2026 Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Exterior Design

You can enjoy stylish and practical design whether you pick the 2026 Honda CR-V or 2026 Honda HR-V. While both models share a toned, athletic presence, the front end of the CR-V is a bit more chiseled for a mildly rugged aesthetic, while the HR-V boasts slightly softer lines for greater sophistication. Shared features like standard LED lighting and a one-touch power moonroof lend upscale appeal to either model. However, the CR-V is offered with a number of unique exterior features that may make it a strong contender for you. Among them are a hands-free access power liftgate that makes loading cargo convenient and grippy all-terrain tires for the adventurous drivers who pick the CR-V TrailSport trim.

Shared available exterior features include:

• 17- or 18-in. wheels
• One-touch power moonroof with tilt feature
• Auto on/off LED headlights
• LED taillights
• Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock®
• Heated, power side mirrors with integrated turn indicators
• Rear privacy glass

Exterior features exclusively available on the CR-V include:

• 19-in. wheels
• All-terrain tires
• Hands-free access power tailgate
• Roof rails
• Heated wiper zone

2026 Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Interior Design & Technology

Convenience, comfort, and versatility abound in both the 2026 Honda CR-V and 2026 Honda HR-V. You’ll notice a number of similar or identical features in both models, including cloth or leather seat upholstery, available heated front seats, and available dual-zone automatic climate control. Furthermore, the two models share a standard 9-inch center touchscreen, wireless charging capabilities, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ connectivity.

Beyond their notable similarities, there are several interior and technology differences to consider. The CR-V is offered with a number of premium amenities not offered on the HR-V, including a Bose® sound system, power-adjustable front passenger’s seat, heated steering wheel, and a reclining rear seat. For its part, the HR-V is available with a power-adjustable driver’s seat and an eight-speaker sound system that is crafted for superb performance within its cabin.

Shared available interior and technology features include:

• Cloth or leather seat upholstery
• 60/40 split rear seatback
• Heated front seats
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob
• Automatic-dimming rearview mirror
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 9-in. touchscreen
• 7-in. TFT meter display
• Wireless phone charger

Interior and technology features exclusively available on the CR-V include:

• Ten-way power driver’s seat
• Four-way power front passenger’s seat
• Reclining second-row seat
• Heated steering wheel
• 10.2-in. digital instrument cluster
• Bose sound system with 12 speakers
• Google built-in

Interior and technology features exclusively available on the HR-V include:

• Eight-way power driver’s seat
• 180W audio system with eight speakers

2026 Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Engine Specs

One of the notable differences between the 2026 Honda CR-V and 2026 Honda HR-V is their engine options and performance. Overall, the CR-V offers higher power outputs, higher fuel economy estimates, and towing capability. For up to 204 net system horsepower and up to 43 MPG* in city driving, choose the CR-V two-motor hybrid powertrain. Or, enjoy 190 horsepower, 33 MPG* on the highway, and up to 1,500 pounds of towing capacity with the standard turbocharged gas engine on the CR-V. Across its model lineup, the HR-V is equipped with a 158-horsepower 2.0L four-cylinder gas engine that gets up to 30 MPG** on the highway.

Both models feature a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT) with their gas engines. For enhanced all-wheel drive (AWD) handling and traction over a range of challenging road conditions, equip either SUV with available Real Time AWD™ with Intelligent Control System™. Further control the performance of your SUV with three drive modes — econ, normal, and snow — with the HR-V. Up to five drive modes are available with the CR-V, including individual, sport, normal, econ, and snow modes.

Compare the performance specs for each engine in the following chart.

*28 city/33 highway/30 combined mpg rating for 2WD LX, EX & EX-L trims. 27 city/31 highway/29 combined mpg rating for AWD LX, EX & EX-L trims. 43 city/36 highway/40 combined mpg rating for the 2WD Sport & Sport-L Hybrid trims. 40 city/34 highway/37 combined mpg rating for AWD Sport, Sport-L & Sport Touring Hybrid trims. 38 city/33 highway/35 combined mpg rating for TrailSport Hybrid AWD trim. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery-pack age/condition (hybrid trims) and other factors.

**26 city/32 highway/28 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 25 city/30 highway/27 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.

2026 Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Size & Cargo Space

While the 2026 Honda CR-V and 2026 Honda HR-V are both two-row SUVs, there are several key size differences to consider. Overall, the HR-V is slightly shorter and slimmer than the CR-V. While headroom and front legroom are very similar between the two, you will notice the larger proportions of the CR-V show up when it comes to second-row legroom and available cargo space. Overall, the CR-V provides up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, while the HR-V offers up to 55.1 cubic feet.

Compare the key size differences between the CR-V and HR-V in the following chart.

2026 Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Safety Options & Features

Because peace of mind is a priority, Honda built both the 2026 CR-V and 2026 HR-V with a comparable selection of driver assistance and safety features. The Honda Sensing® is standard no matter which SUV you pick, with features like Collision Mitigation Braking System™ and adaptive cruise control. As you ascend each model’s trim ladder, other similar features like a blind spot information system, parking sensors, and a cross-traffic monitor become available.

Shared available safety features include:

• Honda Sensing® driver assistance technology
  • Collision Mitigation Braking System™
  • Road departure mitigation system
  • Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
  • Lane keeping assist system
  • Forward collision warning
  • Lane departure warning
  • Traffic jam assist
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Driver attention monitor
• Auto high-beam headlights
• Low-speed braking control
• Blind spot information system
• Cross-traffic monitor
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Rearview camera with dynamic guidelines

Which SUV Should You Choose?

Whether you pick the 2026 Honda CR-V or 2026 Honda HR-V, count on premium technology, robust engineering, and a comfortable and versatile cabin. Nevertheless, unique features like a hands-free liftgate, the ability to tow, a highly fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, larger cargo accommodations, and a premium sound system may make the CR-V a more ideal choice for you. On the other hand, the sleek looks and streamlined dimensions of the HR-V may make it ideal for urban drivers. It’s fully equipped with the same standard tech and driver assistance features as the CR-V, and even offers a small advantage in front legroom.

Key reasons to choose the CR-V include:

• Hands-free power liftgate
• 1,500-lb. maximum towing capacity
• Available hybrid engine with higher fuel economy estimates
• Bose sound system
• Up to 76.5 cu.-ft. of cargo space

Key reasons to choose the HR-V include:

• Smaller, more maneuverable overall size
• Same collection of standard and available safety features as CR-V
• Same standard displays and infotainment capability as CR-V
• Slightly more front legroom

To research each model individually, see our CR-V review or HR-V review. Or, set up a test drive at White Allen Honda and take both models out to see their differences for yourself. Our team of Honda pros will be happy to further explain all the differences between the CR-V and HR-V and help you find your ideal Honda model. Start the conversation with our online contact form or by calling us at (937) 220-6386.