Honda CR-V e:PHEV (2024) review

Almost 30 years after its debut, the Honda CR-V remains one of the world’s most popular SUVs, and for good reason. As Honda’s flagship SUV, expectations for the sixth-generation model are high. With an all-new body, updated hybrid systems, and a suite of advanced technology, the latest CR-V aims to address the shortcomings of its predecessor while retaining the comfort and space that made the previous generation so appealing. But does it deliver?

Tech Specs

Exterior Design

The outgoing CR-V was functional and reliable, but its design was starting to show its age. The new model takes a more conservative approach, adopting a look that’s modern without being flashy. While some may find the styling a little generic, borrowing design cues from other SUVs—the CR-V is hard to call ugly. The overall impression is clean, almost handsome, and it certainly looks more contemporary than before.

Interior

Step inside, and the changes are immediately apparent. The new dashboard, reminiscent of the Civic and ZR-V, is wide, clean, and incorporates modern tech in a stylish way. Honda has done an excellent job hiding the air vents with a smart grille design, giving the cabin a more premium feel. Though some plastics still feel slightly cheap, the overall build quality and material choice feel solid.

The biggest upgrade, however, is the in-car technology. The CR-V now comes with a digital instrument cluster and a large touchscreen, standard across all models. While not revolutionary, these systems are intuitive, clear, and a significant improvement over the previous generation. Complementing this is Honda Sensing 360, the brand’s new comprehensive safety suite. From autonomous emergency braking to lane-change assistance and junction warnings, it offers a wall of protection for drivers.

Space and Comfort

Honda has ditched the seven-seat option, but the five-seat layout is generously proportioned. Rear passengers benefit from adjustable recline seats, and headroom and legroom are ample even with the panoramic roof fitted as standard. Cargo space remains competitive, with the hybrid e:HEV offering 598 litres and the plug-in e:PHEV surprisingly increasing that to 635 litres thanks to clever battery placement.

Driving Experience

Under the hood, both the e:HEV hybrid and e:PHEV plug-in hybrid use a 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with electric motors, producing the same 184hp and 335Nm of torque. The difference lies in battery capacity and driving focus: the e:PHEV can cover roughly 80km on electric power alone, making it ideal for short commutes, while the e:HEV operates as a traditional hybrid for longer trips.

On the road, both variants feel refined. The e:PHEV is particularly composed, smoothing out bumps with ease, while the standard hybrid is slightly firmer but still comfortable. Noise levels are low, and the steering is precise and confidence-inspiring. While not a sports car, the CR-V handles its size admirably, with minimal body roll and a surprisingly engaging driving feel.

Verdict

The new Honda CR-V successfully addresses the flaws of the outgoing model. Its technology, interior quality, and hybrid powertrains have all been upgraded, while the driving experience remains refined and comfortable. The design may not win any bold styling awards, but the SUV looks modern and inoffensive, ensuring it will age gracefully.

Ultimately, the CR-V remains one of the most practical and versatile family SUVs on the market, a car that slots into daily life effortlessly. If you’re looking for space, comfort, reliability, and modern technology without the fuss, the sixth-generation CR-V is a compelling choice.