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What is the most powerful CR-V?

The most powerful CR-V is the CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV), delivering a combined output of about 204 horsepower, making it the strongest variant in Honda's current lineup.

Beyond that headline figure, the CR-V lineup splits into two main powertrain families: a turbocharged gasoline engine for traditional brisk performance and a hybrid system that prioritizes efficiency while delivering strong total output. This article examines how power is produced across the options and what it means for real-world driving.

Powertrains and performance

Two main propulsion families define the CR-V lineup today. The following sections outline how much power each system produces and how that translates to driving feel.

Gasoline turbo option: 1.5L VTEC Turbo

The turbocharged 1.5-liter engine is the standard performance choice in most trims. It generates around 190 horsepower and roughly 179 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to provide smooth, steady acceleration. This setup is favored for its lively response in everyday driving and confident highway overtaking when the turbo is engaged.

Hybrid option: CR-V Hybrid e:HEV

The CR-V Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors to deliver a combined 204 horsepower. Electric assistance improves low-end responsiveness and delivers strong off-the-line acceleration, while prioritizing fuel efficiency on longer journeys. This makes it the most powerful CR-V you can buy in most markets today.

For a quick, at-a-glance comparison of the two main options:

Gasoline turbo (1.5L): around 190 horsepower, traditional gasoline power with a CVT.

Hybrid e:HEV (2.0L Atkinson + two motors): combined 204 horsepower, electric boost for strong low-end torque.

In real-world driving, the hybrid’s electric torque helps with swift response at low speeds and smooth, confident acceleration in everyday conditions. The turbo model, meanwhile, emphasizes a more traditional gasoline feel with linear power delivery and strong highway performance. The best choice depends on whether you prioritize peak power and simplicity (turbo) or combined power with efficiency (hybrid).

Real-world considerations for buyers

Fuel economy, upfront cost, and driving style all factor into the decision between powertrains. The hybrid typically carries a higher upfront price but pays back with better fuel economy and lower emissions, especially in city and mixed driving. The turbocharged model usually comes with a lower initial price and strong, readily accessible power without the need to engage electric motors.

Both CR-V variants share core strengths like a comfortable ride, roomy interior, and advanced safety/tech features. Availability and exact specifications can vary by market and model year, so check the latest local Honda information for your region.

Summary

The current title of “most powerful” in the Honda CR-V lineup goes to the CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV), with a combined output of about 204 horsepower. The turbocharged 1.5L option remains the main alternative for buyers seeking traditional gasoline power with a lower upfront price. When choosing between them, buyers should weigh total cost of ownership, fuel economy, and personal driving priorities—powerful and efficient in the hybrid, or quick-reacting and potentially cheaper to buy in the turbo version.

Which Honda CR-V is top of the line?

The top-of-the-line Honda CR-V is the Sport Touring Hybrid, which is the most fully-loaded trim available for the hybrid models. It offers a combination of performance, luxury, and advanced features, including the hybrid powertrain, a Bose premium sound system, and various convenience and safety enhancements. For a non-hybrid option, the EX-L is the highest trim.

This video provides an overview of the 2026 Honda CR-V Sport Touring and its features: 59sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Aug 23, 2025
Top-of-the-line trims by powertrain

Hybrid: The top-of-the-line is the Sport Touring Hybrid.
- It includes a two-motor hybrid system with a combined 204 horsepower.
- Features include a Bose premium sound system, heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a power tailgate with programmable height settings.
- It also adds features like 19-inch gloss black alloy wheels and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
Gasoline: The highest non-hybrid trim is the EX-L.
- It features a turbocharged engine.
- Highlights include a larger 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and leather-trimmed seats.
- It also includes front and rear parking sensors and a power tailgate.

This video compares the features of the LX, EX, and EX-L trims of the Honda CR-V: 58sCrazy Honda ChrisYouTube · Jul 18, 2025

Which Honda CR-V is the fastest?

The fastest production Honda CR-V is the Hybrid Sport Touring model, which has a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.7 seconds. While the non-hybrid CR-V also offers strong performance, the hybrid powertrain's instant torque from the electric motors gives it an acceleration advantage. All models are limited to a top speed of around 115 mph.
This video shows a review of the 2025 Honda CR-V EX vs EX-L and their acceleration: 56sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Sep 21, 2024

Fastest: The Hybrid Sport Touring CR-V achieves the quickest 0-60 mph acceleration at around 7.7 seconds.
Reason: The hybrid model's electric motors provide instant torque, which leads to faster acceleration from a stop.
Non-Hybrid: The non-hybrid EX-L with AWD is also quick, with a 0-60 mph time of about 8.1 seconds.
Top Speed: The top speed for all CR-V models is electronically limited to about 115 mph.

Which is better, an ex or lx CR-V?

The main differences between the Honda CR-V LX and EX trims are the EX's added premium and convenience features, such as a one-touch power moonroof, heated front seats, a Blind Spot Information System, and 18-inch alloy wheels. While the LX is a value-focused trim with standard features like a 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration and Honda Sensing, the EX builds on this by offering more comfort and safety upgrades.
You can watch this video to see a side-by-side comparison of the 2024 Honda CR-V LX and EX models: 59sVagabond BuildsYouTube · Jan 19, 2024
Honda CR-V LX

Key Features: 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, push-button start, dual-zone automatic climate control, cloth seats, and Honda Sensing suite.
Wheels: 17-inch wheels with covers.
Exterior: Standard LED headlights and taillights.
Interior: Lacks some of the comfort and convenience features of the EX.

Honda CR-V EX

Key Features: Includes all LX features plus:
- One-touch power moonroof.
- Heated front seats.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI).
- Remote engine start.
- Dual rear USB ports.
- Dual-zone automatic climate control (some sources list this as an upgrade).
Wheels: Upgraded 18-inch alloy wheels.
Exterior: Heated power side mirrors.
Interior: Adds more premium and convenient upgrades.

This video demonstrates the features of the 2026 Honda CR-V LX trim: 59sWalser HondaYouTube · Sep 5, 2025

Which Honda CR-V has the most horsepower?

The non-hybrid Honda CR-V comes equipped with a 190 horsepower turbocharged engine, meanwhile the Hybrid CR-V packs 204 horsepower.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.