2020 HONDA CR-V HYBRID FIRST IMPRESSIONS; CAN LOWER OCTANE FUEL DAMAGE YOUR CAR? | TALKING CARS #259

EV Channels Review

The 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid is reviewed with mixed first impressions. While it offers a significant fuel economy improvement over the standard CR-V, with an EPA rating of 38 mpg combined compared to 29 mpg for the AWD model, the hybrid powertrain introduces notable drawbacks. Reviewers found the CR-V Hybrid to be noisy, particularly when the gasoline engine kicks in, lacking the smooth, immediate acceleration often associated with hybrid vehicles. The transmission's behavior, described as "old-school CVT" with "rubber banding," and the engine's loudness during acceleration were significant criticisms. The seats in the EX trim were also a point of contention, with one reviewer finding them excessively stiff, deeming them a "definite thumbs down." Despite these issues, positive notes include the brakes feeling close to normal, a roomy interior, good headroom, and standard safety features. However, the overall verdict suggests that the trade-offs in drivability and noise may not be worth the fuel economy gains for many buyers, with one reviewer preferring a Subaru Outback for a similar price point.