What gas does the Honda CR-V use?

The Honda CR-V runs on gasoline (petrol) in its standard configurations. A hybrid variant uses a gasoline engine paired with electric motors, but there is no diesel option or plug-in CR-V in the current lineup.

Across markets, fuel choices are tied to the trim and drivetrain you choose. This article outlines the basic fuel types, recommended fuel grades, and what to expect if you’re shopping for a CR-V in different regions.

Gasoline-Only versus Hybrid: what's on offer

Here are the main powertrain configurations you are likely to encounter when evaluating a CR-V.

• Gasoline-powered CR-V: The standard model uses petrol/gasoline and relies on a traditional internal-combustion engine. It generally runs on regular unleaded gasoline.


• CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV): The hybrid variant combines a gasoline engine with electric motor(s) for efficiency improvements. It recharges its battery through the engine and braking; it is not a plug-in hybrid and still uses regular unleaded gasoline.

In practice, choosing between these options affects fuel economy and driving feel, but both configurations rely on gasoline as the primary energy source with the hybrid adding electric assistance.

Fuel grades and octane guidance

Fuel-grade requirements can vary by region, so here’s a general guide to octane expectations and what to confirm in your owner's manual.

• United States and Canada: Regular unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 87 (AKI) or higher is appropriate for CR-V engines. Using higher-octane fuel doesn’t typically yield meaningful gains in efficiency or performance for most CR-V trims.


• Europe and the United Kingdom: Petrol grades are typically listed in RON terms; a minimum around 95 RON is common for many engines, with higher-octane fuels available in the market. Always check the specific minimum octane requirement in the local manual for your exact engine.


• Other markets: Follow the octane requirements published in your regional owner’s manual. In general, CR-V engines are designed for regular unleaded fuels available in the region, with the manual providing the definitive guidance.

Bottom line: use the fuel grade specified in your manual. In many regions, regular unleaded 87 is acceptable, but some engines may require higher-octane fuel depending on market and trim.

Plug-in status and regional differences

Questions often arise about diesel options or plug-in capability. Here is the current status across markets.

• No diesel option in the current global CR-V lineup: Honda has not offered a diesel CR-V in most markets of late, focusing on gasoline and hybrid powertrains instead.


• No plug-in CR-V variant: As of 2024–2025, there is no official plug-in (PHEV) CR-V in the global lineup. The CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV) is a non-plug-in hybrid that relies on onboard generation and braking to charge its battery.

For shoppers, this means the CR-V you buy will either be gasoline-only or a non-plug-in hybrid, with no diesel or PHEV options in the current lineup.

Summary

The Honda CR-V primarily uses gasoline. There are two main variants: a gasoline-only version and a gasoline-electric hybrid (e:HEV) that is not plug-in. There is no diesel or plug-in CR-V available in the current lineup, and fuel recommendations vary by region, so always consult your owner’s manual for the exact octane requirements in your market.

Does the Honda CR-V use regular gas?

Yes, a Honda CR-V takes regular unleaded gas, with an octane rating of 87. While the owner's manual may recommend a higher octane for certain models or hybrids, using 87 octane is generally acceptable and will not harm the engine. Using premium fuel won't provide better fuel economy or more power in this vehicle. 

• Required fuel: Most Honda CR-Vs are designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline with an 87 octane rating. 
• Hybrid models: Newer CR-V Hybrids can also use regular 87 octane fuel, though Honda may recommend 91 octane for optimal performance in some cases. 
• What to avoid: Do not use E85 fuel, as Honda engines are not designed for it. 
• Where to check: Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate information specific to your model year. 

What happens if I put 87 instead of 91?

If you put 87 octane instead of 91 in a car that requires it, your modern engine's computer will likely adjust timing to prevent damage, but you may experience reduced performance and fuel efficiency. For a one-time mistake, drive gently and fill up with 91 octane the next time to dilute the fuel. However, consistently using lower-octane fuel in a high-compression or performance engine can lead to engine knocking and potential damage. 
What to expect in the short term

• Reduced performance: You may notice less acceleration and overall power. 
• Engine knocking or pinging: This is a rattling noise that can occur when the fuel pre-ignites in the cylinder. 
• Decreased fuel economy: Your car may use more fuel to go the same distance. 

How to mitigate the effects

• Avoid hard acceleration: Drive gently, especially at high speeds or when climbing hills, to minimize the risk of engine knocking. 
• Fill up with 91 octane: When your fuel tank is low, fill it up with 91 octane to mix with the remaining 87 octane fuel. This will dilute the lower-octane fuel and raise the overall rating. 
• Check your owner's manual: The manual will specify if 91 octane is a requirement or simply a recommendation. 
• Be cautious with performance vehicles: Cars with turbochargers or high-compression engines are more susceptible to damage from lower-octane fuel, so it is especially important to avoid aggressive driving. 

Should I put 87 or 89 in my car?

No, 89 octane gas is not inherently better than 87, but it can be necessary for certain vehicles. For most cars, using 89 octane instead of 87 will not provide benefits like increased power or efficiency and is simply a more expensive choice. However, some engines are designed to require a higher octane level (like 89 or 91) to prevent knocking and damage, especially if they have a turbocharger or higher compression ratio. You should always use the octane level recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual. 
When 89 octane may be needed

• Your car's manufacturer recommends it in the owner's manual.
• Your engine has a turbocharger or supercharger.
• Your engine has a high compression ratio.
• You hear your engine "knocking" or "pinging" when using 87 octane gas. 

When 89 octane is not necessary 

• Your car is designed for 87 octane fuel and doesn't have a high-performance engine.
• Using 89 octane won't make your car faster or more efficient than the recommended 87.
• You will simply be paying more for no added benefit. 

Which CRV 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.