2026 Honda CR-V First Look

Honda's bestseller gets an off-roady TrailSport option.

Andrew Ganz | 

May 7, 2025 | 2 min read

Honda

Here's what you need to know about the mid-cycle updates for the 2026 Honda CR-V.

Honda

2026 Honda CR-V: Technology

The CR-V comes in seven trim levels for 2026. Only the top Sport Touring model, however, gets a new infotainment software featuring Google built-in tech with integrated Google Maps, Google Assistant, and additional apps that can be downloaded via the Google Play store.

That said, all CR-Vs now include the 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen previously available exclusively on high-end trim levels. Drivers can leave their cords at home, too, as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and wireless device charging are newly available across the lineup.

The EX-L, Sport-L, TrailSport, and Sport Touring trims also include a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, which is 3 inches larger than the 7.0-inch display on lower trim levels. Depending on trim level, the CR-V can have four, six, eight, or 12 audio speakers, but only the final setup comes from Bose.

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2026 Honda CR-V: Power and Performance

The CR-V is available as either a gas-only model or a hybrid that delivers more power and better fuel economy.

The LX, EX, and EX-L trims feature a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 190 horsepower, while Sport, TrailSport, Sport L, and Sport Touring trims swap in a 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with two electric motors and a battery for a combined output of 204 horsepower.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional across the line, except on the TrailSport, where it's included. Models with AWD have an updated traction-control system that Honda says provides sharper response at lower speeds.

New for 2026, the Sport Touring trim features an Individual drive mode that lets drivers tweak throttle response and steering heft. It also now includes 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, whereas other CR-Vs come with 18-inchers.

Honda

2026 Honda CR-V: New TrailSport Version

Slotting in above the Sport trim, the hybrid-only CR-V TrailSport delivers an outdoorsy look plus more rugged tires than what Honda fits to other versions.

Compared with some of Honda's other TrailSport models, such as the Ridgeline TrailSport with its special suspension, the CR-V's treatment is more about style than utility. The CR-V TrailSport gains black and orange touches and a skid plate-like silver panel below its front bumper. Inside, its black and gray fabric seats have contrasting orange stitching. The front seats feature an embroidered TrailSport logo. Rubber floor mats line the floor wells.

The only real capability enhancer is the CR-V TrailSport's Continental all-terrain tires, which are wrapped around gray-finish 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Other CR-V models come with pavement-oriented all-season tires.

Andrew Ganz

Andrew has been hooked on cars since his mother coaxed him into naps by driving him around in her rattly old diesel Mercedes-Benz. Perhaps it was the diesel fumes that lulled him to sleep. Either way, he has since parlayed his automotive enthusiasm into a decades-long career as a journalist writing for such well-known sites as Auto Express, Autoblog, Car and Driver, Leftlane News, Motor1, Motor Authority, and The Car Connection, not to mention numerous classic-car publications. When he's not researching cars, he's probably working on one — though he has yet to own a diesel Mercedes. Off to the classifieds he goes.