What is the difference between CR-V and BR-V?
The CR-V is a larger, more premium five-seat SUV with modern safety tech and versatile powertrain options, while the BR-V is a budget-friendly seven-seat family vehicle aimed at space and value in select markets.
Overview and positioning
In Honda’s global lineup, the CR-V sits higher as a refined compact SUV with emphasis on comfort, cargo versatility, and technology. The BR-V, by contrast, targets affordability and practical seating, offering a three-row layout in markets where seven seats and flexible passenger space are priorities. The BR-V is not a global mainstay in the same way as the CR-V and is concentrated in specific regions.
Core differences by category
The following bullets highlight the most visible contrasts when comparing CR-V and BR-V across key areas.
- Seating and space: CR-V typically seats five with a roomy second row and a generous cargo area behind it; BR-V offers seven seats (2-3-2 layout), prioritizing passenger capacity and versatility over maximum cargo space when the third row is folded.
- Powertrain and performance: CR-V commonly provides turbocharged petrol engines and, in many markets, a hybrid option for efficiency and smooth power; BR-V uses a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine in most markets, with manual or CVT transmissions, and generally no turbo or hybrid option.
- Interior, features, and safety: CR-V aims for a more premium feel with higher-grade materials and options like advanced driver-assistance systems (Honda Sensing) on many trims; BR-V emphasizes practicality with simpler materials and standard safety features, especially on base models.
- Dimensions and practicality: CR-V is larger overall, with more cargo behind the second row and a more refined ride; BR-V is shorter but offers third-row seating, trading some cargo flexibility for extra seats.
- Market positioning and availability: CR-V is sold globally as Honda’s mainstream compact SUV; BR-V is region-specific (notably in parts of Southeast Asia, India, and some Latin American markets) and has seen discontinuations or shifts in response to new models.
Across these categories, the CR-V represents Honda’s premium, tech-forward five-seat option, while the BR-V serves as a value-oriented seven-seat family vehicle in targeted markets.
Technology, safety features, and trims
Engine options and propulsion
CR-V models commonly offer turbocharged engines and, in many markets, a hybrid variant for efficiency and strong real-world performance. BR-V generally sticks to a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter petrol engine with either a manual or CVT transmission, without turbo or hybrid variants in most regions.
Safety and driver-assistance
Honda Sensing and other advanced driver-assistance features are frequently available on higher CR-V trims or across the lineup in certain markets. The BR-V’s safety suite is typically more basic, especially on entry-level trims, though some markets have added upgraded features in later facelifts.
Interior and technology
CR-V interiors tend toward higher-quality materials, larger touchscreen infotainment systems, and more comfort amenities. BR-V interiors prioritize space efficiency and practicality, with simpler finishes and fewer premium tech options on lower trims.
Market availability and pricing
The CR-V enjoys broad global availability, with pricing reflecting its premium positioning and feature set. The BR-V remains a regional product in several markets, offering attractive value for families needing seven seats, but it has faced shifting availability as Honda refocuses its lineup in some regions toward newer models like the Elevate and other regional offerings.
In practice, choosing between the two comes down to needs and budget: if you want a five-seat SUV with advanced safety tech and stronger refinement, the CR-V is the likely pick. If seven-seat capacity at a lower entry price is your priority, and you’re in a market where the BR-V is offered, it provides a practical, value-driven option.
Summary
The Honda CR-V and BR-V occupy different ends of Honda’s family of vehicles. The CR-V targets buyers seeking space, comfort, and premium features in a refined five-seat package, while the BR-V focuses on affordable, versatile seven-seat capacity for families in selected markets. Understanding seating needs, desired tech, and regional availability will guide the best choice between the two.
