Having the same dependable two-row platform from previous years, the 2019 Honda CR-V once again impresses families in categories like performance, connectivity, and safety. From the i-VTEC powertrain to the HondaLink mobile app, this compact crossover SUV offers some of Honda’s top signature technologies.
Trims
- LX: $24,350
- EX: $27,250
- EX-L: $29,750
- Touring: $32,750
Performance
A 2.4L engine block drives the 2019 Honda CR-V base trim. The 184-horsepower peak output is achieved by this I-4 powertrain. When the naturally aspirated engine revs at 3,900 rpm, it makes 180 pound-feet of torque.
An I-4 engine with a 1.5L displacement powers the EX and above levels. When the tachometer indicator exceeds 5,600 rpm, the turbo engine unleashes up to 190 horsepower. A 2,000-rpm reading is required for this compact powertrain to produce 179 lb-ft of torque.
Regular fuel is forced into the CR-V’s powertrain by direct injection. This crossover SUV rarely carries out wasteful combustion because the Eco Assist technology monitors the process under the hood. You’ll also appreciate the quiet mechanics from the engine block, which is silenced by the Active Noise Cancellation.
Every CR-V trim is eligible for an upgrade to the Real Time All-Wheel Drive. Treacherous terrains and poor weather won’t impede this versatile drivetrain system. The Intelligent Control System creates an optimum division of torque between all four wheels. Whether you stick with front-wheel-drive or opt for the AWD, a CVT system is ready to generate on-demand gear speeds. You should activate the Sport Mode for a firm and crisp feel of the gearbox and steering.
Fuel Efficiency
When rolling on FWD, the CR-V base model gets 32 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city. An upgrade to AWD lowers the highway and city fuel economy by only one mpg.
The EX and above editions with FWD are rated at 34 mpg on the highway and 28 mpg in the city. When fitted with AWD, these models lose 1 mpg on the highway and on urban roads.
Every trim has a 14.0-gallon fuel tank that holds regular unleaded gas.
Infotainment
A 5.0-inch LCD screen comes standard in the 2019 Honda CR-V base model. This simple infotainment system has the HandsFreeLink function that’s integrated into the conventional Bluetooth system. Audio streaming is another notable feature in the car’s Bluetooth portal. A 160-watt sound system with four speakers is standard in the LX trim. Additionally, the Speed-Sensitive Volume Compensation automatically adjusts the audio system when you depress the accelerator pedal.
The EX and above models are equipped with a WVGA display that’s 2.0 inches bigger than the LX’s monitor. Electrostatic technology makes the touchscreen more responsive than ever before. The larger infotainment system also has several other upgrades, such as the HondaLink app. You have access to other universal mobile platforms, like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SMS Text Message Function works smoothly with Android phones and iPhones.
Producing good acoustics, a six-speaker audio system is installed in the EX model. Having a similar design, the EX-L’s sound system gets two extra speakers. Additionally, the Touring version boasts nine speakers that deliver even better sound quality. Pandora and SiriusXM Satellite Radio work well with the three sound systems mentioned above. However, only the most expensive trim has HD Radio channels.
GPS navigation with satellite-linked hardware is exclusively installed in the CR-V Touring. You can monitor local highways on the HD Digital Traffic service. A digital compass also appears on the seven-inch display of this high-grade model. Rated at 2.5 amps, dual USB charging ports are accessible in the second row and the center console in the front row includes a 1.5-amp USB interface.
Safety
As an IIHS Top Safety Pick, the 2019 Honda CR-V greatly appeals to families. This compact crossover SUV has “Good” scores in all available crashworthiness categories, such as roof strength and moderate front overlap. In the headlights and child seat anchors categories, this car gets “Acceptable” grades. Additionally, a “Superior” score is given to the vehicle for front crash prevention.
Standard in the CR-V EX and higher trim levels, the Honda Sensing bundle gives drivers a heightened sense of alertness on the road. Don’t enter panic mode if you’re at risk of getting into a crash, the Collision Mitigation Braking is ready to pump the brakes with maximum force. Plus, the Road Departure Mitigation governs the steering system when the car suddenly goes off course. Additionally, the Honda Sensing suite issues warnings for crashes and lane departures.
Some of the accident-prevention features in the CR-V aren’t integrated into the signature bundle. For instance, the Cross-Traffic Monitor which enhances your judgment for handling the car in reverse. You could also use the multi-angle rearview camera to back up with more confidence. Optimized for trips at night, the Auto High-Beam Headlights are installed on this Honda crossover SUV.
Regardless of the drivetrain that moves the CR-V, the Vehicle Stability Assist offers substantial leverage in adverse conditions. The VSA helps you regain control of the steering system when the wheels slip. With further overrides by the classic Traction Control technology, the CR-V will navigate wet roads with stability.
Having the i-SRS design, the CR-V’s front airbags guarantee superb protection. Front side airbags with the SmartVent design are standard in this Honda. An automatic tensioning system adjusts the three-point seat belts in both rows. A reminder system for all seat belts also appears in the instrument cluster.
Final Thoughts
The 2019 Honda CR-V makes excellent impressions on families looking for an SUV with great fuel economy, modern digital technology, and reliable active safety. Efficient engineering and affordable utility are the highlights of this five-seat vehicle.