The 2025 Honda CR-V continues to define the compact SUV category, offering a refined blend of practicality, comfort, and technology. With trims from the well-equipped EX to the premium Sport Touring Hybrid, it remains a favorite for drivers seeking reliability, efficiency, and modern design—all hallmarks of Honda’s enduring reputation.

Overview and Design

Now in its sixth generation since 2023, the 2025 CR-V maintains its familiar silhouette while introducing thoughtful exterior and interior enhancements. The front fascia features a bold grille, streamlined body lines, and sharp LED accents, creating a confident yet refined presence. Inside, material quality and digital integration receive subtle but meaningful upgrades. Early owner reviews emphasize its family-oriented appeal—highlighting the roomy cabin, smooth ride, and easy-to-use infotainment system. While most appreciate its balanced character, some drivers find its handling more comfort-focused than sporty.

Performance and Powertrain Options

Honda offers two main powertrains for the 2025 CR-V. The base engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing around 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The hybrid variant pairs a 2.0-liter engine with dual electric motors, generating approximately 204 horsepower. Most trims come with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

Performance feedback suggests that the CR-V prioritizes refinement and ease of use over outright speed. The hybrid earns high marks for its responsive performance and smooth transitions between power sources. Suspension tuning remains well-judged, balancing comfort and composure even on uneven surfaces. Standard models can tow up to 1,500 pounds, while the hybrid version manages around 1,000 pounds—sufficient for light hauling.

Interior, Space, and Comfort

The cabin of the 2025 CR-V continues to impress with its spacious and ergonomic layout. Rear passengers enjoy approximately 39.3 inches of legroom, making long trips more comfortable for adults. Cargo capacity remains one of the best in its class, offering 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 76.5 cubic feet when folded down.

A minimalist dashboard design combines a horizontal layout with digital instrumentation—featuring a 7-inch display (or 9 inches on higher trims) and a central infotainment screen. Upgraded materials, including soft-touch panels and refined finishes, elevate the interior ambiance. Seat support and adjustability are excellent, and improved cabin insulation results in a noticeably quieter ride, particularly at highway speeds.

Fuel Efficiency and Economy

Efficiency continues to be one of the CR-V’s strongest selling points. The turbocharged engine delivers around 28 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined in front-wheel-drive form, slightly lower for AWD variants.

Hybrid models are even more impressive, offering about 43 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 40 mpg combined (FWD), while AWD versions achieve around 40/34/37 mpg. Real-world results closely align with EPA figures, particularly in city driving where the hybrid system excels. The hybrid’s ability to operate briefly in EV mode at low speeds enhances fuel savings and reduces emissions in stop-and-go traffic.

Market Position and Value Retention

The 2025 CR-V competes in a highly contested compact SUV market against the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Ford Escape—each with distinct advantages. The RAV4 emphasizes hybrid options and resale strength, the CX-5 delivers a more engaging drive and premium interior, the Tucson shines with technology and warranty coverage, while the Escape appeals to those seeking variety and digital connectivity.

SUV Model	Starting MSRP (est.)	Key Strengths	Fuel Economy (combined)
2025 Honda CR-V	$28,500 – $39,000	Reliability, interior space, efficiency	30–40 mpg
2025 Toyota RAV4	$28,000 – $42,000	Powertrain variety, resale value	30–41 mpg
2025 Mazda CX-5	$27,500 – $40,000	Driving dynamics, upscale interior	26–28 mpg
2025 Hyundai Tucson	$27,000 – $38,500	Warranty, tech features	29–38 mpg
2025 Ford Escape	$28,000 – $39,500	Technology, engine variety	28–37 mpg

(Estimates are subject to change; buyers should verify specifications before purchase.)

Honda’s legacy of dependability continues to secure the CR-V’s strong resale performance. Historically, it depreciates more slowly than many rivals, with projected residual values above 60% after three years. For those seeking a dependable, fuel-efficient, and comfortable SUV with enduring value, the 2025 CR-V remains one of the segment’s most well-rounded choices.