Let’s hear it for the new hybrid-electric variant.
Talk about some major upgrades to the CR-V hybrid. Also re-designed wheels. Finally and standard Honda Sensing® safety. Most noteworthy and driver-assistive technology (previously available only on EX and above trims).
The Honda CR-V Hybrid is substantially improved fuel efficiency. Like I got 32 – 35 mpg in winter testing. All the while maintaining CR-V’s award-winning balance of interior space. In addition, the driving dynamics. Also the comfort are so impressive. Meaning that’s it’s using lithium batteries. So it’s making it definitely light on its feet.
Two-Motor Hybrid Powertrain
In addition, the CR-V’s advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain. So it’s shared with the current Accord Hybrid. That’s combining two electric motors. I mean a 2.0-liter, 16-valve DOHC Atkinson cycle engine. All with greater than 40 percent thermal efficiency. So that’s the highest for any mass-produced Honda engine.
The CR-V’s two-motor system operates without the need for a conventional automatic transmission. I mean it adds the smooth and seamless power delivery. Of course similar to a pure electric vehicle. As well as it boasts a broad range of electric-only operation.
In addition, the compact intelligent power unit (IPU). It’s containing the hybrid battery pack and its control systems. For that’s mounted under the cargo floor. Thereby allowing the new CR-V Hybrid to retain excellent cargo utility. Also including a 60/40 split rear seatback with a flat load floor. Peak total system horsepower is 212. For that’s up from 190 HP on the CR-V. I mean that’s also with an anticipated 50 percent increase in the EPA city fuel economy rating compared to the CR-V.
Paddle Shifters too
The CR-V Hybrid also marks the first application of all-wheel drive. That’s to Honda’s two-motor hybrid system in the U.S. When available traction is low, an electronic clutch activates. Thereby sending the appropriate level of power. All from the electric motor to the rear wheels.
Available in front- or all-wheel drive configurations, power is transmitted through a smooth yet sporty continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda G-Shift control logic.
Awards
The new CR-V Hybrid have been named the 2020 Green SUV of the Year by Green Car Journal. It loves the road.
Top Safety Pick
In 2021, it was led by strong sales of the CR-V Hybrid (24,406). Yet this CR-V Hybrid has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s (IIHS) 2020 TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) rating.
The CR-V Hybrid also joins the rest of the CR-V lineup. I mean when equipped with specific headlights.
Safety Safety Safety
This CR-V model provides Honda Sensing® as standard equipment. It’s featuring this comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies. That which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Pedestrian Detection. In addition to Forward Collision Warning. Moreover Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) incorporating Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Finally Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS); and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
All Honda vehicles also benefit from Honda’s proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure. So that’s designed to protect occupants in a wide variety of frontal collisions. All along with advanced supplemental restraint systems.
It’s a safe efficient vehicle. Yet I can’t wait for it’s plugin hybrid next steps though!
