What is the difference between 2021 and 2022 CR-V touring?

In short, there are no significant mechanical changes between the 2021 and 2022 CR-V Touring. Both years share the same core powertrain and driving dynamics, with modest differences mainly in equipment packages, standard features, and pricing. This article breaks down what stays the same, what shifts, and how to approach buying or comparing the two model years.

What stays the same

The fundamental mechanical setup and core safety/comfort features of the CR-V Touring carry over from 2021 to 2022. This section highlights the elements that remain consistent across these model years.

• Engine and performance: A turbocharged 1.5-liter engine delivering similar on-paper output and driving characteristics in both years.


• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with the same general tuning and fuel-efficiency goals.


• Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive remains standard, with the option of all-wheel drive, as in prior years.


• Safety and driver assists: The Honda Sensing suite is available on Touring trims in both years, including features like collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control.


• Interior and comfort: Touring continues to offer premium seating surfaces, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and related comfort features, with a similarly equipped cabin layout.


• Infotainment and connectivity: A touchscreen-based system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) remains standard in both years, along with related controls and amenities.

Overall, the underpinnings—the engine, transmission, drivetrain options, safety tech, and interior layout—remain largely unchanged from 2021 to 2022 in the Touring trim.

What changes in 2022 Touring

While the core platform stays the same, the 2022 Touring sees shifts primarily in equipment packaging and pricing, rather than in drivetrain or fundamental performance. The following points cover the practical differences buyers may notice.

• Equipment packaging changes: Some features and packages available on the 2021 Touring may be reorganized, moved between trims, or adjusted in terms of availability on the 2022 model year.


• Standard vs. optional content: A few convenience or technology items could be added to or removed from standard equipment lists, depending on market or dealer configuration.


• Pricing and incentives: The 2022 model year generally carries a modest price adjustment relative to 2021, with possible changes in financing offers or incentives offered by dealers.


• Aesthetic or option adjustments: There may be minor tweaks to color availability, wheel options, or trim accents that differentiate the 2022 Touring visually or in package content.


• Warranty and service terms: The drivetrain and basic warranty terms remain consistent, with any year-to-year differences typically reflected in official documentation rather than performance.

In practice, these differences are mostly about what you get in the box (and the corresponding price) rather than a change in how the vehicle drives or behaves on the road.

Practical considerations for buyers

If you’re weighing a 2021 versus a 2022 Touring, check the window sticker or a dealer’s build sheet carefully. Confirm which features are included, which packages are installed, and whether any items you value (such as navigation, premium audio, or leather upholstery) are present or replaced by alternatives. This ensures you’re comparing equivalent configurations rather than assuming identical trims.

Pricing and value

Pricing dynamics between model years can shift due to inflation, supply, and feature realignments. Generally, the 2022 Touring may show a modest price uptick compared with 2021, reflecting the packaging adjustments and market conditions at the time. Used-car values will also depend on mileage, condition, and local demand, so price comparisons should account for these factors rather than year alone.

Informed buyers often prioritize the specific features they want and verify exactly which features are included in the particular car they’re considering, regardless of the model year label.

Bottom line

The 2021 and 2022 Honda CR-V Touring share the same core engine, transmission, safety systems, and overall character. The main differences are related to feature packaging and pricing rather than performance or mechanics. For most shoppers, the choice comes down to which features matter to you and how the price aligns with the included equipment.

Summary: For the Touring trim, the 2021 and 2022 CR-V are largely indistinguishable in everyday operation; the key distinctions lie in equipment lists and how those features are packaged or priced. Always review the exact specifications on the window sticker to understand what you’re getting with each specific vehicle.

Which year is the best CR-V to buy?

The best Honda CR-V years depend on your priorities, but the 2015-2016 models are frequently cited for balancing reliability with modern features, while the 2020-2022 models are praised for resolving earlier issues and offering the latest technology. For budget-friendly options, earlier models like 2005-2006 or 2009 are reliable choices, though they lack newer tech. 
This video discusses the best and worst years for a Honda CR-V: 59scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
For reliability and value

• 2015-2016: This generation offers a great balance of reliability, comfort, and modern features like the LaneWatch blind-spot monitor without the turbocharged engine issues that appeared in later years. 
• 2005-2006: The final years of the second generation are known for high reliability and are affordable, but lack modern technology and safety features. 
• 2009: A solid and reliable choice from the third generation, offering good fuel economy and affordability. 

For modern features and technology

• 2020-2022: These models are highly recommended for having the kinks worked out of the turbocharged 1.5L engine, making them more reliable than earlier turbocharged years. They also come standard with the Honda Sensing safety suite. 
• 2012-2016: This generation is a good option for those seeking more advanced safety and technology features, like LaneWatch and other driver-assistance innovations. 
• 2021-2023: These years are considered among the best for striking a balance between reliability, value, and modern technology. 

What to consider

• Engine: Models from 2017 onward introduced a 1.5L turbocharged engine, which had issues like oil dilution, particularly in 2017-2018 models. This was largely resolved by 2020. 
• Cost: Older, reliable models like the 2005-2006 or 2009 will be significantly cheaper, while newer models will have a higher price tag but offer the latest tech and safety features. 
• Features: Newer models offer features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and larger infotainment screens, which are not available on older generations. 
• History: Regardless of the year, always check a vehicle's maintenance records, as a well-maintained CR-V is more likely to be a good purchase. 

What year did Honda change the CR-V body style?

2017
The CR-V undergoes a significant redesign for 2017. Along with a completely new look, the compact SUV welcomes a 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine under the hoods of CR-V EX and Touring trims. Base LX models, meanwhile, make do with the old 2.4-liter four-cylinder, now making 184 horses.

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. 

What is the difference between 2021 and 2022 Honda CRV?

The only notable difference between the 2021 and 2022 CR-V SUVs is experienced behind the wheel. For 2022, the top-of-the-line CR-V Touring has all-wheel drive as standard equipment for the first time. For the other trims for both model years, standard front-wheel or available all-wheel drive are offered.