The Honda CR-V has long been a dominant force in the compact SUV segment, and the refreshed 2020 Honda CR-V arrives to solidify its reign. Building on its legacy as America’s best-selling crossover for over two decades, the 2020 model introduces a suite of enhancements, from a more assertive exterior design to a newly standard turbocharged engine for the popular LX trim and the inclusion of Honda Sensing® technologies across all models. This updated CR-V isn’t just a refresh; it’s a strategic evolution designed to meet the evolving needs and desires of modern drivers.
The 2020 CR-V enters the market with a starting MSRP of $25,050 for the front-wheel-drive LX variant, a modest increase of $600 that belies the significant upgrades under the hood and within its safety features. The most notable powertrain update is the adoption of the responsive and fuel-efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged engine as standard in the LX trim, previously exclusive to higher trims. Looking ahead, Honda is set to expand the CR-V family with an all-new hybrid-electric model slated to join the lineup early next year, promising even greater efficiency and performance.
Exterior and Interior Refinements
The 2020 Honda CR-V boasts a refreshed exterior that exudes a more sophisticated and rugged appeal. Designers have implemented noticeable changes to the front and rear fascias, including a redesigned front bumper and grille, accompanied by updated headlight designs that contribute to a more contemporary look.
For those opting for the EX and EX-L trims, newly designed alloy wheels further enhance the vehicle’s aesthetic. The top-of-the-line Touring grade receives even more distinction with larger 19-inch wheels and tires, amplifying its commanding presence. Honda also introduces a trio of fresh exterior colors for the 2020 CR-V – Radiant Red Metallic, Sonic Gray Pearl, and Aegean Blue Pearl – giving buyers more personalization options.
Stepping inside, the 2020 Honda CR-V cabin maintains its reputation for spaciousness and technological integration. A redesigned center console takes center stage, featuring repositioned USB ports for enhanced accessibility and a more versatile storage layout. For the premium Touring trim, new additions include a heated steering wheel for added comfort in colder climates and a convenient wireless smartphone charging pad, catering to the connected lifestyles of today’s drivers.
Performance and Powertrain Enhancements
Under the skin, the 2020 Honda CR-V sees a significant mechanical upgrade with the 1.5-liter turbocharged direct-injected engine now powering all gasoline models, including the LX trim. This engine replaces the previous 2.4-liter naturally aspirated unit in the LX, delivering a notable power increase of 6 horsepower. More importantly, it provides a flatter torque curve, offering 179 lb.-ft. of torque available from 2000 to 5000 rpm, compared to the previous engine’s 180 lb.-ft. at 3900 rpm. This translates to enhanced responsiveness and improved driving dynamics across a wider range of driving conditions. Furthermore, the turbocharged engine boosts fuel efficiency, achieving a higher EPA rating by 2 mpg in city, highway, and combined cycles.
The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that features Honda G-Shift control logic for smoother and more responsive gear changes. The CR-V is available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with the Real Time AWD system providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
Standard Honda Sensing® Safety Suite
A crucial advancement for the 2020 Honda CR-V is the standardization of Honda Sensing® safety and driver-assistive technologies across all trim levels. Previously, Honda Sensing was limited to higher trims. Now, even the base LX model benefits from this comprehensive safety suite, underscoring Honda’s commitment to safety for all drivers.
Honda Sensing® encompasses a range of advanced safety features, including:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and pedestrian sensing: Helps to mitigate frontal collisions by providing alerts and automatic braking.
- Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Detects lane departures and provides steering and braking assistance to keep the vehicle in its lane.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with low-speed follow: Maintains a set following interval behind detected vehicles and can bring the CR-V to a stop and resume speed in stop-and-go traffic.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Provides subtle steering adjustments to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
In addition to Honda Sensing®, further available safety technologies include Blind Spot Information (BSI), Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and Auto High Beam headlights, providing an even greater degree of driver awareness and safety. The 2020 Honda CR-V is engineered with Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and is projected to achieve top safety ratings, including a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the NHTSA and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the IIHS.
Trim Levels and Key Features
The 2020 Honda CR-V is offered in four trim levels: LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring, each building upon the features of the previous trim to offer a variety of equipment and luxury levels to suit different preferences and budgets.
CR-V LX: As the base trim, the LX now includes the 1.5-liter turbo engine and Honda Sensing as standard. It also features automatic climate control, a multi-angle rearview camera, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
CR-V EX: Building on the LX, the EX trim adds features like LED fog lights, a one-touch moonroof, blind spot information, 18-inch wheels, an 8-way power driver’s seat, a 7-inch Display Audio system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, heated front seats, and more.
CR-V EX-L: The EX-L trim enhances comfort with leather seating surfaces, a power tailgate, a 4-way power passenger seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and other premium touches.
CR-V Touring: The top-of-the-line Touring trim includes all the features of the EX-L and adds 19-inch alloy wheels, a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, updated LED headlights, Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™, a hands-free access power tailgate, and a premium audio system.
Conclusion
The 2020 Honda CR-V represents a significant step forward for this iconic crossover. With its enhanced styling, more powerful and efficient turbocharged engine now standard on the LX trim, and the widespread availability of Honda Sensing® technologies, the 2020 CR-V is poised to maintain its leadership in the competitive compact SUV segment. As Honda prepares to introduce the hybrid variant, the CR-V lineup is set to become even more compelling, offering a diverse range of options to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of drivers seeking a reliable, safe, and versatile vehicle.
For more in-depth information, including detailed specifications and high-resolution images, please visit hondanews.com. Consumer information is available at automobiles.honda.com.
