First Drive: 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid Boosts Fuel Economy With Electrification

It's a new option in the growing world of hybrid SUVs

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

April 7, 2020

The CR-V is among the most popular compact SUVs available, and that’s understandable. It’s roomy, has an impressive assortment of advanced safety features that come standard, gets good fuel economy, and fits five adults comfortably.

For 2020, Honda has expanded the CR-V lineup by adding a hybrid, the first electrified version of this SUV. It joins the new Ford Escape Hybrid as another challenger to the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which is now in its second generation.

Ford returned to the small hybrid SUV category this year with the 2020 Escape Hybrid. That automaker offered hybrid versions of the Escape from 2005 to 2007, and again from 2008 through 2012.

What we bought: 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid EX
Powertrain: 212-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine + electric motor; continuously variable transmission; all-wheel drive
MSRP: $30,260
Destination fee: $1,120
Total cost: $31,380

Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.

Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.