What engine does my Honda CR-V have?

The engine in a Honda CR-V depends on the model year and trim. Most newer CR‑Vs use a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, while the CR‑V Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with electric motors. Older generations commonly used a 2.4-liter four-cylinder.

Engine options by generation

Use this guide to identify the most likely engine type for your CR‑V based on its model year and powertrain configuration.

• Non-hybrid CR‑V models from the current generation (roughly 2017 onward) typically use a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4, paired with a CVT.


• CR‑V Hybrid models (introduced in the United States around 2020 and continuing) use a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle inline-4 with two electric motors and an e-CVT.


• Older, non-hybrid CR‑Vs from the pre-2017 era (primarily 2012–2016) used a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with traditional transmissions.

Keep in mind that market variations and mid-year updates can affect exact transmissions or tuning. For absolute certainty, verify with official documentation or a VIN lookup.

How to verify your engine

Follow these steps to confirm the exact engine in your specific CR‑V.

1. Inspect the engine bay: look for the engine cover or under-hood label that states the engine type (for example, “1.5L Turbo” or “2.0L i-VTEC Atkinson”).


2. Check the vehicle’s VIN: locate the 17-character VIN on the driver's door jamb or dashboard. Use a Honda VIN decoder (official site or reputable service) to reveal the engine and powertrain information.


3. Consult the owner's manual and the EPA window sticker or build sheet, which list the exact engine specification for your vehicle.


4. If you’re unsure, contact a Honda dealer with your VIN for a precise verification of the engine code and powertrain.

With the VIN and model year in hand, you’ll be able to confirm your CR‑V’s engine quickly and accurately.

Common engine descriptors you may encounter

Notes on naming and identification

Engine names you’ll see include “1.5L Turbo” for the modern non-hybrid engine and “2.0L Atkinson-cycle” for the hybrid powertrain. The exact wording appears on the engine cover, the owner’s manual, and the window sticker.

Summary

In short, your CR‑V’s engine is tied to its year and trim. The latest non-hybrid models use a 1.5-liter turbo; the hybrid variant uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with electric motors; older non-hybrid models (pre-2017) typically used a 2.4-liter engine. To verify, check the engine itself, review the VIN with a decoder, consult the owner's manual, or ask a Honda dealer with your VIN.

What engine does a Honda CR-V have?

A Honda CR-V has either a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 2.0L two-motor hybrid system, depending on the trim level. The gas engine produces 190 horsepower, while the hybrid powertrain delivers a total system output of 204 horsepower.
 
Engine options

• 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: This is the standard, gas-powered engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. 
• 2.0L Two-Motor Hybrid: This option offers a combined system output of 204 horsepower and is more fuel-efficient. 

Which CR-V to stay away from?

You should be wary of the Honda CR-V models from 2007–2009 and 2017–2019, as these years are frequently cited for significant issues like HVAC failures, engine problems, and electrical glitches. Other models to approach with caution include 2011 (excessive oil consumption) and 2014-2015 (engine vibrations).
 
Years with more reported issues

• 2007–2009: This generation experienced issues with HVAC systems, paint, and airbag malfunctions. 
• 2011: Known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. 
• 2014–2015: Prone to engine vibrations, especially at idle. The 2015 model also had issues with the new CVT transmission. 
• 2017–2019: The first years of the fifth generation had a significant problem with gasoline diluting the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine damage. Some models also reported electrical problems. 

Important considerations

• Engine oil dilution: This was a major issue for the 2017 and 2018 models with the 1.5L turbo engine, as gas could mix with the oil, reducing its lubricating properties. 
• HVAC failures: Common in the 2007 model, with early and expensive AC compressor failures being frequently reported. 
• Vibrations: Specifically, the 2014 and 2015 models had noticeable engine vibrations, particularly at low speeds or idle. 
• Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 model is notorious for this, which can cause major engine problems if ignored. 

Which CR-V has a 2.4 engine?

The third generation CR-V is powered by Honda's standard K-series 2.4 L inline-four engine. In North American markets, this engine's power is rated at 166 hp (124 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 161 lb⋅ft (218 N⋅m) at 4,200 rpm.

How do I tell what engine my CR-V has?

Your Honda CR-V likely has a 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which is the standard engine for most recent models (2017-2024, and likely 2025). However, your vehicle may have a different engine depending on its specific model year and trim. Hybrid models, for instance, come with a 2.0L engine paired with an electric motor. 
Standard engine

• 1.5L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder: This is the most common engine for the CR-V since the 2017 model year.
• It produces approximately 190 horsepower. 

Hybrid engine

• 2.0L Atkinson Engine with Electric Motor: This engine is found in hybrid trims and offers a total system horsepower of around 204 hp. 

How to find your specific engine

• Check your vehicle's trim level:
  • If you have a gas-powered model (like an LX, EX, or EX-L), you have the 1.5L Turbo engine.
  • If you have a hybrid model (like a Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, or Sport Touring Hybrid), you have the 2.0L hybrid engine.
• Look at your owner's manual or window sticker: This documentation will have the specific engine information for your vehicle.