The best-selling vehicle in Honda’s family is new for the 2020 season. The company refreshed the crossover after three years in the market and the 2021 Honda CR-V will be unchanged. So, we will see three configurations available for this vehicle. Naturally-aspirated, turbo, and hybrid units are there for the new season. Besides that, the company upgraded the safety to the new levels. Fresh styling and the latest hybrid models are going to be popular in 2021.
Reasons, why CR-V is so popular, are numerous. First of all, there is great resale value of Honda’s vehicles. It will definitely be a cool thing when you opt for the new model. Although compact, the crossover is pretty roomy. Then, the new hybrid drivetrain is going to show off with class-leading gas mileage. According to announcements, the 2021 Honda CR-V will be able to go 42 mpg.
On the other hand, the CUV is not going to be as cheap as you might expect. Turbo engine is adding a new dimension of driving, but it won’t improve off-road capability. Also, Honda could make more options outside trim levels. Towing capacity is mediocre.
Engines Specs
Under the hood of the 2021 Honda CR-V will be a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine capable of producing 190 horsepower. The four-pot unit also adds 180 lb-ft and replaces an old I4 as the base solution. The company pairs it with a CVT gearbox and the front-wheel drive. Optionally, you can pick AWD. The FWD returns 28/34 mpg, while the AWD cuts it to 27/32 mpg, which is not too bad. Still, the towing capacity remains at 1,500 lbs. This engine does not require premium gasoline for maximum performance.
It is still questionable if the company is bringing back a 2.4-liter naturally-aspirated petrol unit. Turbo mill is more efficient since it produces more power and returns better mileage. A larger powerplant can develop 185 hp and 180 lb-ft, while the mpg rating is 28/27 mpg combined for FWD/AWD.
2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid
The biggest update for the new CR-V happened under the hood. The company responds to the challenge by Toyota, who launched the RAV4 hybrid with 42 mpg. Still, more competition is coming with 40+ mileage (2021 Nissan Rogue Latest News: Hybrid, PHEV Range, Release Date). The 2021 Honda CR-V Hybrid gets 212 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque from a proven system. A 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle unit comes in pair with a pair of electric motors. These will be mounted on each axle and the crossover will arrive as the AWD model. Equipment and trim levels for the hybrid drivetrain are not unveiled yet. by 2021, we will know all about the fresh unit.
Trim Levels and Options
Without the naturally-aspirated and hybrid engines, the base version for the current CR-V is the LX. It is definitely going to be the base package with Honda Sensing safety system and automatic climate control. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available yet, but you can pair your device with the infotainment system via Bluetooth.
More options are coming when you pick an EX model. Here, Honda is installing the two most popular smartphone services, plus a 7-inch display for the audio system. Heated front buckets are there, while a driver gets a 12-way power seat. The moonroof is making things different on this trim level.
The EX-L suite comes with a leather upholstery and an improved audio system that produces sound through eight speakers. Power tailgate makes access to the trunk area easier.
2021 Honda CR-V Touring Is the Most Exclusive Model
At the top of the line sits the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring package with an impressive offer. Well, the price is higher but worth of upgrades. This package offers everything as EX-L, plus a hands-free function for the tailgate. Also, the company adds a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats. Navigation is standard, while the 180-watt audio system is getting the boost to 330 watts. Automatic headlights are using LED lamps.
2021 Honda CR-V Release Date and Price
The model for the 2020 season is still fresh and we are waiting for a hybrid to start sales. It is going to happen soon and the company is not going to rush with the arrival of the new model. So, do not expect the 2021 Honda CR-V to be here before the end of this year. The good thing is that prices will stay put. The base offer is $25,000 and EX and EX-L trims add $2,500 respectively. The Touring version costs $33,000 with a turbo engine. It might be a bit cheaper if the company brings back a 2.4-liter unit.
On the other hand, we are still waiting on the pricing of the hybrid model. We believe the offer won’t be under $30k. Still, it depends on the trim level and Honda is definitely not going to use this drivetrain with the base package. A new hybrid unit and Touring trim could be a perfect match if you want to spend extra money on the crossover.