2019 Honda CR-V Hybrid Complete Review And Key Insights

The 2019 Honda CR-V Hybrid marks Honda’s entry into the European hybrid SUV market, combining a proven spacious design with an advanced petrol-electric powertrain. This model delivers a balance of efficiency, comfort, and versatility, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. With options for front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), it caters to various driving needs while promising lower emissions and better fuel economy than traditional petrol versions.

Powertrain and Performance Breakdown

At the heart of the 2019 CR-V Hybrid is Honda’s i-MMD (Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive) system, featuring a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle i-VTEC petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery pack under the boot floor. The petrol engine produces 145 PS (143 hp), while the main electric motor delivers 184 PS, resulting in a combined system output of 184 PS. Torque figures are even more impressive: 175 Nm from the engine and 315 Nm from the electric motor, yielding a total of 550 Nm.

This setup uses a fixed-gear transmission, allowing seamless transitions between three drive modes: EV Drive (pure electric), Hybrid Drive (engine assists electric motor), and Engine Drive (direct engine power). In urban settings, EV Drive dominates, with Honda claiming up to 82% usage in city driving. On motorways, Engine Drive takes over more, around 61% on test routes. Real-world testing shows the system shuffling efficiently between modes, providing smooth acceleration despite a 0-62 mph time of 9.2 seconds for AWD models (slightly quicker at 8.8 seconds for FWD).

Performance feels brisk in everyday scenarios, especially for overtaking, thanks to the instant electric torque. However, full-throttle acceleration can get noisy and revvy, with some reviewers noting a harsh sound from the reduction gear and a sensation akin to clutch slip due to the CVT-like operation. Top speed is electronically limited to 112 mph (180 km/h).

Design and Exterior Enhancements

The fifth-generation CR-V sports a refreshed exterior with broader wheel arches, sharper bonnet contours, and Honda’s signature front grille and headlight design. This gives it a more muscular, sophisticated look compared to predecessors. Ground clearance improves to 192 mm on AWD hybrids (up 27 mm), enhancing light off-road capability, though the system remains front-biased, sending torque to the rear only when slip is detected.

AWD models excel in wet or dry roads without drama, but true off-road prowess is limited. Wheel sizes vary by trim, contributing to its planted stance. Overall, the design prioritizes practicality over sportiness, appealing to families seeking a reliable daily driver.

Interior Comfort and Space Optimization

Inside, the CR-V Hybrid impresses with increased spaciousness and premium-like quality. Cabin materials feel solid, with good noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) suppression, creating a quieter, more refined environment than older models. A new chassis that’s lighter and more rigid aids this, paired with suspension tuned for comfort.

Boot space measures 497 litres, expandable with folding rear seats. Legroom and headroom are generous for five passengers, though no seven-seat option exists—a drawback for larger families. Ride quality shines, gliding over speed bumps and uneven roads effortlessly.

• Key interior pros: Spacious cabin, comfortable seating, ample storage
• Tech highlights: Touchscreen infotainment, physical climate controls, steering wheel buttons
• Drawbacks: Fiddly controls, ventilation adjustments via screen

The infotainment system, while packed with features, draws criticism for being dated and less intuitive, especially compared to rivals.

Fuel Efficiency and Real-World Economy

Honda quotes NEDC figures of 51.4 mpg combined for AWD (53.3 mpg FWD) and CO2 emissions of 126 g/km (120 g/km FWD). WLTP estimates around 40.9 mpg. Real-world tests vary: one review averaged 42.0 mpg over a week (36.8-45.7 mpg range), while others note it’s decent but trails rivals like the Toyota RAV4, which runs more in EV mode.

Factors like driving style and conditions influence results, with urban efficiency strongest due to frequent EV mode use. At 40 mph, over 50% EV Drive; at 62 mph, about one-third. This makes it an economical petrol alternative, though not class-leading.

Economy Comparison Table

Note: Figures from tester experiences; actual results vary.

Driving Dynamics and Handling

The CR-V Hybrid prioritizes comfort over excitement. Suspension delivers a plush ride, absorbing imperfections well, while steering is precise but not engaging. It’s refined on motorways and composed in corners, though not sporty. AWD adds confidence in slippery conditions without feeling rear-driven most times.

Braking is strong, blending regenerative and friction systems smoothly. Overall, it’s a sensible, easy-to-live-with SUV that “gets on with the job” without thrills.

Trims, Pricing, and Practicality

Starting at around £35,570 OTR for AWD SR trim (tested at £36,120), it slots into insurance groups 22-24. Standard kit includes adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and Honda Sensing safety suite. Towing is limited to 750 kg braked. Warranty: 3 years/90,000 miles. Reliability is excellent, with high resale value noted by experts.

No diesel option post-Dieselgate era, but the hybrid fills that gap effectively, proving smoother and torquier than CVT petrol variants.

Safety and Reliability Ratings

Honda’s Sensing package—autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise, traffic sign recognition—earns top marks. RepairPal rates it 4.5/5 for reliability, ranking #6 among compact SUVs. Seven recalls noted, but overall, it’s a dependable choice with strong resale.

Rivals and Market Position

Against the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the CR-V offers similar space but lags in EV usage and economy. It’s more refined than petrol CR-Vs and beats some on torque. Vs. Nissan Qashqai or Hyundai Tucson hybrids, it excels in space and ride. Lacks seven seats, unlike some.

• Strengths over rivals: Torque, comfort, interior space
• Weaknesses: Infotainment, EV time, noise under load

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2019 Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD or FWD?

Available in both; AWD suits varied conditions, FWD offers slightly better economy.

How does the fuel economy compare to petrol CR-V?

Significantly better, with real-world ~42 mpg vs. lower for pure petrol.

What’s the boot space like?

497 litres, expanding with 60/40 split-folding seats.

Is it good for towing?

Max 750 kg braked—adequate for light trailers, not heavy loads.

Any seven-seater option?

No, five seats only.

Final Thoughts on Value

The 2019 CR-V Hybrid is a practical, comfortable SUV with efficient hybrid tech that shines in daily use. While not the most exciting or EV-heavy, its space, ride, and reliability make it a top pick for families ditching diesel. Improvements in refinement position it well, though infotainment and noise hold it back from perfection.