So, you’re in the market for a reliable and popular compact SUV, and the Honda CR-V is at the top of your list. That’s a smart choice, but now you face a common dilemma: Honda CRV: Should You Buy the CRV 2023 or 2024? Both model years are excellent, but the right pick for you depends on your priorities and budget.
This guide will walk you through every detail, from pricing and features to driving feel and value. We’ll compare them side-by-side so you can make a confident decision without any confusion.
Honda CRV: Should You Buy the CRV 2023 or 2024?
At first glance, the 2023 and 2024 CR-V look very similar. They share the same fundamental design and platform. However, the 2024 model introduces some key refinements and, in some cases, more standard equipment. The 2023 might offer better deals, while the 2024 brings subtle improvements that could be worth the extra cost.
Let’s break down the comparison into clear, manageable sections.
Understanding the Generations: A Quick Background
The 2023 model year was a huge deal for the CR-V. It marked the launch of an all-new, sixth generation. This meant a complete redesign from the ground up:
* A fresh, more rugged exterior style.
* A vastly improved, higher-quality interior with more space.
* New hybrid-focused powertrain strategy.
* Updated technology and safety features.
The 2024 model is not a redesign. It’s the second year of this new generation. Honda used this opportunity to tweak and refine the formula based on early feedback. This is typical for automotive cycles, where the second model year often irons out any initial quirks.
Exterior Styling: Spot the Differences
Most people will have a hard time telling a 2023 and 2024 CR-V apart. The shape is identical. However, Honda made a few small changes for 2024:
* New Color Options: The 2024 CR-V adds Urban Gray Pearl and Canyon River Blue Metallic, while discontinuing some older colors. This gives you fresh choices if you want a unique look.
* Updated Wheels: Some trim levels, like the Sport-L, get new wheel designs for a slightly updated appearance.
* Minor Trim Details: There are tiny adjustments to exterior badging and trim finishes, but nothing major.
If styling is your main concern, both years are virtually the same. The choice here comes down to color availability.
Interior & Comfort: Where You Spend Your Time
The cabin is a big win for both model years. Compared to older CR-Vs, the new generation feels more premium and spacious. Rear legroom is exceptional, and cargo space is best-in-class.
For 2024, Honda made a few notable upgrades:
* Standard Heated Front Seats: This is a big one. For 2024, heated front seats are now standard on the EX-L trim and above. In the 2023 model, they were optional or required a higher trim in some cases.
* Improved Sound Insulation: Honda added more sound-deadening material in key areas for the 2024 model. This results in a quieter, more serene cabin at highway speeds—a common critique of the 2023.
* Revised Interior Colors: Some interior material colors and trim accents were slightly adjusted for a more cohesive look.
The 2023 interior is still fantastic, but the 2024’s extra quietness and broader availability of heated seats are tangible improvements.
Performance & Powertrain: Hybrid Takes Center Stage
This is a critical area. Both years offer two engine options, but their availability changed significantly.
* 2023 CR-V Powertrain Lineup:
* Turbocharged 1.5L Gas Engine (190 hp): Available on LX, EX, and EX-L trims.
* 2.0L Hybrid System (204 hp): Available on Sport, Sport-L, and Sport Touring Hybrid trims.
* 2024 CR-V Powertrain Lineup:
* 2.0L Hybrid System (204 hp): This is now the STANDARD engine for ALL trims except the base LX.
* Turbocharged 1.5L Gas Engine (190 hp): Only available on the base LX trim.
This shift is the most important change. For 2024, if you want any trim above the bare-bones LX, you are getting the hybrid system. The hybrid offers more power, smoother acceleration, and significantly better fuel economy.
Fuel Economy Comparison (AWD Models):
* 2023 1.5T Gas AWD: 26 city / 32 highway / 28 combined mpg
* 2023/2024 Hybrid AWD: 40 city / 37 highway / 38 combined mpg
The hybrid’s advantage in city driving is massive. If you do a lot of stop-and-go commuting, the fuel savings add up quickly.
Technology & Infotainment
Both model years feature the same 7-inch digital gauge cluster and the central 7-inch touchscreen (9-inch on higher trims). The system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is great.
For 2024, Honda addressed one of the few complaints about the 2023:
* Physical Volume Knob: The 2024 model brings back a physical volume knob! The 2023 relied solely on touch-sensitive sliders or steering wheel controls, which many found frustrating. This is a small but hugely appreciated fix.
* Software Refinements: The infotainment software may have minor updates for faster response, but the overall interface is the same.
Safety Features: Honda Sensing Suite
The excellent Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist features is standard on every CR-V for both 2023 and 2024. This includes:
* Adaptive Cruise Control
* Lane Keeping Assist
* Collision Mitigation Braking
* Road Departure Mitigation
For 2024, Honda added a new, useful feature:
* Standard Blind Spot Information System (BSI): This is now standard on all trims. For 2023, BSI was only available on the EX-L and hybrid trims. This makes the base LX and EX trims much more appealing for 2024.
Pricing & Value: The Financial Decision
This is often the deciding factor. Here’s the straightforward breakdown:
* 2023 CR-V (If You Can Find One): As a leftover model, you are likely to find significant discounts and incentives. Dealers are motivated to clear out old inventory. You could get a well-equipped model for thousands less than a comparable 2024.
* 2024 CR-V: You will pay full MSRP or close to it. Discounts are rare on the latest model year. However, you get the updates, the hybrid as standard on most trims, and the latest features.
Consider the Hybrid Cost Equation: A 2024 EX hybrid will cost more upfront than a 2023 EX gas model. But you need to calculate your potential fuel savings. If you drive 15,000 miles a year, the hybrid could save you over $500 annually on gas. Over 5 years, that’s $2,500+ in savings, which can offset the higher purchase price.
Trim Level Comparison Walkthrough
Let’s look at what you get at each level for each year.
Base LX Trim
* 2023: 1.5T gas engine, Honda Sensing, basic infotainment. A solid value if you want simple transportation.
* 2024: Similar package, but now includes standard Blind Spot Monitoring. A slightly better value.
EX & EX-L Trims
* 2023: Available with the 1.5T gas engine. EX-L offered leather and optional heated seats.
* 2024: These trims now use the hybrid powertrain. Heated seats are standard on EX-L. Blind spot monitoring is standard. This is a major upgrade in content.
Sport, Sport-L, & Sport Touring Trims
* 2023: These were the hybrid trims, with unique styling and more features.
* 2024: They remain the hybrid trims, but with the added 2024 refinements like the volume knob and improved sound insulation. The Sport Touring gets a hands-free power liftgate.
Step-by-Step: How to Decide Between the 2023 and 2024
Follow these steps to make your choice clear:
1. Check Local Inventory: Search online for both 2023 (new leftover) and 2024 CR-Vs in your area. Availability will dictate a lot.
2. Calculate Your Budget: Determine your absolute max out-the-door price, including taxes and fees.
3. Prioritize Hybrid vs. Gas: Do you want maximum fuel economy and smoother power? Or is a lower upfront cost more critical?
4. List Your Must-Have Features: Do you need heated seats? Blind spot monitoring? A physical volume knob?
5. Get Real Quotes: Contact dealers for their best price on a specific 2023 model and a comparable 2024 model. Compare the actual difference.
6. Consider Long-Term Costs: Factor in fuel savings (if choosing hybrid) and potential resale value (newer models often depreciate slightly slower initially).
Pros and Cons Summary
2023 Honda CR-V Pros:
* Likely significant discounts and dealer incentives.
* Option to choose the cheaper 1.5T gas engine on mid-level trims.
* Essentially the same great new-generation vehicle.
2023 Honda CR-V Cons:
* Missing the 2024 refinements (knob, sound insulation, standard features).
* Hybrid not available on mid-level EX trims.
* May have limited color/trim availability.
2024 Honda CR-V Pros:
* Hybrid powertrain standard on most trims (better mpg, performance).
* Key refinements: physical volume knob, quieter cabin.
* More standard features (Blind Spot on all trims, heated seats on EX-L).
* Full warranty lifecycle, latest model year.
2024 Honda CR-V Cons:
* Higher upfront cost with little to no discounts.
* Gas engine only available on base LX trim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the 2024 CR-V bigger than the 2023?
A: No, the exterior dimensions and interior space are virtually identical. They are the same generation.
Q: Which year has better resale value, the 2023 or 2024 CR-V?
A: The 2024 will likely hold a slight edge in resale value initially because it is a newer model year. However, both are Hondas and will depreciate similarly over the long term.
Q: Are there any known problems with the 2023 CR-V?
A: The 2023 has proven reliable. Some early owner reports mentioned road noise and the touch-sensitive volume controls as minor annoyances—both items Honda addressed for 2024.
Q: Should I buy a used 2023 or a new 2024?
A: If you find a lightly used 2023 with low mileage, it could be a great value. But compare it closely to the price of a new 2024 with its warranties and updates. A new car warranty is a valuable thing.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V hybrid worth it?
A: Absolutely, especially for 2024 where it’s the main offering. The fuel savings, extra power, and smoother drive make it the superior choice for most buyers if the budget allows.
Final Recommendation
So, who should buy which model?
Choose the 2023 Honda CR-V if:
Your budget is the absolute top priority and you can find a great deal on a leftover model. You’re also content with the 1.5T gas engine on the EX or EX-L trims, and you don’t mind the touch volume controls.
Choose the 2024 Honda CR-V if:
You want the latest and most refined version. The hybrid powertrain is important to you for fuel savings and driving feel. You appreciate the added standard features like blind spot monitoring and the return of the physical volume knob. You’re willing to pay a bit more for these incremental improvements.
Both the 2023 and 2024 Honda CR-V are among the best compact SUVs you can buy. The 2023 represents a potential value play, while the 2024 offers a more polished and hybrid-focused ownership experience. Test drive both if you can, with a focus on the hybrid system, and let your budget and feature list guide you to the right one. You really can’t go wrong with either choice, as both deliver the quality, space, and reliability the CR-V is famous for.