With an extensive overhaul, each component of the Honda CR-V is expected to be tweaked to deliver class-competing performances. So, even the engine and the powertrain might undergo some changes. If sources are to be believed, the new CR-V will continue to make use of the 1.5L turbocharged setup previously available with the SUV. However, this time around, it will bestow better outputs, with the engine producing close to 200 horsepower. Additionally, the SUV might also be available with a 2.0L inline-4 hybrid engine, while a PHEV variant is expected to make its debut with the 2023 MY.
In its upcoming iteration, we believe, Honda’s focus will remain on improving the acceleration capabilities of the SUV. The 2022 Honda CR-V has been the slowest option in its segment, managing a 0-60mph time of 9.2 seconds. With the revamped model, it is expected that the vehicle will continue to be made available with the brand’s flagship CVT unit, which is known for its frugal outlook, and will transfer power to either the front or all wheels of the vehicle.
Model
|
2023 Honda CR-V
|
2022 Ford Escape
|
2022 Toyota RAV4
|
2022 Kia Sorento
|
MSRP
|
$28,000
|
$26,760
|
$26,975
|
$29,950
|
Engine
|
1.5L turbocharged inline-4
|
1.5L turbocharged inline-3
|
2.5L inline-4
|
2.5L inline-4
|
Drivetrain
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
FWD
|
Transmission
|
CVT
|
8-speed automatic
|
8-speed automatic
|
8-speed automatic
|
Power (hp)
|
N/A
|
181 hp @ 6,000 rpm
|
203 hp @ 6,600 rpm
|
191 hp @ 6,100 rpm
|
Torque (lb.-ft)
|
N/A
|
190 lb.-ft @ 3,000 rpm
|
184 lb.-ft @ 5,000 rpm
|
181 lb.-ft @ 4,000 rpm
|
0-60 MPH (seconds)
|
N/A
|
7.7 seconds
|
8.5 seconds
|
8.6 seconds
|
Quarter-mile (seconds)
|
N/A
|
15.9 seconds
|
16.4 seconds
|
16.4 seconds
|
Top Speed (MPH)
|
N/A
|
122 MPH
|
119 MPH
|
120 MPH
|
In comparison, the Toyota RAV4 is the most powerful option available in the segment today, producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft of torque. Yet, its performance is not the most satisfactory. Rather, the Ford Escape is the quickest SUV, managing to lead over its competitors by almost 0.5 seconds and averaging a top speed of 122 MPH. On the other hand, while the Kia Sorento and Toyota RAV4 manage a similar set of timings, the Korean SUV’s burly build and larger dimensions justify its performance potential.
2023 Honda CR-V Ride and Handling
In terms of ride and handling, we expect the 2023 Honda CR-V to remain a comfort hauler. While the exact powertrain specifications are yet to be disclosed, we feel that the SUV will be made to withstand all types of terrains, thanks to an available all-wheel-drive system. Additionally, it is difficult to imagine the CR-V foregoing its athletic handling capabilities and overall agility. While its steering precision has been its strength, whether or not the vehicle remains easily maneuverable with its increased dimensions is a question that can be answered once the SUV has been launched.
2023 Honda CR-V Braking Performance
Similar to other performance aspects, the braking potential of the new Honda CR-V cannot be estimated. There is no information readily available about the SUV’s rotor sizes or curb weight, and consequently, we cannot estimate the halting distance. Nonetheless, despite the suspected changes in its dimensions, Honda will try to improve its performance and reduce the distance from the 2022 iteration’s 128 ft.
Model
|
2023 Honda CR-V
|
2022 Ford Escape
|
2022 Toyota RAV4
|
2022 Kia Sorento
|
Brake Rotors (front) (in)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
12 in
|
12.8 in
|
Brake Rotors (rear) (in)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
11.4 in
|
12 in
|
Curb Weight (lbs)
|
N/A
|
3,298 lbs
|
3,380 lbs
|
3,794 lbs
|
60-0 (-ft)
|
N/A
|
128 ft.
|
122 ft.
|
116 ft.
|
In the segment, surprisingly, the 2022 Kia Sorento manages to decelerate the quickest from 60 mph at 116ft. Despite its higher curb weight, Kia’s larger brake rotors, which measure 12.8 and 12 inches at the front and back, help improve its performance. On the other hand, SUVs from Ford and Toyota, which have smaller dimensions, take 128 and 122 ft., respectively.