2024 Honda CR-V Review

The Honda CR-V has steadily grown into a popular choice among Kenyan SUV buyers, blending reliability, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. As demand for stylish yet practical crossovers continues to rise, especially in the urban landscape, The Honda CR-V was first introduced in 1995, with the first-generation (RD1–RD3) model in production from 1995 to 2001. The second-generation (RD4–RD9) followed from 2001 to 2006, featuring a more refined design and improved features. The third generation (RE/RM) debuted in 2006 and ran until 2011, with a more modern crossover aesthetic. The fourth generation (RM) was produced from 2011 to 2016 and saw significant tech upgrades. The fifth generation (RW/RT), which ran from 2016 to 2022, introduced turbocharged engines and hybrid options. The sixth generation (RS), the current 2023 model, began production in 2022 and continues to the present, featuring a bold new design and a host of modern enhancements.

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Detailed Review

The Honda CR-V has steadily grown into a popular choice among Kenyan SUV buyers, blending reliability, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. As demand for stylish yet practical crossovers continues to rise, especially in the urban landscape, The Honda CR-V was first introduced in 1995, with the first-generation (RD1–RD3) model in production from 1995 to 2001. The second-generation (RD4–RD9) followed from 2001 to 2006, featuring a more refined design and improved features. The third generation (RE/RM) debuted in 2006 and ran until 2011, with a more modern crossover aesthetic. The fourth generation (RM) was produced from 2011 to 2016 and saw significant tech upgrades. The fifth generation (RW/RT), which ran from 2016 to 2022, introduced turbocharged engines and hybrid options. The sixth generation (RS), the current 2023 model, began production in 2022 and continues to the present, featuring a bold new design and a host of modern enhancements.

2023 Honda CR-V Grades

EX: This base trim includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, push-button start, and Honda Sensing safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist.
EX-L: Adds leather-trimmed seats, a power tailgate, 9-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless phone charger, and dual-zone climate control.
Sport Hybrid: Combines the hybrid powertrain with a sportier design including 18-inch gloss black wheels, black exterior trim, and roof rails. It also includes keyless entry and heated front seats.
Sport Touring Hybrid: The top trim, featuring AWD standard, 19-inch wheels, a Bose 12-speaker audio system, navigation, hands-free tailgate, and a power panoramic sunroof.

Honda CR-V Z This grade features leather upholstery, heated front seats, power windows, Bluetooth connectivity, a 12-volt power outlet, a power liftgate, power-adjustable driver’s seat, 17-inch alloy wheels, Apple Car Play & Android Auto, front & rear parking sensors, and a lane departure warning.
Honda CR-V G – This grade boasts a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system embedded with Apple Car Play & Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, LED headlights & daytime running lights, lane departure warning, a rear-cross traffic alert, and parking sensors.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The interior of the 2023 Honda CR-V takes a significant leap forward with a clean, horizontal dashboard layout inspired by the latest Civic. A 7- or 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, sits neatly atop the dash, accompanied by a fully digital or part-digital driver’s display. Materials feel more premium than before, with soft-touch plastics, metal accents, and available leather upholstery adding a refined touch. The cabin is airy and uncluttered, with great outward visibility.

With a longer wheelbase (2700 mm), the CR-V offers excellent legroom for both front and rear passengers. The front seats are well-bolstered and supportive for long drives, while the rear seats recline and slide for added comfort. Rear passengers enjoy ample knee and headroom, making it one of the roomiest cabins in its segment. A flat rear floor also improves comfort for the middle passenger.

Cabin Storage

The CR-V excels in cabin practicality. Large door bins can hold bottles and miscellaneous items with ease. The centre console features an adjustable storage tray, deep cubby space, and dual cupholders. There’s also a dedicated wireless charging pad in higher trims. Rear passengers benefit from map pockets, centre armrest cup holders, and functional door pockets, although these are narrower than the front.

Boot Space
The 2023 Honda CR-V offers a spacious 1,028 litres of boot space with the rear seats up (in U.S. spec), one of the best in its class. The load floor is low and wide, with a hands-free power tailgate in higher trims. Folding the rear seats expands the capacity to over 2,000 litres, accommodating large items and extended trips with ease.

2023 Honda CR-V Exterior

The 2023 CR-V sports a more rugged and mature look compared to its predecessor. A large, upright grille, slim LED headlights, and sculpted body panels give it a bold road presence. The longer hood and flatter roofline enhance its SUV stance. Higher trims feature 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels and LED tail lights with a distinctive L-shaped design. Overall, the look is more cohesive and upscale, aligning it more with premium crossovers.

Ground Clearance: 8.2 inches (208 mm)

Safety Features

The 2023 CR-V comes equipped with Honda Sensing as standard, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Traffic Jam Assist. Additional features include front, side, and curtain airbags, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a multi-angle rearview camera, and a Driver Attention Monitor.

2023 Honda CR-V Fuel Consumption

1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine:

CVT Automatic Transmission: Approximately 7.6 litres/100 km (13.2 km/l)

2.0-litre hybrid engine:

eCVT: Approximately 5.5 litres/100 km (18.2 km/l)

2023 Honda CR-V Acceleration

1.5L Turbo (FWD): 0–100 km/h in approximately 8.5 seconds
2.0L Hybrid (AWD): 0–100 km/h in approximately 7.9 seconds

Fuel Tank Capacity: 53 litres

Service Intervals

Minor Service – After every 5,000km, requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Engine
Major Service – after every 15,000km, requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads(If available), ATF Oil, Engine Oil, ATF Filter

Spare Parts and Availability

Honda parts are readily available in Kenya, especially in major towns. The CR-V’s parts are durable and widely stocked.

Stability And Handling

The CR-V offers confident handling for its size. The suspension is tuned for comfort but delivers composed performance even on twisty roads. Ride quality is plush, with minimal harshness over rough surfaces. Steering is light for city use, with decent weight at higher speeds. The AWD system (in hybrid and higher trims) offers improved traction on slippery roads and mild off-road trails.

Reliability

The CR-V has a longstanding reputation for dependability. Its 1.5L turbo engine and hybrid system are both well-tested and have proven durable with routine maintenance. Electronics are sophisticated but not overly complex, ensuring long-term reliability.

Resale Value: Good

2023 Honda CR-V Competitors:

The 2023 Honda CR-V competes in the midsize SUV segment against rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Nissan X-Trail.

What we like about the 2023 Honda CR-V

Spacious and upscale interior with premium touches
Refined ride quality and excellent comfort for long drives
Strong fuel economy, especially with the hybrid variant
Comprehensive Honda Sensing safety suite standard across all trims
Massive boot space (over 1,000 litres with seats up)

What we don’t like

Turbo engine can feel laggy under sudden acceleration
Higher trims priced close to premium-brand SUVs

Conclusion

The 2023 Honda CR-V remains one of the most well-rounded midsize SUVs on the market. With its spacious and comfortable interior, solid fuel economy, and a long list of standard safety features, it excels as a family-friendly daily driver. While it may lack some visual flair or sporty performance, its practicality, reliability, and strong resale value make it a top choice for buyers who prioritize substance over flash. Whether in urban commutes or highway cruising, the CR-V continues to deliver where it matters most.

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