The wait is finally over. The new Honda CR-V is finally here. This high anticipated SUV could have the chops to take rivals like the 2023 Toyota RAV4 down. The 2023 Honda CR-V gained plenty of upgrades but didn’t get more horsepower. 

2023 Honda CR-V engine options 

The standard 2023 Honda CR-V engine is the same 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as before. It pumps out 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. However, it was improved to provide a better performance. 

The engines’ torque curve and the continuously variable automatic transmission were tweaked to reduce noise and vibration to create a more peaceful driving experience. 

But the Honda CR-V hybrid has a little more power. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors now crank out 204 hp instead of 212 hp. But the torque was increased to 247. This should help provide a sportier performance. 

Also, the CR-V Hybrid can tow up to 1,000 lbs. The previous generation isn’t rated for towing. The gas-powered model can tow up to 1,500 lbs, while the Toyota RAV4 can tow up to 3,500 lbs. 

The hybrid powertrain is now standard with the top two trim levels. It may still only provide an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the highway. 

2023 CR-V: What else is new? 

The 2023 Honda CR-V is a bit more capable than before. The chassis was revised, and the overall length increased by three inches. The wheelbase is 1.6-inches longer, and the track is about half an inch wider for a smoother ride. 

Honda recalibrated the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist features to respond more naturally. 

All-wheel drive is optional across the lineup, but hill descent control is standard. Plus, there is a new Snow driving mode and a Sport mode for the top-spec hybrid trims. Perhaps the Honda CR-V TrailSport will arrive soon. 

According to AutoBlog, the Honda CR-V Hybrid has even more cargo space than before. There are over 36.0 cubes of cargo space behind the rear seats, with up to 76.5 cubes total. This should provide plenty of room to compensate for the low towing capacity. 

Blind spot warning is now standard, and you can opt for traffic jam assist, a wide frame camera with radar, low-speed braking control, and traffic sign recognition. 

How much does the 2023 CR-V cost? 

Official pricing for the 2023 Honda CR-V hasn’t been released. But the new models are expected to arrive by the end of the year, so we should learn more soon. The 2022 CR-V starts at about $26,800. 

The price may increase by a few thousand bucks to cover all the powerful and luxurious upgrades. The seats have been redesigned to improve comfort, the center console is larger, and there is a new 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster. 

You can opt for a wireless phone charger, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The 9-inch infotainment screen looks great, and the passenger seats have eight different recline levels for improved comfort. 

Basically, the Honda CR-V looks more confident, offers a more comfortable ride, provides a more engaging experience, and is loaded with tech. We can’t wait to get behind the wheel!