Updated Honda CR-V Adds Tech, Trims Engine Offerings

Honda Motor Co.’s refreshed CR-V compact crossover is getting more standard safety features but will eliminate one of its two engine options.

Due at U.S. dealerships this week, the 2020 model will be base priced at $26,100. That’s a $600 increase over the 2019 CR-V.

Styling updates include a redesigned front fascia, blackened chrome grille and new headlights. The interior also has been freshened with a redesigned center console and more storage compartments.

All trim levels now will come with Honda’s Sensing safety suite. The package includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist and forward collision warning with pedestrian sensing capability. Blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic monitoring and automatic high beams are optional.

The lone engine will be a turbocharged 1.5-liter four banger, which has a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rating of 30 mg and makes 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. Honda no longer will offer the entry-level 2.4-liter 4-cylinder mill, which is slightly less powerful and less efficient than the turbo-4.

Next year, Honda will bring the CR-V Hybrid variant to the U.S. That vehicle, which debuted in Europe earlier this year, teams a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors.

The CR-V is Honda’s bestselling model. Honda says it has sold more than 5 million of the vehicles in the U.S. since introducing the nameplate 22 years ago.