Cargazing
By Derek Price
The 2025 Honda CR-V proves that evolution can be better than revolution.
Building on the success of its predecessors, this latest iteration of Honda’s popular compact SUV offers a masterclass in practical, efficient family transportation.
At the heart of my tester, a CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring model, is a refined 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors, producing a combined 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.
This powertrain delivers a smooth and efficient driving experience, with impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 40 mpg in the city and 34 on the highway.
On the road, the CR-V demonstrates Honda’s expertise in chassis tuning. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback without being overly heavy.
Handling is competent and predictable, striking a nice balance between comfort and responsiveness. The ride quality is excellent, soaking up road imperfections with aplomb.
Inside, the CR-V continues to impress with its spacious and well-designed cabin. Material quality is high, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and solid construction throughout. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats offer plenty of legroom, and when folded, they reveal a cavernous cargo area that’s among the best in its class.
The CR-V’s understated yet handsome styling reflects its focus on function over flash, with clean lines and subtle sporty touches in the Sport Touring trim.
Technology integration is generally good, though not class-leading. The 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system — standard on the Sport Touring trim — is responsive and easy to use, but its size falls short of some competitors’ larger offerings.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a wireless charging pad.
Safety remains a strong suit for the CR-V. Honda Sensing, the brand’s suite of driver assistance technologies, comes standard and includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking.
However, the CR-V Hybrid isn’t without its shortcomings. Acceleration, while adequate for daily driving, lacks the punchy feel of some turbocharged rivals. Also, the continuously variable transmission can make the engine drone under hard acceleration, detracting from the otherwise refined driving experience.
While the hybrid system improves fuel economy, the engine and transmission combo can be noisy when climbing hills or merging onto highways.
Spacious, well-built, and thoughtfully designed, the CR-V’s cabin prioritizes comfort and versatility, with ample room for both passengers and cargo.
At $42,605 as tested, the CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring represents solid value in the compact SUV segment. It undercuts some similarly equipped rivals while offering Honda’s reputation for reliability and strong resale value.
Ultimately, the current-generation CR-V succeeds by doing everything well, even if it doesn’t necessarily excel in any one area.
It’s a jack-of-all-trades SUV that prioritizes practicality, efficiency and comfort — qualities that resonate strongly with family buyers. While it may not set pulses racing, it’s hard to fault Honda for sticking to a formula that’s made the CR-V a perennial bestseller.
For those seeking a no-fuss, highly competent compact SUV that can handle everything from school runs to weekend getaways with equal skill, the CR-V should be at the top of the test drive list.
At A Glance
WHAT WAS TESTED?
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD Sport Touring ($40,800). Options: Premium paint ($455). Price as tested (including $1,350 destination charge): $42,605
BY THE NUMBERS
Wheelbase: 106.3 in.
Length: 184.8 in.
Width: 73.5 in.
Height: 66.5 in.
Power: 2.0-liter four cylinder plus electric motors (204 hp, 247 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Continuously variable
MPG: 40 city, 34 highway
RATINGS
Style: 9
Performance: 7
Price: 9
Handling: 8
Ride: 7
Comfort: 7
Quality: 9
Overall: 9
WHY BUY IT?
The CR-V offers an unbeatable combination of practicality, efficiency and reliability, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a no-nonsense compact SUV that excels in everyday use.