Which Honda CR-V has the best gas mileage?

The Honda CR-V Hybrid (often labeled as the CR-V e:HEV) currently offers the best fuel economy in the CR-V lineup.

To understand what that means in practice, this article compares the main current options—hybrid versus gasoline-only models—and explains how to weigh fuel economy against price, features, and driving needs as of the 2024–2025 model years.

Variant-by-variant fuel economy

Below is a concise guide to the mpg you can expect from the CR-V’s current lineup. Numbers are EPA estimates and can vary with trim, drivetrain, and driving conditions.

• Honda CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV): The top choice for fuel economy, with EPA estimates around 40 mpg in city driving and mid-30s on the highway, resulting in roughly 38 mpg combined. Both FWD and AWD configurations benefit from the hybrid powertrain, though real-world numbers depend on your driving mix.


• Honda CR-V Gasoline 1.5L Turbo (non-hybrid): This turbocharged option typically delivers lower mpg—approximately a high-20s to around 30 mpg in city driving and around the mid-30s on the highway, best-case around 30–33 mpg combined depending on drivetrain and trim.

In short, if maximizing miles-per-gallon is your priority, the CR-V Hybrid clearly leads the pack. If you’re weighing upfront cost or might do more highway cruising, the non-hybrid gasoline model remains a solid option with respectable efficiency.

What to consider beyond the numbers

Fuel economy is one piece of the decision. Here are factors that influence whether the Hybrid or gasoline version is right for you.

• Upfront cost versus long-term savings: The Hybrid carries a higher sticker price, but fuel savings can offset the premium over time, depending on your local gas prices and annual mileage.


• Driving patterns: If you do a lot of city driving with frequent idling, the Hybrid often shines. Long highway commutes also benefit from steady, efficient cruising.


• Drivetrain and capability: The Hybrid is available with different drive configurations, and some buyers prefer FWD for efficiency or AWD for traction in adverse conditions—both with the Hybrid typically offering best-in-class mpg within the CR-V family.


• Real-world mpg versus EPA estimates: Actual mileage can vary based on load, weather, tire type, and driving style. Hybrids tend to underperform EPA numbers in aggressive driving but outperform gasoline engines in mixed urban use when driven efficiently.

Practical guidance: If your primary goal is maximum fuel economy and you drive a lot in urban or mixed conditions, the CR-V Hybrid is the recommended choice. If you value the lowest upfront cost or require certain capability/features not available on the hybrid, the gasoline variant remains a compelling option.

Summary

Among current Honda CR-V models, the Hybrid (e:HEV) delivers the best gas mileage, typically achieving around 38 mpg combined with EPA estimates near 40 mpg city and mid-30s highway. Gasoline-only models with the 1.5L turbo are more efficient than older non-hybrid CR-Vs in some situations but generally trail the hybrid’s efficiency in overall fuel economy. When choosing, weigh your annual mileage, driving environment, and the total cost of ownership to determine whether the hybrid’s efficiency pays off for you.

Bottom line: If maximum fuel efficiency is your top criterion, the Honda CR-V Hybrid is the best choice. For those prioritizing purchase price or specific capabilities, a gasoline-only CR-V remains a practical alternative.

Summary of the key point: The CR-V Hybrid offers the strongest fuel economy in the current lineup, with real-world mpg influenced by driving habits and conditions.

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. 

Which Honda CR-V gets the best gas mileage?

Honda CR-V Hybrid
Drawing power from two sources, Hybrid models achieve higher fuel efficiency. This keeps the 2023 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid at a 43 MPG city and 36 MPG highway rating with 2WD and 40 MPG city and 34 MPG highway when using AWD*.

Which year model of Honda CR-V is the best?

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. 

Is the ex or lx CR-V better?

Another thing Gardner drivers love about the 2022 Honda CR-V is the generous storage and interior dimensions with up to 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space. Still, the LX has a bit more cabin room with 105.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, while the CR-V EX has 102.9 cubic feet of passenger room.