The 2023 Honda CR-V is yet to be confirmed by the brand. So, not much is known about the SUV’s trim’s structure and pricing. However, since the CR-V has been offered in a similar number of trims for a few years, we expect the structure to remain almost similar. Consequently, the 2023 CR-V should also be available with five trim options, with expected prices starting at around $28,000. In terms of specifications, it is expected that the SUV will remain unchanged while introducing some technologically-advanced features for a more satisfying experience. It is believed that the Japanese SUV will continue to be made available with both an FWD and AWD setup.

Listed below are the possible specifications that can be included in the new Honda CR-V based on the outgoing model.

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Currently, not much is known about the 2023 Honda CR-V’s trim and features list. So, we would want to reserve our judgment till the vehicle and its specification sheets have been officially launched.

Release Date

The 2023 Honda CR-V release date has not yet been confirmed by the brand. However, considering past timelines and current developments, we expect the CR-V to break cover by the third quarter of 2022.

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.

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.

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.

Like always, it is expected that the CR-V will uphold its frugal nature. In the family-oriented segment, the Japanese SUV’s efficiency has been class-competing and has added to its likability. While the exact figures are not available, it is expected that the fuel tank will have a capacity between 14 and 15-gallons, which is average for the class. Nonetheless, if you want to enjoy the vehicle in its most efficient avatar, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and PHEV variants could be viable options.

On the face of it, the 2022 Ford Escape’s mileage of 28, 34, and 30 MPG under city, highway, and combined driving conditions is class-leading. Yet, the Kia Sorento’s mammoth fuel capacity of 17.7-gallons steals the show. It allows the SUV to average a combined range of 460 miles, which is at least 15 miles more than its competitors.

Perhaps the most noticeable change in the 2023 Honda CR-V lies in its interior setup. As per speculations, the SUV might be available as a standard 5-seat proposition, but with an option to add a third row of seating to accommodate a couple of additional passengers. The added dimensions promise to improve the interior space, and consequently, the CR-V can easily compete with, both, two and three-row compact SUV options. Like always, we expect Honda to cleverly divide space among the rows while bestowing ample cargo capacity.

In terms of design and features, we expect the CR-V to uphold its ergonomic aura in a distinct setup. It is expected to come with a tablet-based infotainment screen that sits centrally. Keeping in mind its accessible price, the vehicle will coalesce premium quality materials with plastic elements to maintain the overall balance of the cabin. The SUV might come with a cloth or leather upholstery on its power-adjustable seats and is expected to sport Civic’s subtle mesh-style aircon vents and other horizontally-placed elements.

In its outgoing model, the 2022 Honda CR-V possessed higher passenger and cargo space than all of its 5-seat competitors. So, it will be safe to say that the SUV might lead the segment. However, when compared to the Kia Sorento, it will be interesting to see if the CR-V can replicate a similar level of space and comfort with its third-row seat as well. For now, the Toyota RAV4 is the most practical option with a maximum cargo capacity of 67.8 cubic feet, which feels ample for a compact SUV.

Some of the expected features of the 2023 Honda CR-V include:

• Keyless Entry
• Power steering
• Dual-zone Climate Control
• Steering-mounted controls
• Interior Cargo Shade
• Optional heated steering wheel

How intuitive is the 2023 Honda CR-V’s infotainment system?

The major problem of the 2022 Honda CR-V was related to the SUV’s outdated infotainment system. It lacked essential features and the small screen size was frustrating to the least. So, in a bid to improve user experience, Honda might aim at revamping the infotainment system. If rumors are to be believed, the system that serves the duties in the new Honda Civic sedan might be used in the upcoming iteration of the SUV as well. It is easy to use, makes use of a technologically-advanced protruding 7/9-inch touchscreen unit, and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. Some of the other standout features that might be available with the 2023 Honda CR-V include:

• Speed-sensitive Volume Compensation (SVC)
• 2.5 Amp USB Smartphone/Audio Interface USB Port
• Radio Data System
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio
• 4/8/12-speaker sound system

As per the 2023 Honda CR-V spy photos, the vehicle has been redesigned ground-up. It now sports a more sophisticated exterior that takes inspiration from the outgoing design. However, in its upcoming MY, the CR-V is anticipated to be curvier, less bulky, and more refined. It is expected to adopt Honda’s latest styling strategy with its smooth headlights, uniquely designed taillamps, and a subtle front grille that sits well with its muscular build. There is visible use of chrome and black plastic across the vehicle’s body. At first glance, buyers might notice a resemblance with the redesigned Honda HR-V as well.

Additionally, the most important change to the new Honda CR-V might relate to its increased dimensions. While individual statistics are yet not known, the SUV might grow in its length and wheelbase to bestow better space in the cabin. Consequently, a third row can be easily added to the mix. It seems that the new CR-V’s purpose is to combine the stance of a station wagon with an SUV’s avatar.

The 2022 Kia Sorento and Toyota RAV4 have sharper designs and look extremely modern. But the Ford Escape might not sit well with all the buyers and could use a design change. However, when talking of the dimensions, the Korean SUV’s wheelbase and length of 110.8 and 189 inches, respectively, make it the largest SUV. Nonetheless, it is the Toyota RAV4 that has the highest ground clearance of 8.4 inches.

Some of the expected exterior features of the 2023 Honda CR-V include:

• Panoramic sunroof
• Heated side-view mirrors
• Fog Lamps
• LED head and taillamps
• Intermittent windshield wipers
• Fin-type roof-mounted antenna

The 2023 Honda CR-V is expected to be built on the Honda Architecture platform, which currently underpins the eleventh generation of the Civic sedan. While the structural integrity of the platform is uncompromised, the upcoming iteration of the SUV is also expected to be packed with safety features to the hilt. These include specifications like a rearview camera with dynamic gridlines, lane departure warning, and a tire pressure monitoring system. Additionally, the Honda Sensing 360 system might also be available to the buyers.

Some of the expected standout safety features include:

• Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
• Forward Collision Warning System
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Road Departure Mitigation System
• Blind-spot Monitoring System

2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Ford Escape

The competition between the Honda CR-V and Ford Escape has always been stiff. Both vehicles have appealed to the buyers with their capacious cabins and easy-to-go ride quality. But with the 2023 updates, the CR-V might well be the winner in comparison. Not only will Honda’s SUV possess more space after its redesign, but an optional third row of seats will also add versatility to the mix. Additionally, the newer design and feature list will, without a doubt, be better than what Escape currently offers.

2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 might not be the quickest vehicle available in the market today. Yet it remains a comprehensive option that is safe, luxurious, and ergonomic in its build. It is easy to drive and comes with an off-road specific trim for added capabilities. So, it remains in direct contention with its Japanese counterpart. But with its redesign, if Honda is able to overcome the fallacies of an outdated infotainment system and slightly lower towing capacity, we expect the 2023 CR-V to hold the throne in the segment.

2023 Honda CR-V vs 2022 Kia Sorento

With the availability of a third-row of seats, the Honda CR-V will also compete with the likes of the Kia Sorento. However, currently, it is difficult to declare a winner between the two. This is because the 2022 Sorento has been recently updated, and so, it is fairly modern. Even in terms of space, we do not expect a considerable difference between the two SUVs. Consequently, a better decision can be formed when the pricing, trims, and space specifications of the Japanese SUV are known.

If all speculations fall in place, the 2023 Honda CR-V could be a ground-breaking development for the brand. It is expected to come with better engine outputs, a redesigned exterior, and an optional third-row of seats, which will allow it to ace the requirements of the compact SUV class. But despite its changes, the SUV’s price is suspected to remain in a similar ballpark as before. So, by being an accessible option that aims at delivering stunning performances, the new CR-V can be a worthy option. However, if you have an urgent vehicle requirement, even the 2022 MY will suffice your needs.