Select a year
- Highs Excellent interior environment, exceedingly fuel efficient, elite cargo space.
- Lows Frustrating infotainment, not the fastest in its class. That’s about it.
- Verdict Bad grades are nonexistent for the compact-crossover valedictorian.
Overview
The 2019 Honda CR-V is a triple threat: it packs a host of high-tech equipment, impressive fuel economy, and copious cargo space. As if that’s not enough, it also boasts contemporary styling and excellent road manners. Yes, the Honda CR-V ticks all the boxes for what constitutes an excellent crossover. Add two fuel-efficient powertrains, including a responsive turbocharged engine, and its faults are few. While the compact-crossover league is loaded with home-run hitters, the 2019 CR-V has the stats to be an MVP contender.
What's New for 2019?
For 2019, the CR-V is virtually unchanged. The only minor update is a new exterior paint color called White Pearl. The compact Honda crossover also maintains its spot on our Editors' Choice list, which highlights our favorite trucks, SUVs, and vans for 2019.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The second-tier EX model is an excellent choice, as it offers upgraded tech and creature comforts. We think front-wheel drive is sufficient for most, but those living with harsh winters or who simply must have all-wheel drive can add it for $1300. The top-level Touring model may be the ultimate CR-V, but the EX is one heckuva deal. We wouldn’t even add any options because it comes well equipped with features such as heated front seats, a 7.0-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Honda’s suite of driver-assistance technology.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Likes: Exceptional road manners, responsive turbocharged engine, strong brakes.
Dislikes: Mediocre acceleration, limited towing capability.
Honda did its homework planting its first turbocharged engine in a CR-V and pairing it with one of the best continuously variable automatic transmissions (CVTs) available—praise we don’t give lightly. The base four-cylinder engine is less responsive but provides smooth operation. While most compact crossovers have meager towing limits, the Honda has one of the lowest at 1500 pounds.
Any parent moonlighting as a street racer might be disappointed with the CR-V’s acceleration. On the other hand, they—along with everyone else—will appreciate its refined ride, enthusiastic steering, and strong brakes. The composed and compliant ride of the CR-V makes for pleasant commutes, long or short. Its responsive brake pedal means you receive the stopping power you want when you ask for it.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Good to look at, good to drive, and good on gas. The CR-V is one of the most fuel-efficient compact crossover we’ve tested so far, and it’s not a hybrid—yet. Plus, the turbocharged version has better government ratings than the base engine. The more powerful CR-V earned 32 mpg on our 200-mile highway fuel loop, which is one of the best results in its class. That number combined with its 14.0-gallon tank should provide about 440 miles of highway driving range.
Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo
Likes: Ample passenger space, available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, versatile interior storage.
Dislikes: No mobile hotspot, unintuitive touchscreen interface.
A stylish and spacious interior creates a cool and comfortable environment in the CR-V. Quality materials and a familiar layout combine for a contemporary look and feel. A tasteful balance of faux-wood accents, chromed plastic, and brushed-satin finishes looked particularly upscale in the Touring version we tested. Supportive and nicely sculpted front seats hug their occupants in all the right places to keep them content.
Like a bad hair day, an otherwise excellent presentation is offset by Honda’s frustrating infotainment system. Reintroducing a rotary volume knob is appreciated, but a lack of other controls, slow infotainment responses, and the absence of an auxiliary input can’t be forgiven.
Leading its class in cargo volume and luggage space, the CR-V not only earns high marks in those subjects, but also by way of its inclusion of user-friendly and useful equipment. We managed to fit 10 carry-on suitcases behind the rear seat, which matched the Ford Escape and beat the CX-5 by one. Stash the rear seat, and the Honda offers best-in-class luggage space.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
The CR-V has just about the best crash-test ratings possible. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick for 2019. Along with that, it’s the whiz kid of its class, with the most advanced driver-assistance technology available. Unlike some rivals that reserve these features for the most expensive versions, Honda breaks the mold by making its full suite of driver assists standard starting on the EX model. Key safety features include:
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
- Available blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available automated emergency braking
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Honda covers every CR-V with limited and powertrain warranties that are competitive with most other manufacturers. The Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage are the exceptions, besting Honda and company with an unrivaled 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Their limited warranty is significantly better, too.
- Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
