What to Expect for the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

Honda has redesigned the all-new 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid with the environment and your wallet in mind. This SUV is sure to impress, with excellent fuel economy and an array of features that are perfect for the entire family. Read on to discover what’s in store for the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid. Stay tuned.

Key Redesign Updates

OEM Image via Honda

Honda has completely redesigned the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid inside and out. With its sleek and modern exterior, this SUV is now more stylish than ever. Honda has also updated the interior with new features and a more comfortable design. One of the most notable changes is the addition of a hybrid powertrain. This new powertrain is more efficient, helping you save money on fuel costs. Here, we provide a detailed overview of the key redesign updates for the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid.

Trim Options

Honda has rearranged the trim levels for the 2023 CR-V hybrid to help sell more hybrids; the automaker’s objective is for at least half of all CR-Vs sold in the US to be more fuel-efficient, gas-electric models. The CR-V lineup will now consist of the EX and EX-L trims equipped with the turbo 1.5-liter four-cylinder, while the new Sport and Sport Touring variants will come standard with the hybrid powertrain.

The latter Sport Touring trim will be available exclusively with all-wheel drive (AWD), while this is optional on all other trims. Meanwhile, front-wheel drive (FWD) will remain standard on all trims except the Sport Touring.

Fuel Economy

One of the key selling points of the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid is its excellent fuel economy. Though the estimated gas mileage for the 2023 CR-V isn’t available yet, we expect it will be slightly better than the previous model year. For reference, the last-gen CR-V achieved an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. An improvement on this for 2023 will be in large part due to the addition of FWD to the hybrid powertrain. This powertrain is more efficient than the previous standard AWD system, helping you save money at the pump.

Size and Powertrains

As the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid is based on an all-new platform, it’s now slightly larger than the previous model. It boasts a wheelbase stretched nearly two inches and an overall length increase of almost three inches. Honda has also increased the width by 0.4 inches, which translates to more interior space for passengers and cargo.

The Hybrid version now matches the gas-only model, with 36 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and a maximum of 77 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the gas model’s cargo hold is larger behind the rear seats, as the movable floor lowers to create a flat surface of about 3 inches.

Under the hood, the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid is an updated version of the previous model’s powertrain. It consists of a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It pairs with a continuously variable transmission, which produces less engine noise and vibration. Honda has redesigned the hybrid to simulate gear changes better and reduce the “motorboat” effect. All this comes together to give the CR-V hybrid better acceleration than the previous model.

The automaker has also updated the gas-only model for 2023. It adopts a refined 2-liter Atkinson cycle four-cylinder powertrain combined with two electric motors that produce a total system output of 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. That’s a bump of three ponies and 15 lb-ft over the outgoing model. This puppy can now handle towing up to 1,000 pounds. The top speed for the new CR-V is 115 mph — a figure sure to please leadfoots over the previous model’s top speed of 86 mph.

The AWD system also enjoys an overhaul and can now handle more torque and send up to 50% of the engine’s power to the rear wheels. This helps improve traction and stability, particularly when driving in inclement weather. The system also features Hill Descent Control, which automatically applies the brakes when going down a steep hill to keep your speed in check and prevent the vehicle from losing control.

Interior Features

The 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid features a host of big and small updates. The most notable change is the high-resolution touch screen atop the center stack. A volume knob and large buttons sit below the screen, making it easy to control the infotainment system. Base EX and Sport models feature a 7-inch touch screen, while higher EX-L and Sport Touring models get an upgraded 9-inch unit. All models come standard with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability.

The Honda Sensing system also features more advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, forward collision warning, and a newly standard blind spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert. This system helps you avoid accidents and is a welcome addition for families. New features include Low-Speed Braking Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist.

Exterior Features

On the outside, the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid gets a host of updates that help it keep up with the competition. Both the gas and hybrid models get a new front end that’s more aggressive and sportier. The redesign starts with a square grille flanked by angular headlights. There’s also a larger front air intake and a new bumper design.

The rear of the car also gets a sharp new look with the updated sharp taillights that wrap around the sides of the vehicle. Dual exhaust tips and rugged body cladding are also new for 2023. Meanwhile, tow-profile roof rails give the CR-V a rugged look.

The 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid is a well-rounded vehicle that should appeal to many buyers. It’s impressive to behold, with plenty of power, good fuel economy, a comfortable interior, and a host of safety features. The CR-V should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a reliable and capable SUV.

Honda of Cleveland Heights is your one-stop shop for all things Honda. We have a large selection of new and pre-owned vehicles, and our experienced finance experts can help you get the best possible deal. Contact us today, and take the 2023 Honda CR-V hybrid for a test drive. We’re confident you’ll be impressed.