First Look: 2023 Honda CR-V

Honda is launching a new generation of its CR-V compact crossover. Like its smaller sibling launched last month, the 2023 CR-V grows larger. Unlike the HR-V, the CR-V gets a turbocharged engine or a hybrid driveline in a wrapper that looks much more like Honda's larger and more rugged SUVs like the Pilot.

The size increase is mild, growing 69 mm longer with a 41 mm longer wheelbase, making it 4,694 mm long overall. Interior space grows with the extra footprint, and CR-V now offers more rear legroom and eight angles of rear seat recline.

Cargo volume has long been one of CR-V's highlights, and for 2023 it gets even more of it. Honda offers 1,028L behind the rear seats. Fold them and you'll find 2,166L, a figure that puts CR-V at the top of its class.

The exterior is more rugged than the outgoing model's futuristic look. It offers a large and prominent grille with a faux front skid plate to help make it look tougher. On the inside, it looks much like the latest Civic sedan, not a bad place to borrow from with that latest model's excellent interior design and build.



A 7.0-inch screen is standard with a 9.0-inch version on top trims. All have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the large screen getting wireless versions of both. Honda Sensing is standard with new Traffic Jam assist, low-speed braking control, and traffic sign recognition. Honda has added a digital instrument panel to all 2023 CR-V models.

Two powertrains are available, a 1.5L turbo-four and a 2.0L four-cylinder-powered hybrid system. The 1.5L engine is found on LX, EX-L, and Sport and makes 190 hp with 179 lb-ft of torque. Its updated AWD system can send 50 percent of power to the rear wheels.



Power from the hybrid system is 204 hp with 247 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid will be standard on the Touring trim. It's the first time Honda has offered a hybrid CR-V in Canada, though the previous crossover offered that engine in the U.S.

Other additions to the new model include new knee airbags as well as Honda's next-generation catcher's mitt driver and front passenger airbags.

The 2023 Honda CR-V is set to hit dealers this summer, hybrid models will arrive later in the year. Expect pricing shortly before the CR-V goes on sale.