The 2026 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that comfortably seats five. It has a reputation as a confident and capable SUV that plays to its strengths, with excellent use of interior space and incredible fuel economy figures. It has a large following in the US due to a variety of factors, including its attractive pricing, its standard comfort and tech features, its sophisticated styling, and Honda's knack for manufacturing long-lasting, low-maintenance vehicles. The CR-V can handle anything from the daily commute to a road trip, so if you're looking for an upgrade for your family's main ride, look to the 2026 Honda CR-V
Many drivers have been Honda fans for a long time, and the latest CR-V has only further cemented their love and affection for this Japanese brand. Whether you started your Honda journey with a smaller model, like the Accord or Civic, or you're just now entertaining the idea of trying out a Honda for your next purchase, you're in for a treat with the 2026 CR-V. Not only is it an excellent option for modern drivers, but this latest version comes with more standard tech and has a new adventurous trim level available. There's nowhere to go but up when you get behind the wheel of a Honda CR-V!
The Honda CR-V: An SUV for All
The CR-V entered the American market in 1997. Honda already enjoyed a large following in North America, and the CR-V arrived at the perfect time to grow Honda's fanbase even further. The late 1990s saw a huge boom in the SUV market, and the CR-V has seen its trendiness rise ever since. Six generations later, the CR-V may look a little different, but it remains at heart the same as it always was: a versatile, efficient, comfortable SUV that's ready to take you anywhere you want to go. With enough room for a small family as well as cargo space for everyone's necessities, it's no wonder that the CR-V is a staple of urban and suburban life.
Industry professionals and consumers alike have said that the Honda CR-V is an immaculate compact crossover; it strikes a beautiful balance, weighing practicality and efficiency with agility and comfort, and it can be personalized so that every driver has an SUV that suits or reflects their lifestyle. This versatility is one quality highly sought by modern drivers, since many spend considerable amounts of time in their vehicles every day, running errands, commuting, traveling around town, as well as making weekend trips and longer road trips.
New Year, More Standard Tech
This year's CR-V has some big changes, including additional standard tech. To the already impressive list of standard tech features, Honda has included wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility, a wireless charging pad, and an even larger touchscreen than previous models had. The larger touchscreen is easier to read and navigate, benefiting drivers who don't want to equip their glasses just to comprehend the text on their infotainment center. Thanks to wireless charging and compatibility with the two largest phone manufacturers, you'll be able to navigate mile after mile with no problem.
While many vehicles can be had with these features, they aren't always standard, so Honda's addition is significant and marks it as an industry leader. This inclusion will benefit all drivers in the long run since other automotive companies will follow suit to remain competitive. However, there is another difference between Honda's tech and other companies' tech, in that Honda has a reputation for high quality and longevity, so if you're looking for a vehicle with modern tech features that will work for a long, long time, the Honda CR-V is a confident option for you.
The Model's New TrailSport Trim
Emulating larger Honda SUVs, like the Pilot and Passport, the CR-V is preparing to take your adventures off-road with the TrailSport trim. Its rugged build and all-terrain tires will take your explorations to the next level, and it also comes exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, denoting it as the "TrailSport Hybrid" in the 2026 CR-V's official trim lineup.
This trim also boasts enhanced traction management for a variety of off-road conditions, which will elevate your experience even further. If you've been toying with the idea of getting a family SUV that can double as a weekend explorer, the 2026 Honda CR-V should be one of your first considerations. It has everything you need to make your weekend getaways, camping trips, and outdoor explorations great.
Other TrailSport trim features include a power liftgate, all-season floor mats, and ambient lighting to make your adventures even more safe, comfortable, and fun. You can go anywhere and do anything when you have the CR-V at your side. With the new TrailSport trim, you'll get the best of both worlds: urban and suburban practicality, and off-road ruggedness and capability. It's the perfect combination for an adventurous family that's itching to explore. If that sounds like you, the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid is worth looking into.
Accolades & Awards for 2026
Honda's latest CR-V has also received recognition from the industry for many years, garnering a variety of awards, including Car & Driver's "10 Best Trucks & SUVs" for multiple years.[a] The CR-V remains a steadfast example of Honda's commitment to automotive excellence, which is why so many people are still driving this model today. You, too, can drive this award-winning vehicle with confidence, knowing that it is built to exceed expectations and will continue to impress year after year.
The 2026 Honda CR-V builds upon the same great platform of previous years. It's a vehicle you can rely on, and you'll reap that legacy if you purchase the latest Honda CR-V. With such a decorated history, it's no wonder people are drawn to the CR-V; it has everything you could want in a family vehicle, with accolades to back it up. Whether you've driven a Honda before or you're just now considering buying one, the brand's 2026 CR-V is one of its best creations in recent years.
Enhancements for an Iconic SUV
Honda's latest CR-V continues the brand's tradition of chasing excellence, adding enhancements to an already impressive SUV. This will only heighten the driving experience and enjoyment that drivers get when behind the wheel of the CR-V, with a new trim level to consider, as well as additional standard tech features like a wireless charging pad and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The larger infotainment center is also a welcome bonus for many drivers.
Now is the time to make the switch if you've been thinking of getting a new SUV. The 2026 Honda CR-V is a powerhouse of a family-oriented compact model that has plenty of room for passengers and cargo alike. It's comfortable and clean, with plenty of tech features to make sure everyone is entertained, safe, and satisfied, no matter how long the ride is. With the new TrailSport trim, you can even venture off-road, opening up new opportunities for adventure. Honda's latest CR-V is the best version of this model yet. Don't wait to try it out; why not go for a test drive and see what it's all about?
[a] The Honda CR-V was named among the "10 Best Trucks & SUVs" by Car & Driver in 2023, 2024, and 2025. For more information, visit Car & Driver at www.caranddriver.com. Car & Driver is a part of Hearst Digital Media.