The 2023 Honda comes with incremental improvements over the previous version. It has a slightly larger interior with more room for passengers. It includes more standard features, such as an infotainment system with a 9.0-inch touchscreen and a driver assistance suite such as adaptive cruise, blind spot monitoring and lane keeping assist. And it’s prettier, with bolder style inside and out. The only problem is that he still suffers from the same (yawn) annoying problem.
Oh sure, it’s comfortable and capable and easy to drive. Indeed, it is the ideal vehicle for most people’s needs. But it’s like a fat-free, sugar-free, flavorless frozen yogurt. It looks great and is better for you than other options on the dessert menu. But it lacks pizazz.
The CR-V made the Car and Driver Editors’ List again this year. He’s the straight student who earns the honor four years in a row. This year, C/D recognizes him for his fresh exterior styling and more spacious interior. Honda also tweaked the standard turbo-four engine and continuously variable transmission, resulting in slight gains in efficiency and responsiveness. But the C/D model he recommends is the , which boasts 43 mpg in the city.
Choose a non-hybrid model and you’ll get the standard 190bhp 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. Provides enough motivation to reach 60 mph in under eight seconds. Most models roll on 18-inch wheels, but 19-inch wheels are an option. Configured either way, the CR-V offers a smooth, comfortable ride and decent handling. But it lacks the feel of the Volkswagen Tiguan or the fun-to-drive spirit of the Mazda CX-5.
The 2023 Honda CR-V is a bit boring
It’s not that there’s nothing wrong with the . It’s the perfect four-wheeled means of transportation to make your life easier and less stressful. The worst thing Car and Driver could say about the CR-V is that it’s “not as exciting as some rivals.”
You could chalk that lack of excitement down to the modest acceleration. It’s not as fast as some rivals. But C/D sums up its assessment of Honda’s compact SUV like this: “The redesigned CR-V is built to keep its spot on the bestseller list, with a smooth ride, practical cabin and fuel-efficient powertrains.”
And this is where the problem lies. It was redesigned to “keep its place on the bestseller list”. This means that Honda went to great lengths to develop a CR-V that would please most people and be the least offensive vehicle in its class. Therefore, the CR-V is homogenized and a bit boring.
These CR-V alternatives boast improved styling and a fun driving experience
Four others also made the Car and Driver 2023 editors’ list. Starting with the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, C/D praises both SUVs’ styling and near-luxe cabs on top trims. Reviewers found the powerplants responsive and worth the extra cash. Additionally, both vehicles offer a healthy dose of style and the right mix of attributes to rival any model in the small SUV category.
Moving on to the Mazda CX-5, reviewers like the “artsy” exterior design, refined handling, and rich interior. While cargo area and rear-seat space weren’t as generous as the Honda CR-V, the CX-5 is one of the most fun-to-drive vehicles in this segment.
Finally, the Volkswagen Tiguan made the C/D list for its roomy cabin, European styling and easy handling. Editors thought the Tiguan could use more horsepower, but its handling “is a breath of fresh air.”
2023 Honda CR-V: the verdict
The small SUV segment is one of the busiest and most competitive. So it offers many excellent vehicles to choose from. Top models include Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Volkswagen Tiguan and . All are excellent choices and offer years of reliable service.
As for the CR-V, it has long been the gold standard and the target of every other automaker. And while it may not be as exciting to drive as the Tiguan and CX-5 or as futuristic-looking and feature-laden as the and Sportage, it still delivers all-around goodness.
