If we told you to close your eyes and picture a compact SUV, there’s a good chance the Honda CR-V is the image your mind calls up. It has fought with the Toyota RAV4 for the sales crown since Honda launched it in 1997.
For 2023, Honda has launched an all-new CR-V, redesigned from the ground up. It has a new sophistication, with a new MacPherson strut front suspension, a stiffer frame, and variable-ratio steering to give it a more refined ride than ever.
A more powerful hybrid edition will launch later in 2022. For now, every CR-V on dealer lots uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine making 190 horsepower, mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Two Trims, Nice and Nicer
The 2023 CR-V is available at launch in two trims — a well-equipped EX starting at $31,110 and a near-luxury EX-L with a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of $33,760. Honda also charges $1,245 to deliver the CR-V.
On paper, that looks like a significant price bump from the 2022 CR-V. But Honda has thus far eliminated the sparser base trims for the launch of its compact crossover.
To get the absolute top-of-the-line CR-V, you’d need to opt for the sure-footed all-wheel drive (AWD), adding $1,500 to the price. You’d also have to choose 18-inch black or bronze alloy wheels ($1,800 for either one).
Honda offers a few optional packages for the CR-V EX-L. The HPD (Honda Performance Development) Package ($1,745) adds style with lower bumper and door accents, HPD decals and badgers, and a tailgate spoiler. The Utility Package adds a useful kit like roof rails with cross bars, running boards, and a trailer hitch. It adds $1,780 to the sticker.
Several seasonal protection packages, with features like splash guards and cargo trays, are also available — but most cancel out the HPD Package. Only the All-Season Protection Package II can be added. It includes all-weather floor and cargo mats without adding mud flaps, all at an extra $393.
All-in, that takes the CR-V to $40,978 before the destination fee.
2023 Honda CR-V EX-L Features:
Other features you’ll find on the fully loaded 2023 Honda CR-V EX-L include:
- 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gasoline making 190 horsepower
- Available Real-Time All-Wheel Drive
- 3-mode drive system including Snow and Econ modes
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Power liftgate
- Full LED headlights
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Heated front seats
- One-touch power moonroof
- 8-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound audio system
- Power front seats with driver’s memory seat
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Reclining, fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Wireless Android Auto
- Wireless phone charger
- Smart entry with walk-away auto lock
- Front USB ports
- 9-inch color touchscreen
- Push button start
- Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance technologies, including:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Blind Spot Information System w/Cross Traffic Monitor
- Multi-Angle Rearview Camera
- Adaptive Cruise Control w/ Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Parking Sensors
Upscale Cabin
With its 2023 redesign, the CR-V now boasts the most contemporary, upscale cabin in the affordable compact crossover class. A wide honeycomb pattern down the horizontal center of the dashboard makes it unmistakable. It’s thoughtfully designed, too. The prominent 9-inch color touchscreen is mounted high to keep the driver’s eyes on the road. You use dials, not clunky touchscreen menus, to set the dual-zone automatic climate control.
Honda Sensing Safety Suite
Honda makes its full Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistive technologies standard on every CR-V. Nothing is locked behind added-cost options packages. It’s as extensive as the suites on some luxury cars, including parking sensors, traffic sign recognition, and a useful 3-angle backup camera, so you can choose the view that helps you navigate your surroundings best.
More 2023 Honda CR-V
Read our full review to learn more about the CR-V or see CR-V models for sale near you.
