Honda is joining Toyota’s lead in offering the high-performance version of its CR-V compact crossover not with a turbocharged engine, but with an electrified one instead.

For markets such as the U.S. and Europe, Honda has finally shoehorned its two-motor hybrid system. Similar to the one found in the Accord Hybrid, the system has been improved in the CR-V Hybrid to give it more EV-only range.


Operating without the need for a conventional automatic transmission, the two-motor hybrid-electric powertrain (i-MMD) combines a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine with an electric motor for a combined 212 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque. Honda claims a 0-100 km/h time of around 8.8 seconds, a top speed of 180 km/h, and get this, an 18.86 km/L city/highway combined figure.

The two-motor hybrid system uses a propulsion motor and a generator/starter motor built with a patented Honda design that doesn’t use magnets with heavy rare-earth metals, reducing magnet cost and weight. The system manages the power delivery between each component and seamlessly shifts CR-V Hybrid through three distinct drive modes: EV Drive, Hybrid Drive, and Engine Drive, automatically selecting the best mode for the conditions with no input from the driver.


The CR-V Hybrid is distinguished from the rest of the CR-V line-up by its unique front and rear styling cues that include Hybrid badging on the grille, front fenders, and tailgate; hybrid-exclusive 5-lamp LED fog lights; and a unique rear bumper design.