2020 Honda CR-V: A Refined Classic for Modern Families
For over two decades, the Honda CR-V has been synonymous with reliability, comfort, and user-friendliness—attributes that have cemented Honda’s sterling reputation in the family car segment. Apart from a few hiccups with transmission reliability, the CR-V has been a paragon of vehicles requiring minimal unscheduled maintenance. With its rise as Honda’s flagship model, the automaker has channeled significant resources to ensure that the CR-V stays competitive and fresh.
A Comprehensive Update: What’s New in the 2020 CR-V?
Honda has refreshed the 2020 CR-V with tweaked styling, enhanced features, and a simplified engine lineup. Notably, a new hybrid variant is now available, catering to eco-conscious consumers willing to invest a little more upfront to save on fuel costs. For a detailed overview, be sure to check out our comprehensive 2020 Honda CR-V buying guide.
A Weekend Test Drive: Real-World Performance
Our weekend with the top-tier CR-V Touring included errands, commuting, and a breezy road trip to Port Huron, Michigan. Priced at $35,845, this model boasts an array of premium features, including an optional all-wheel-drive system.
Feature Highlights of the CR-V Touring
The Touring, costing $1,700 more than the next-highest EX-L trim, offers numerous exclusive features:
- LED headlights
- Roof rails
- A hands-free power liftgate
- Heated steering wheel
- Integrated navigation
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Nine-speaker sound system
Our test vehicle was painted in Radiant Red with a cream interior, which, while aesthetically pleasing, is not the most practical for families. The black leather upholstery in the light-blue CR-V Touring tested by our West Coast editor seemed like a wiser choice for resisting stains. However, we did appreciate the heated steering wheel, a feature quickly becoming a favorite.
Interior Enhancements and Practicality
Inside, the redesigned center console houses the new Qi wireless charging pad, conveniently located below the shifter and in front of the cupholders. However, this setup might prove problematic for phones in slick cases or with dangling charging cords.
Despite not being built for speed, the CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque performs adequately for a family vehicle. Paired with a continuously variable transmission, it lacks the athleticism found in some competitors but offers sufficient power for everyday driving.
The Engine Lineup: What’s Missing?
The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine is currently the sole option, aside from the 212-horsepower hybrid system. While this upgrade is welcome for bargain hunters previously stuck with the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter unit, the absence of a more powerful engine option is disappointing. Competitors like the Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, and Ford Escape offer high-output turbo engines, while the Toyota RAV4 even has a plug-in hybrid variant with over 300 horsepower.
Fuel Economy and Driving Experience
Despite the sub-optimal weather conditions, we managed an average of 27 mpg during our drive, close to the EPA’s estimates of 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined. Two-wheel-drive models boast even better figures.
On the highway, we appreciated the Touring’s nine-speaker audio system and semi-autonomous driver-assist features. The sound system, paired with Android Auto, delivered impressive quality. The semi-autonomous features were effective but not without flaws—particularly a lane departure warning system that often issued unnecessary alerts.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Mixed Results
While the adaptive cruise control and steering assist worked well, the lane departure warnings were intrusive and at times, distracting. This system requires more refinement to ensure it provides useful, rather than bothersome, feedback.
Final Thoughts: A Well-Rounded Family Car
Despite minor gripes, the 2020 Honda CR-V remains a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. It offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, with 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space even with the second row in use, edging out the latest Toyota RAV4 and nearly matching the Nissan Rogue.
Priced just above $35,000, the Touring model offers valuable features like a hands-free power tailgate, heated steering wheel, and wireless charging, which are invaluable regardless of climate. While it might not evoke passion, the CR-V is a reliable, practical choice for family buyers who seek efficiency and comfort in their vehicle.
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Jack Carney, Editor, Automotive.fyi
