Honda CR-V vs. The Competition

Honda CR-V vs. The Competition

The Honda CR-V is an affordable compact crossover with sleek style and tech-forward features. It offers the flexibility of a compact body style with enough space for cargo, making it a great family vehicle. But how does it compare against popular favorites like the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, or Nissan Rogue? You'll find that some of the biggest strengths of the Honda CR-V are in the amount of cargo space, efficient engine configuration, and a generous list of high-tech features at a more affordable price point. Our experts at Honda of Westport agree that the Honda CR-V should be your next SUV. Here's why:

Honda CR-V vs. Toyota Rav4

The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are closely matched in performance, technology, and advanced safety systems. The Honda CR-V has a smaller 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and front- or all-wheel drive. The Toyota RAV4 has a larger 2.5-liter engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite the RAV4 making 13 more horsepower, the Honda CR-V clocks in a faster zero to 60 mph time.

The biggest difference, and possibly more useful for drivers interested in a compact SUV, between the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 is the cargo space. The Honda CR-V has an adjustable load floor, which offers a generous amount of cargo space that expands with the rear seats folded. There is more space in the Honda CR-V than in the RAV4.

Honda CR-V vs. Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester is slightly larger than the Honda CR-V, but that doesn't translate to more cargo space. The Honda CR-V offers more cargo space, and its smaller engine is more powerful, producing more horsepower compared to the Subaru Forester's larger 2.5-liter, 182-horsepower engine with a standard continuously variable transmission.

The Subaru Forester also has all-wheel drive standard across the lineup, so there is no option for a more affordable front-wheel drive option for drivers who don't need all-wheel drive capabilities. While the entry-level Subaru Forester is a great bargain with the inclusion of all-wheel drive, the best-equipped top model of the Honda CR-V is more affordable than the fanciest Subaru Forester trim level.

Honda CR-V vs. Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is also slightly larger than the Honda CR-V, but the CR-V is the winner when it comes to max cargo capacity. Surprisingly, the Nissan Rogue offers a smaller turbocharged three-cylinder engine that makes about nine more horsepower than the Honda CR-V. However, the performance difference is negligible. The Rogue also offers a CVT with standard front-wheel drive and the option for all-wheel drive.

The Nissan Rogue offers impressive technology, starting with a standard eight-inch touchscreen with a Google-based interface. It offers some of the same amenities as the Honda CR-V, like Apple CarPlay© and Android Auto™ integration. Both vehicles offer optional upgrades like a premium sound system and smartphone charging. However, the Honda CR-V offers more standard driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control, which is a more costly upgrade than the Nissan Rogue.