2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that's available in four trim levels. These are LX, EX, EX-L, and Touring. The LX trim comes equipped with exterior features like automatic multi-reflector halogen headlights, power-adjustable side mirrors, remote entry, black accents, and an active shutter grille. Stepping up to the EX trim adds rear privacy glass, heated side mirrors with integrated turn signal indicators, a security system, and LED fog lights.

With the EX-L trim, the main upgrade is a power-operated and height-programmable liftgate that offers easy access to the cargo area. The Touring trim has roof rails, rain-sensing windshield wipers, automatic LED headlights, dual chrome exhaust finishers, and a hands-free tailgate.

The standard powertrain across all four trim levels of the 2021 CR-V includes a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that makes 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque, matched to a continuously variable transmission. The CVT sends power to the front wheels as standard, although you can upgrade any of the trim levels to include Honda's all-wheel-drive system. A hybrid powertrain is also available on the upper three trims, which features an inline-four engine and a lithium-ion battery pack, producing a combined 212 horsepower.

One of the key reasons drivers love the CR-V is its impressive driving performance in all situations. If you're getting up to speed to merge or pass, the peppy turbocharged engine makes it easy to do so. This SUV handles well and provides a smooth, comfortable ride on city roads and highways. The upper three trim levels also include a system with selectable driving modes, which puts more control in your hands.

Within the cabin of the base LX trim of the 2021 CR-V, you'll find automatic climate control, a multi-functional central console, a four-speaker sound system with a 5-inch LCD display screen and USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and cloth upholstery. Step up to the EX trim to get heated front seats, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, two second-row USB charging ports, HD and satellite radio, illuminated front vanity mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an upgraded six-speaker audio system with a 7-inch touch screen.

The EX-L has a nicer eight-speaker sound system, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a universal garage-door opener as standard. At the top of the list, the Touring trim includes wireless phone charging, a premium audio system, integrated navigation, and a heated steering wheel.

Across the board, the 2021 Honda CR-V includes a rearview camera, airbags throughout the cabin, anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, and Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced features. This suite bundles forward-collision warning with automatic braking, lane-departure warning, and road-departure mitigation. The Touring trim also includes front and rear parking sensors.