The 2025 Honda CR-V continues to impress in the compact SUV segment, offering a thoughtful blend of comfort, practicality, and advanced technology that appeals to families and individual drivers alike.
Overview and Exterior Updates
Now in its sixth generation since 2023, the 2025 CR-V preserves its familiar shape while introducing refined exterior updates for a more modern appearance. The front fascia displays a bold grille, streamlined bodywork, and LED accent lighting, projecting confidence and style. Inside, upgraded materials, enhanced digital interfaces, and intuitive controls elevate the cabin experience. Owners consistently praise its spacious interior, user-friendly infotainment system, and family-focused design, though some note that handling prioritizes comfort over sporty performance.
Powertrain Options and Driving Dynamics
The CR-V offers two main powertrains for 2025. The standard 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine generates around 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT for smooth power delivery. The hybrid model combines a 2.0-liter engine with dual electric motors to achieve approximately 204 horsepower. Most trims offer both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Reviews highlight the CR-V’s smooth ride quality and responsive hybrid performance, with suspension tuning that balances comfort and stability across varied road conditions. Towing capacity reaches 1,500 pounds for the conventional engine and 1,000 pounds for the hybrid, meeting typical family and recreational needs.
Interior Space and Comfort Features
The CR-V’s interior offers generous space and thoughtful design. Rear passengers enjoy around 39.3 inches of legroom, while cargo space measures 39.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 76.5 cubic feet with folding seats. The dashboard features a horizontal layout with digital gauges (7-inch standard, 9-inch optional) and a central infotainment screen. Soft-touch surfaces, upgraded materials, and improved sound insulation contribute to a refined interior atmosphere. Seats are comfortable and adjustable, with ample storage solutions and USB connectivity enhancing practicality for daily use and longer trips.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
Fuel efficiency remains a key advantage for the CR-V. The turbocharged engine achieves about 28 mpg city, 34 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined for FWD models, with slightly lower figures for AWD. Hybrid variants deliver roughly 43/36/40 mpg city/highway/combined for FWD and approximately 40/34/37 mpg for AWD. The hybrid’s short EV-only mode in city driving further improves fuel economy and reduces emissions, closely aligning with EPA ratings.
Competitive Positioning and Value
The 2025 CR-V competes with other top compact SUVs, including the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, and Ford Escape. The RAV4 emphasizes hybrid options and strong resale, the CX-5 delivers premium interior quality and driving engagement, the Tucson highlights tech and warranty benefits, and the Escape offers engine variety and modern infotainment features.
SUV Model | Starting MSRP (est.) | Key Strengths | Fuel Economy (combined) |
2025 Honda CR-V | $28,500 – $39,000 | Reliability, spacious interior, efficiency | 30–40 mpg |
2025 Toyota RAV4 | $28,000 – $42,000 | Hybrid options, resale value | 30–41 mpg |
2025 Mazda CX-5 | $27,500 – $40,000 | Driving dynamics, upscale cabin | 26–28 mpg |
2025 Hyundai Tucson | $27,000 – $38,500 | Warranty, tech features | 29–38 mpg |
2025 Ford Escape | $28,000 – $39,500 | Engine variety, infotainment | 28–37 mpg |
Honda’s reputation for reliability continues to support strong resale value for the CR-V, often surpassing many competitors, with projected three-year residuals exceeding 60%. For those seeking a compact SUV that combines comfort, efficiency, and lasting value, the 2025 CR-V remains an excellent choice for both families and individual drivers.