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Honda has redesigned its small SUV for the 2023 model year. The CR-V is one of many new redesigns from the Japanese automaker. The gas-powered version is better than ever, and the hybrid version got a major upgrade as well. The question is, which version of the new CR-V is the better buy?

The 2023 Honda CR-V is ready to rumble with the best in its segment

The front of a blue 2023 Honda CR-V small SUV.
The 2023 Honda CR-V | Honda

The Honda CR-V is cemented in best small SUV conversations. Like its main rival, the popular Toyota RAV4, the CR-V has earned its place among the best in its vehicle segment. In 2022 other small SUVs got their moment in the spotlight. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson’s redesign captivated and intrigued many consumers.

The Tucson has a bold exterior and distinct headlights and taillights. Its design language, coupled with its affordable price and many standard features make it a standout model for 2022. The 2022 Hyundai Tucson is featured near the top of several ranking lists compiled by authoritative automotive publications. Hyundai’s redesign caused other small SUV nameplates like the CR-V to be scrutinized. It became clear to many critics and fans that the CR-V was due for a redesign to remain competitive. Enter the 2023 Honda CR-V.

The 2023 Honda CR-V addressed several of the main concerns drivers had with previous model years. One of the main gripes that CR-V drivers had with previous CR-V model years is its tiny infotainment screen. When it comes to screens, bigger is often better. The industry has recently seen automakers produce vehicles with over 12.0 inches of infotainment screen real estate.

The 2022 Honda CR-V LX comes standard with a tiny 5.0-inch infotainment system. A screen that small just isn’t appealing to most modern drivers. The 2023 CR-V comes standard with a 7.0-inch infotainment system. Some upper trim level models will include a 9.0-inch infotainment system. The new CR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of safety and driver assistance features that includes blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.

The new Honda CR-V Hybrid is the most powerful CR-V Hybrid yet

According to MotorTrend, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid is the most powerful hybrid version of the CR-V to date. It makes 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque using a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors.

The new CR-V Hybrid produces a significant amount of torque, and its towing capacity has increased. It is one of the many hybrid vehicles proving that hybrid powertrains can produce exciting byproducts aside from stellar fuel economy.

2023 Honda CR-V vs. 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

A blue 2023 Honda CR-V small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Honda CR-V | Honda

The 2023 Honda CR-V starts at $31,110. it uses a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylidner engine to make 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The small SUV gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.

According to Kelley Blue Book, the CR-V Hybrid starts at $32,450. It achieves 43 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway. The CR-V Hybrid produces more torque and gets better fuel economy than the gas-powered CR-V despite its small price difference. The 2023 Honda CR-V seems to be the model to get because of its superior fuel economy, power output, and towing capacity.

Read more about the new Honda CR-V in the next article below.

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