Honda CR-V Hybrid 2021 Review

Just like the regular CR-V, the CR-V Hybrid benefits from a spacious interior, plenty of storage space and a smooth ride. On top of that it has a special hybrid powertrain that provides higher fuel efficiency than the regular CR-V. The EPA estimates it will get 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's among the highest estimates you'll find for a small SUV and 9 mpg better than a comparable all-wheel-drive gas-only CR-V. Unfortunately, the CR-V Hybrid underperformed in our real-world fuel economy testing; read our Expert Rating to learn more about our testing experience.

After its redesign last year, the CR-V Hybrid returns in 2021 without the base LX trim, but it's otherwise the same. As a result, it maintains a favorable position among small hybrid SUVs that include the Ford Escape Hybrid, Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid and the revived Toyota Venza.

What's it like to live with?

Our team of experts have tested a Honda CR-V Hybrid as part of our long-term program, in which we drive vehicles for a year and report to you what they are like to own. Read our long-term CR-V Hybrid coverage to see what we've learned about real-world fuel economy, reliability and more.

Which CR-V Hybrid does MatoCar recommend?

The 2021 CR-V Hybrid is offered in three trim levels: EX, EX-L and Touring. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a hybrid system combines to produce 212 horsepower. All three trims come standard with all-wheel drive. Feature highlights include:

EX The entry-level EX trim comes well appointed with:

• LED headlights
• Keyless ignition and entry
• Remote engine start
• Heated side mirrors
• Heated front seats
• Power-adjustable driver's seat with memory settings
• 7-inch touchscreen display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
• Four USB ports
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Eight-speaker audio system

Every CR-V Hybrid also comes with a collection of advanced driver safety aids that includes:

• Adaptive cruise control (adjusts speed to maintain a constant distance between the CR-V Hybrid and the car in front)
• Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
• Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the CR-V Hybrid centered in its lane)
• Blind-spot monitor (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)

EX-L Besides the EX features, the EX-L adds a few niceties that include:

• Heated steering wheel
• Ambient interior lighting
• Leather upholstery
• Power-adjustable passenger seat
• Power liftgate

Touring The range-topping Touring model completes the lineup with added convenience features such as:

• Unique LED headlights
• 19-inch alloy wheels
• Integrated navigation system
• Wireless smartphone charging
• Nine-speaker premium audio system
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Roof rails
• Hands-free liftgate