Towing capability is a much sought-after feature for many truck and SUV drivers, but for those who fancied owning a hybrid Honda CR-V, that was never an option. Until now, that is. The brand-new sixth generation of the Honda CR-V is upon us, and the two available hybrid models now come with the capability to tow.

The new Honda CR-V hybrid models

The 2023 Honda CR-V will come with four trim levels. These include the EX and EX-L, which are gasoline-powered, and the Sport and Sport Touring, which are hybrids. 

The hybrid models will be equipped with a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder gasoline-powered engine, which will be paired with a two-motor hybrid system. The combination powertrain produces 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque. The available drive modes will include Econ, Normal, Sport, and Snow.

Honda Auto News reports that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be available on the Sport trim and will come wireless on the Sport Touring. The Sport Touring trim will also come equipped with a 9-inch HD touchscreen, while the Sport trim gets a 7-inch screen. 

The Honda Sensing system will come standard, along with a wide-view camera and radar, low-speed braking control, traffic sign recognition, and traffic jam assist.

Hybrid Honda CR-V models can now tow 

One of the new features that most hybrid Honda CR-V fans are looking forward to is the ability to tow. Many people are drawn to SUVs for the room, car-like feel, extra space, and taller height. However, the lack of towing capability has forced many would-be hybrid CR-V owners into other SUVs that offer it. Honda has finally rectified this.

In this case, you’re not getting a ton of towing ability. The 2023 Honda CR-V Sport and Sport Touring certainly aren’t in the ranks of the Subaru Outback or the Dodge Durango, which can both tow in excess of 8,000 lbs.

With that being said, the Sport and Sport Touring can tow up to 1,000 lbs. This means you can haul small campers, such as teardrop styles, or perhaps a fishing boat within the weight limit. 

Even though you won’t be towing huge boats or campers, taking the same precautions while hauling a load is crucial.

How much can you tow if you choose the gasoline-powered CR-V?

You can tow up to 1,500 lbs with the EX or the EX-L trim of the 2023 Honda CR-V model. That’s the same as the 2022 model was able to tow up to 1,500 lbs, according to Edmunds.

So, now the main problem is if you go with a hybrid or gasoline CR-V. While the ability to save gas will be amazing on the hybrid models, you’ll also have less towing capability. One thing is for sure, however. The choice is not going to be easy.