Storage

8.5/10

How’s the storage? The CR-V Hybrid offers 33.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which is good for the class. But it doesn't quite match the space on offer in the RAV4 Hybrid (37.5 cubic feet) or non-hybrid CR-V (39.2 cubes). Of course, 60/40-split folding rear seats increase the capacity and flexibility of the CR-V Hybrid. Lowering the seats is easy, and the seats fold relatively flat, but they're a bit heavy to lift back up into position.

Honda continues to impress with interior storage options. From rubber-lined hidden cubbies to various trays and pockets, both front and rear passengers should have ample room to store their personal items. Generous rear-seat space and easy-to-access anchors make installing car seats, even large ones, a breeze.

Fuel Economy

7/10

How’s the fuel economy? The EPA's 38 mpg combined estimate is competitive, but real-world fuel economy in our experience is disappointing. On our standardized 115-mile mixed-driving evaluation route, the CR-V Hybrid struggled to clear 32 mpg, even with a light foot. We suspect the underpowered gasoline engine has to work too hard to keep up with traffic, and the boost from the electric motor simply isn't enough at speeds more than 45 mph.

In contrast, we had a much easier time getting close to the EPA estimates with the RAV4 Hybrid (an EPA 40 mpg combined). We even got better fuel economy on our test route with the regular non-hybrid CR-V.

Value

7.5/10

Is the CR-V Hybrid a good value? The CR-V Hybrid doesn't command much of a premium over the non-hybrid version, and it comes standard with all-wheel drive. As is typical for Honda, the CR-V's build quality is unassailable, and the interior works and fits together in ways other manufacturers can't quite seem to match, especially at this price point.

The CR-V Hybrid's three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper and five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranties are standard for the class. The hybrid components are warrantied for a strong eight years/100,000 miles, just like the RAV4 Hybrid. It's nice to see Honda offering roadside assistance to match the duration of the bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Wildcard

7.5/10

If you value practicality and refinement with a touch of efficiency, the CR-V Hybrid will likely make for a good companion. The Hybrid goes about its daily duties with near exceptional smoothness and composure, so much so that it almost starts feeling like more of a luxury car than a small Honda SUV. It provides little thrill or driving enjoyment, but the CR-V's competence can take the edge off in its own way.

Which CR-V Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?

Value and efficiency are the name of the game here. That's why we recommend the base EX trim. You get a long list of standard equipment and advanced safety features for the money. The extras on the EX-L and Touring are nice but nothing that you can't live without.

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid models

The 2021 CR-V Hybrid is offered in three trim levels: EX, EX-L and Touring. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a hybrid system combines to produce 212 horsepower. All three trims come standard with all-wheel drive. Feature highlights include:

EX
The entry-level EX trim comes well appointed with:

LED headlights
Keyless ignition and entry
Remote engine start
Heated side mirrors
Heated front seats
Power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings
7-inch touchscreen display
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Four USB ports
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Eight-speaker audio system

Every CR-V Hybrid also comes with a collection of advanced driver safety aids that includes:

Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the CR-V Hybrid and the car in front)
Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the CR-V Hybrid centered in its lane)
Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

EX-L
Besides the EX features, the EX-L adds a few niceties that include:

Heated steering wheel
Ambient interior lighting
Leather upholstery
Power-adjustable passenger seat
Power liftgate

Touring
The range-topping Touring model completes the lineup with added convenience features such as:

Unique LED headlights
19-inch alloy wheels
Integrated navigation system
Wireless smartphone charging
Nine-speaker premium audio system
Front and rear parking sensors
Roof rails
Hands-free liftgate

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid.

5 (59%)

4 (22%)

3 (4%)

2 (11%)

1 (4%)

4.2

46 reviews

Write a vehicle review See all 46 reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Nice Ride

Corn Doc, 04/19/2021

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

The new Hybrid CRV we bought for my wife has been exactly what she wanted - comfortable ride, good storage capacity, very good mileage in town, nice look and easy to drive. The safety features are what sold us on it - all are smooth and feel totally under control - the lane keeper almost drives for you and the adjustments are easy. The only downside is the fuel economy on the highway. …

Impressive vehicle with everyday people

Kaya , 05/14/2021

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

I have been shopping past two month hybrid suvs and narrowed between RAV4 hybrid and Honda CRV Hybrid. After maybe 10-12 most important comparisons I decided Honda CRV Hybrid EX-L model. My top reasons to pick this car over RAV4 hybrid; 1) both interior and exterior significantly better materials used. Honda CRV interior quality superb, clean, simple, easy to use and stylish. It’s like …

It is so quiet, smooth and has incredible MPG!

Kent in TUS, 02/19/2021

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

I leased this vehicle for my ministry/business and it was the best decision I have made regarding a fuel efficient, almost self-driving 5 person seating SUV that can go almost 600 miles on one tank of gas! As gas prices continue to escalate, I know that I am saving our ministry/business money everyday.

Picked up a lease for a great ride.

David, 01/13/2021

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)

Very nice car to drive, easy and controlled driving experience, real world mpg is about 35 for me, mostly city. And I drive slow, so no way 40 is realistic. But, auto headlights, drive assist, backup camera, heated seats, sound system is nice. Only complaint is misleading mpg estimate.

See all 46 reviews of the Honda CR-V Hybrid

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2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid video

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review: One Year and 17K Miles in Our Honda Hybrid SUV | Long-Term Review

The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a small hybrid SUV that we added to our long-term fleet and have spent the last year driving it around Southern California. In this video, Travis Langness from Edmunds reviews what it was like to live with the 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid for the past year. Travis…

2021 CR-V Hybrid Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$30,560
Engine Type	Hybrid
Combined MPG	38 MPG
Cost to Drive	$104/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	33.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the CR-V Hybrid models:

Collision Mitigation Braking System: Detects and warns of potential front impacts and automatically engages the brakes to mitigate or prevent a collision.
Lane Keeping Assist: Monitors the vehicle's position in its lane with a camera and automatically corrects your course to prevent an inadvertent lane departure.
Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow: Adjusts the speed to maintain a set distance from traffic ahead and can bring the vehicle down to a stop.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover16.4%

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2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which CR-V Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid models

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid.

Trending topics in reviews

Most helpful consumer reviews

Nice Ride

Impressive vehicle with everyday people

It is so quiet, smooth and has incredible MPG!

Picked up a lease for a great ride.

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid video

2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid Review: One Year and 17K Miles in Our Honda Hybrid SUV | Long-Term Review

2021 CR-V Hybrid Highlights

Safety

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