Honda has a highly successful SUV lineup. This includes the compact CR-V and the midsize Pilot. Both SUVs are redesigned for the 2023 model year and have multiple strengths. However, the 2023 Honda CR-V has one huge advantage over the 2023 Honda Pilot: an efficient hybrid model.

Unlike the 2023 Honda Pilot, the 2023 Honda CR-V has a hybrid model

For its redesign, the 2023 Honda CR-V is much improved. And one of the greatest areas of improvement is the hybrid model. The CR-V Hybrid has an upgraded hybrid powertrain, which is more efficient than the outgoing version. Also, Honda places a bigger emphasis on the CR-V Hybrid. Not only are half of the trims hybrid models, but they are also the most premium versions of the compact SUV.

However, curiously, the 2023 Honda Pilot doesn’t have a hybrid model. The midsize SUV has many upgrades and new additions, including a new off-road trim. However, you can’t get a hybrid version of the Pilot. Honda has other hybrid models. Along with the CR-V Hybrid, this includes the Accord Hybrid midsize sedan. Also, there are plans to bring back the Civic Hybrid compact car to the American market. However, for the Pilot, the only option is a fully gas-powered engine.

2023 CR-V gets higher gas mileage than the 2023 Pilot

The most obvious benefit of the hybrid model is high gas mileage — and resulting savings. Since gasoline is one of the most significant costs of owning a vehicle, an efficient SUV like the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid can save you a great deal of money at the gas pump.

The CR-V Hybrid gets an estimated fuel economy of up to 43 city/36 highway mpg. In comparison, the 2023 Honda Pilot has an estimated gas mileage of up to 19 city/27 highway mpg. That’s a major difference in efficiency. Compared to the Pilot, the CR-V Hybrid gets 24 more mpg for city driving and nine more mpg for highway driving. Also, even if you opt for the fully gas-powered version of the CR-V, you’ll still benefit from higher fuel economy (up to 28 city/34 highway mpg).

Along with saving money, the high fuel economy of the CR-V provides the benefit of convenience. With lower fuel consumption, the CR-V requires fewer stops at gas stations than the Pilot.

Other strengths of the Honda CR-V over the Pilot

The 2023 CR-V has some other strengths over the 2023 Pilot for SUV drivers. With its smaller size and tighter turning circle, the CR-V is more maneuverable than the Pilot. The greater maneuverability makes it easier to park, back up, and drive through curves and around corners. 

Also, the CR-V costs less. It has a starting price of $31,610 MSRP, compared to $39,150 MSRP for the Pilot. While the CR-V is more expensive than most other mainstream compact SUVs, it’s a more affordable option than the Pilot. 

With its efficient hybrid model, the 2023 Honda CR-V has a huge advantage over the 2023 Honda Pilot. If you’re trying to figure out which SUV to get, then the hybrid model is a key factor to consider.