If you’re in the market for a reliable and popular compact SUV, the upcoming model is likely on your radar. This Honda CRV 2024 review will give you a clear picture of what to expect from this new iteration. Honda isn’t one for radical overhauls, but the changes for 2024 are meaningful and aimed at keeping the CR-V competitive in a crowded field. Let’s look at what’s new, what’s improved, and whether it should be your next vehicle.
Honda CRV 2024 Review
The CR-V has long been a best-seller for good reason. It offers a compelling mix of practicality, efficiency, and comfort. For 2024, Honda is building on that strong foundation with key updates focused on styling, technology, and a new hybrid-focused powertrain strategy. This isn’t just a minor refresh; it represents a significant step in the CR-V’s evolution.
Exterior Design and Styling Updates
The 2024 CR-V receives a noticeable exterior refresh. The goal is a more rugged and sophisticated look that aligns with current SUV trends. The changes are most apparent at the front and rear.
The front end features a larger, more upright grille. It has a bolder presence on the road. New LED headlight and taillight signatures give it a more modern and technical appearance. The body lines are sharper, with more pronounced wheel arches that hint at a tougher character.
- New Grille and Bumpers: The redesigned front grille is more prominent, and the bumpers have been reshaped for a cleaner, more substantial look.
- Updated Lighting: Full LED lighting is standard across most trims, with new patterns that improve both style and nighttime visibility.
- Wheel Options: Fresh alloy wheel designs are available, ranging from 17-inch to 19-inch sizes depending on the trim level you choose.
- Color Choices: Honda has introduced at least one new exterior color for 2024, often a vibrant or earthy tone to stand out.
Interior Upgrades and Cabin Technology
Step inside, and the improvements continue. Honda has worked hard to elevate the cabin’s materials and tech offering. You’ll find more soft-touch surfaces and a generally more upscale feel compared to the outgoing model.
The dashboard layout is cleaner, with a focus on simplifying the user experience. Physical buttons for climate control remain, which is a welcome feature for easy use while driving. The overall sense of space and airiness is excellent, thanks to the large windows and smart packaging.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The centerpiece is the updated infotainment system. It features a larger, standard touchscreen with improved resolution and faster processing. The system is more intuitive than before, though some may still find it lags behind the best in the class.
- Standard Screen Size: A 7-inch touchscreen is standard, but higher trims get a much more impressive 9-inch display.
- Wireless Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard on most trims, eliminating the need for messy cables.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: A configurable digital gauge cluster is available on higher trims, offering multiple layouts and information displays.
- Charging: Multiple USB-C ports are spread throughout the cabin, including for rear seat passengers.
Seating and Cargo Space
The CR-V’s reputation for practicality remains untouch. The rear seats offer exceptional legroom, making it one of the roomiest in its class. The cargo area is also a highlight, with a low load floor and a wide opening.
The rear seats fold down easily with a near-flat floor, perfect for hauling longer items. Underfloor storage in the cargo area provides a hidden space for valuables or charging cables.
Performance and Powertrain Options
This is where the 2024 story gets really interesting. Honda has made a major shift in its engine lineup. The traditional turbocharged gasoline engine is now paired with a more significant hybrid offering.
The base engine for many trims is now a hybrid system. This 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain pairs an electric motor with a gasoline engine for seamless power and efficiency. A traditional 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine remains available, typically on the lower trim levels.
- Hybrid System Output: The hybrid setup produces around 204 horsepower, providing adequate power for daily commuting and highway merging.
- Fuel Economy: Expect the hybrid models to achieve excellent EPA ratings, likely in the high 30s to low 40s MPG in combined driving.
- Driving Modes: Selectable driving modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) allow you to tailor the vehicle’s responses to your preference.
- All-Wheel Drive: The available all-wheel-drive system has been refined for better traction in slippery conditions without significantly impacting fuel economy.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Honda continues its commitment to safety. The Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance technologies is standard on every 2024 CR-V. This comprehensive package gives you peace of mind on every journey.
The systems have received software updates for smoother, more natural operation. For example, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist work together more cohesively for a less robotic highway driving experience.
- Standard Honda Sensing: Includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist.
- New Camera Views: A new rear camera washer helps keep the lens clean for a clear view. Higher trims may add a blind-spot monitoring system with cross-traffic alert.
- Improved Airbag System: The front passenger airbag has been redesigned for better protection in a wider range of collision scenarios.
Trim Levels and Expected Pricing
The 2024 CR-V will be offered in several familiar trim levels, each building on the last with more features and luxury. Pricing is expected to see a slight increase over the 2023 model, reflecting the added content and new hybrid standard powertrain.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected trim structure and what each offers:
- LX: The entry point, likely with the 1.5T engine, basic infotainment, and cloth seats. It still includes Honda Sensing.
- EX: Adds the hybrid powertrain standard, the larger touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and additional comfort features.
- EX-L: Introduces leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a power tailgate.
- Sport: Offers more aggressive exterior styling elements, unique wheels, and possibly sport-tuned suspension.
- Touring: The top trim with all features, including a premium audio system, heated rear seats, a head-up display, and perforated leather seats.
How It Compares to Key Rivals
The compact SUV segment is fiercely competitive. The CR-V faces off against some very capable opponents. Its strengths lie in its packaging, reliability, and now, its strong hybrid efficiency.
Compared to the Toyota RAV4, the CR-V often has a more refined interior and smoother ride. The RAV4 may offer a slight edge in rugged styling and a plug-in hybrid option. Against the Ford Escape, the CR-V typically boasts better resale value and a more spacious back seat. The Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage offer more dramatic styling and often more standard tech features for the money, but the Honda’s reputation for long-term durability is a significant factor for many buyers.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
No vehicle is perfect, and it’s wise to consider a few points. The base engine, while adequate, can feel underpowered when the vehicle is fully loaded. The hybrid system is more responsive in daily driving.
Some drivers find the infotainment system, even updated, to be less intuitive than competitors’ systems. The touchscreen can be slow to respond at times, and the menu structure isn’t always logical. Road noise, while improved, can still be more noticeable than in some rivals like the Mazda CX-5, especially on coarse pavement.
- Base engine performance is just okay.
- Infotainment system lags behind the best.
- Road noise isolation could be better.
- Higher trims get expensive quickly.
Final Verdict and Who It’s For
The 2024 Honda CR-V successfully refines a proven formula. The move to emphasize hybrid powertrains is smart and aligns with buyer demand for efficiency. The interior upgrades and standard safety tech make it a compelling family hauler.
This SUV is ideal for you if you prioritize practicality, fuel economy, and a trusted nameplate. It’s perfect for growing families, commuters seeking relief at the pump, and anyone who values a sensible, well-rounded vehicle. If you seek thrilling performance or the absolute latest in flashy tech, you might look elsewhere. But for the core needs of most compact SUV shoppers, the 2024 CR-V gets a lot right and remains a top contender.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When will the 2024 Honda CR-V be available for purchase?
A: The 2024 Honda CR-V typically starts arriving at dealerships in the late fall of the preceding year, so expect to see them in late 2023.
Q: Is the 2024 CR-V bigger than the previous model?
A: Dimensions are very similar, with perhaps slight increases in length and wheelbase. The interior space, especially rear legroom, remains a class-leading strength.
Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2024 Honda CR-V hybrid?
A: Official EPA numbers aren’t always final yet, but expect the 2024 CR-V hybrid to achieve an estimated 40 MPG combined, with possibly higher ratings for front-wheel-drive models.
Q: Does the 2024 CR-V have a spare tire?
A: Most trims come with a temporary spare tire. It’s always a good idea to confirm this with your dealer, as some manufacturers are moving to tire repair kits to save space.
Q: Are there any significant problems with the newer CR-V models?
A: The current generation has a strong reliability record so far. It’s always wise to check the latest ratings from sources like Consumer Reports and JD Power for the most current long-term data.
Q: Should I wait for the 2024 model or get a 2023?
A: If you want the latest hybrid tech, updated styling, and interior upgrades, waiting for the 2024 is worth it. If you’re looking for a deal on a outgoing model and prefer the traditional turbo engine, a 2023 could be a great value.