I drove the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid. Here's why it gets our approval
I tested the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid for a week for USA TODAY Cars to see how the small hybrid SUV compares to competitive segment rivals like the Toyota RAV4. Honda's family SUV is great on gas, and it has a composed ride quality.
The CR-V handles well, and it has a tech-focused cabin, offering a wide range of standard features I enjoyed. It's an affordable daily driver with enough cabin and cargo space to be practical for small families.
Here's what driving the new CR-V Hybrid is like and why drivers may want to consider buying one.
Overview: What makes the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid stand out?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid stands out in its segment for delivering smooth power despite its complex powertrain setup. I noticed it has more cabin space than other small family SUVs I've tested in 2026.
Honda's vehicles feature a distinct design language and identity that evolves without deviating from the brand's ethos. This small SUV is a Honda first, prioritizing comfort, practicality and sportiness.
It has plenty of great standard safety and driver-assistance features that improve with every upper trim.
I tested the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, which is its final configuration. I was pleasantly surprised by the price-to-feature ratio.
Performance, handling, and efficiency: How does it drive?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine and a two-motor hybrid system to produce 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. It achieves 43 miles per gallon in the city and 36 miles per gallon on the highway.
My Sport Touring Hybrid AWD tester is rated for 40 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.
The CR-V Hybrid doesn't feel noticeably more powerful than the average small hybrid SUV, but it's no slouch on the highway either. I was impressed by how quiet its acceleration was for a hybrid during testing.
Its fuel gauge indicator barely moved after a week of daily driving, so the Environmental Protection Agency's miles per gallon estimates appear to be spot-on for real-world driving. The CR-V Hybrid's handling is predictably precise, and it's easily maneuverable for a sedan driver like me.
Interior, tech, and comfort: What's it like inside?
The final trim, the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid, comes with leather-trimmed seats, a Bose premium audio system, and a one-touch power moonroof, which I appreciated. If you aren't willing to spring for the fully-loaded model, even the base Sport Hybrid features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats.
Honda's small family SUV has an interior that feels right for the price (mainstream SUV), but upper trims like the Sport Touring Hybrid feel luxury-adjacent.
Cargo, space, and practicality: Will it fit your lifestyle?
Honda's compact hybrid family SUV seats five. It's 185 inches long, 73.5 inches wide (without mirrors), and 66.5 inches tall.
The SUV has 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which should be more than enough for most small families. It has enough cabin and cargo space for commuters and parents.
The CR-V Hybrid should fit your lifestyle if you've got a family of four or a small family of five.
Pricing, value, and competitors: Is it worth it?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid starts at $35,630 before taxes and additional fees. It comes in four trims.
2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid trims
- Sport Hybrid: $35,630
- TrailSport Hybrid: $38,800
- Sport-L Hybrid: $38,725
- Sport Touring Hybrid: $42,550
The CR-V Hybrid's pricing is fair given the high average new vehicle price in 2026. Its value proposition is strong since each trim comes with a long list of standard features. I'd go for the final trim since its interior is so refined.
Honda's small hybrid SUV competes with the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. The RAV4 is the most affordable of the trio, starting at $31,900. It's also the most efficient of the three hybrid SUVs, earning 43 mpg combined.
Hyundai's small hybrid SUV comes with the best standard features for the money, including a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Final verdict: Who should buy the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid?
The 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid isn't the undisputed best in its segment, but it offers strong value for fans of the brand and nameplate.
If you're looking for a solid balance of stellar fuel economy, modern tech, and a comfortable and practical interior, the CR-V Hybrid checks all the boxes.
But if you want the best small hybrid SUV for the money in terms of efficiency, the Toyota RAV4 (now a standard hybrid) may be more appealing. Honda's small hybrid SUV is a solid option for commuters and value seekers who want a versatile daily driver.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: I drove the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid. Here's why it gets our approval
Reporting by Charles Singh , USA TODAY NETWORK / USA TODAY
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This story was originally published July 6, 2026 at 2:55 PM.