The Honda CR-V  may not be the most thrilling compact SUV, but it satisfies in other ways. Critics and consumers appreciate the CR-V for its comfort and long-term reliability. And for the incoming model year, reviewers are already giving the 2021 CR-V high marks. 

What’s so great about the 2021 Honda CR-V?

In 2020 the CR-V easily outshined many of its rivals. That said, it’s not surprising that the CR-V is separating itself from the pack for 2021. Honda isn’t introducing any significant changes for 2021 compared to the outgoing model. Still, critics like U.S. News feel that the 2021 CR-V is as near-perfect as you can get. 

“[The CR-V] is about as close to the total package as you can find in this segment. The latest iteration of Honda’s small crossover is compact in name only as it boasts a huge cargo hold and near class-leading passenger space. The upscale materials further add to the impressive cabin.”

U.S. News

As U.S. News highlights, the CR-V provides lots of room in a relatively small footprint. The CR-V is a five-seater that boasts ample head- and legroom. This Honda is also suitable for growing families. Furthermore, the CR-V can be as practical or luxurious as you want it to be. You can replace the SUV’s standard cloth upholstery with leather and add frills, including heated front seats. 

2021 Honda CR-V performance

The CR-V offers an engaging and relaxed driving experience. All 2021 CR-Vs feature the same 190-hp turbocharged, 1.5-liter four-cylinder and a continuously variable automatic. Road testers at U.S. News especially like the CR-V’s peppy acceleration and easy handling. 

Fuel efficiency is also a highlight of this Honda. The 2020 version has a fuel economy of up to 30 mpg overall with front-wheel drive. Opting for all-wheel-drive only sacrifices a point. Additionally, you may want to consider the CR-V Hybrid. The hybridized CR-V is standard with AWD and gets up to a combined 35 mpg. 

In-car tech 

While the CR-V’s cabin as a whole earns rave reviews, its in-car tech does not. On the bright side, Honda has made many advanced safety features standard for the CR-V. Standard safety equipment includes automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, and lane-keep assist. Regarding infotainment, the CR-V could do a little better. 

The CR-V’s standard infotainment system includes Bluetooth connectivity and a 5-inch display screen. Rivals, including the Toyota RAV4 and Mazda CX-5, are more impressive here. You can upgrade the CR-V’s infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. But as U.S. News and other reviewers call out, operating the CR-V’s available infotainment system is frustrating. This is mostly due to the lack of physical controls. 

It’s still a good deal, though

Even though the CR-V’s tech could be better, it’s still a winning option. The 2021 model has excellent predicted reliability ratings based on U.S. News’ tallies from J.D. Power. You can expect to pay around $26,500 for an entry-level 2021 CR-V.