What year CR-V has Honda Sensing?
In the United States, Honda Sensing became standard on the CR-V starting with the 2020 model year. Before that, the safety suite was available mainly on higher trims or as part of optional packages. This article explains the timeline and what buyers can expect today.
The Honda CR-V has steadily expanded its safety technology since it first rolled out the Honda Sensing suite. Here’s a concise look at when Sensing became standard in the U.S. and how it has been applied across model years.
Timeline: Honda Sensing availability on the CR-V in the United States
Below is a year-by-year summary of the safety suite’s status in the CR-V lineup, with a focus on the U.S. market. This list clarifies which model years offered Sensing as standard versus optional.
- 2019 CR-V: Honda Sensing was not standard on base LX; it could be added on higher trims as part of the Honda Sensing package, depending on the configuration.
- 2020 CR-V: Honda Sensing became standard on all CR-V trims sold in the U.S. (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring).
- 2021–present: No change in the base status—Sensing remains standard across trims, with ongoing software and sensor refinements in newer model years.
The key takeaway is that 2020 marks the first model year in the U.S. where Honda Sensing was universal across the CR-V lineup.
Notes on market variations
Availability and the exact feature set can vary by country and region. Some markets may have offered Honda Sensing on different trims earlier or with different package configurations. When shopping, verify the specific model year and trim to confirm which safety features are included in your area.
What does Honda Sensing include on the CR-V?
Honda Sensing is a bundle of driver-assistance and safety features designed to help prevent collisions and assist with highway driving. The core components have remained consistent, though feature refinements can occur with newer generations and software updates.
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
When Sensing is standard, these features are included across the CR-V lineup, and ongoing updates may improve their performance with newer hardware or software.
Summary
Bottom line: For U.S. buyers, Honda Sensing has been standard on the Honda CR-V since the 2020 model year. Earlier models offered the safety suite primarily on higher trims or as part of optional packages, and regional differences can apply. If you’re shopping today, a 2020 model year or newer CR-V will include Honda Sensing as standard equipment.
When did Honda Sensing become standard on CR-V?
2015
The full suite of Honda Sensing systems debuted on the 2015 Honda CR-V, and Honda Sensing has since continued to improve and expand, representing a technological bridge to the automated driving technology of the future.
Are there any CR-V years to avoid?
Years to avoid for the Honda CR-V include 2002-2003, 2007-2009, and 2017-2019, as they are associated with common issues like excessive oil consumption, air conditioning failures, and engine problems. Specifically, the 2017–2019 models had engine oil dilution and brake issues, while older years like 2002–2003 are known for oil consumption and AC problems.
This video discusses the Honda CR-V's best and worst years and common problems: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
Model years to approach with caution
- 2002–2003: Prone to high oil consumption and early air conditioning system failures.
- 2007–2009: Issues include problems with the air conditioning, excessive oil consumption, and paint problems.
- 2010–2011: Both years have been linked to excessive oil consumption. The 2011 model also had recalls related to unintended acceleration and steering issues.
- 2014–2015: These models experienced persistent engine vibrations, particularly at idle.
- 2017–2019: These years had multiple problems including engine oil dilution (from gasoline getting into the engine oil), potential brake issues, and general electrical problems with the AC and heating systems.
Important considerations
- Maintenance is key: A well-maintained CR-V from a "problematic" year can still be a good vehicle. Regular oil changes are critical for engine longevity.
- Vehicle inspection: Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a trusted mechanic to catch potential issues before buying.
- Rust and suspension: Older models can be susceptible to suspension issues, and rust can lead to more costly repairs.
What year do Hondas have Honda Sensing?
2015
The Honda Sensing® package was first introduced with the 2015 Honda CR-V Touring model and has been included ever since with every new Honda model.
Which Honda CR-V has Honda Sensing?
A Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies is standard on all CR-V trims. It comprises these features: Safety features: Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
