Honda has finally added a hybrid version to the 2020
CR-V’s U.S. lineup, making it the first electrified SUV the brand has offered
in America. In addition to the new Hybrid, the rest of the range has been updated
with subtle design tweaks in the front and rear, as well as having the Honda
Sensing suite of driver-assistance systems offered as standard.
Honda has also ditched the base 2.4-liter naturally
aspirated engine from its lineup, which leaves the turbocharged, 190 HP
1.5-liter four as the only non-hybrid option. The new hybrid powertrain of the
2020 CR-V is similar to that of the Accord Hybrid, as it combines a 2.0-liter
four-cylinder Atkinson cycle petrol engine with two electric motors. This also
makes it all-wheel drive, with an electronic clutch activated when slip is
detected to power the rear wheels.
Honda says that the combined output of the CR-V
Hybrid is 212 HP and claims it offers a 50 percent increase in EPA’s city fuel
economy rating compared to the standard 1.5 Turbo. The final EPA fuel economy
ratings aren’t available yet, but if Honda’s claims turn out to be accurate,
expect the hybrid version to offer around 44 mpg city.
The exterior design differences are limited to a set
of bar-type LED fog lights, a blue Honda logo, Hybrid badging and a hidden
exhaust tailpipe. All 2020 CR-Vs feature a more pronounced chrome grille, wider
openings for the fog lights, dark-tinted taillights and a dark-chrome treatment
for the garnish below the rear glass.
The new CR-V Hybrid also gets a unique instrument
panel that shows hybrid-specific information about the power/charge status and
more, a set of deceleration selector paddles behind the steering wheel, as well
as three available driving modes named Econ, Sport and EV. All versions benefit from a
redesigned center console bin that now offers more flexible storage options and
wireless phone charging from the Touring trim level upwards.
Sales of the revamped CR-V will commence this fall,
with the Hybrid, which will be produced in Honda’s Indiana plant, to follow in
early 2020.
