The 2024 Honda CR-V is an evolution of an already popular model, now offering enhanced practicality, a refined interior, and new hybrid options. Here’s a detailed first-hand review focusing on five key aspects:

1. Design and Build Quality

The 2024 Honda CR-V has undergone a noticeable design shift, boasting a more mature and assertive exterior compared to its predecessors. The new model features sharper lines, a bolder grille, and sleek LED headlights, giving it a contemporary and confident look. The build quality is impressive, with tight panel gaps and a sturdy feel to the doors, which close with a satisfying solidity.

Inside, the CR-V offers a premium experience with high-quality materials such as leather and polished metal trims. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with a minimalist design that avoids clutter. The use of soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors adds to the upscale feel. However, it’s worth noting that the interior colour options are somewhat limited, primarily offering a black-on-black theme. The panoramic sunroof, which comes standard on higher trims, enhances the sense of space and airiness inside the vehicle.

2. Performance and Handling

Under the bonnet, the 2024 CR-V offers two powertrains: a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a more advanced hybrid system. The 1.5-litre engine provides 190 bhp, sufficient for everyday driving needs, though it is tuned more for efficiency than sportiness. The engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which operates smoothly but lacks the engagement of a traditional automatic.

For those interested in better fuel efficiency and lower emissions, the hybrid option is particularly appealing. It combines a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor to deliver 212 bhp. The hybrid system is designed to switch seamlessly between electric and petrol power, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving experience. Around town, the CR-V is easy to manoeuvre, thanks to its light steering and excellent visibility. The suspension absorbs road imperfections well, offering a comfortable ride. However, on motorways, the CR-V does let in more wind and road noise than some might prefer.

3. Technology and Infotainment

The 2024 CR-V comes equipped with a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with wireless capability for the latter. The system is user-friendly, with crisp graphics and responsive controls, although the reliance on touch controls for some functions might not appeal to everyone. Notably, the physical climate control buttons and knobs are a welcome feature, providing ease of use while driving.

The CR-V also includes a digital driver’s display that is clear and customisable, offering vital information at a glance. Safety technology is comprehensive, with Honda’s Sensing 360 system offering features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking as standard across the range. Higher trims add more luxury and convenience features, including a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a premium Bose audio system, further enhancing the driving experience.

4. Comfort and Practicality

Honda has expanded the CR-V’s dimensions, making it 106mm longer than its predecessor, with a wheelbase extended by 40mm. This translates to more interior space, particularly in the rear, where passengers now enjoy 16mm of additional legroom. The rear seats are adjustable, offering 16 levels of recline, which is ideal for long journeys. The driving position is excellent, with ample adjustment options to find a comfortable setting, and higher trims include memory functions for the seats.

One of the CR-V’s strongest suits is its practicality. The boot is spacious, offering 635 litres in the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version and 596 litres in the standard hybrid. This is competitive within its class and is particularly notable given that many plug-in hybrids sacrifice boot space to accommodate batteries. The flat load floor and wide opening make the boot easy to use for loading larger items.

5. Fuel Economy and Environmental Impact

The 2024 CR-V continues to excel in fuel efficiency, particularly with its hybrid models. The standard hybrid version achieves around 47.9 mpg, while the PHEV version can run up to 51 miles on electric power alone before switching to the petrol engine, making it ideal for city commutes and reducing overall fuel consumption.

However, the CR-V does come with some drawbacks. It lacks rapid charging capability, meaning that recharging the PHEV model might not be as convenient for those without easy access to home charging. Additionally, while the CR-V is efficient, its pricing places it in a challenging position. Starting at £45,895 and topping out around £54,000 for the PHEV, it competes directly with more luxurious rivals like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60, which might offer more brand appeal for similar money.

The 2024 Honda CR-V remains a highly practical and well-rounded choice in the crowded SUV market. It offers a comfortable, spacious interior, advanced hybrid powertrains, and a strong suite of safety and technology features. However, its pricing may deter some buyers, especially when compared to similarly priced, more luxurious alternatives. Nonetheless, for those seeking a reliable, efficient, and spacious family SUV, the CR-V is definitely worth considering, particularly in its hybrid and PHEV forms.