Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2021 Honda CR-V, a super popular compact SUV that's known for its reliability, practicality, and overall awesomeness. In this article, we’re breaking down the different models, highlighting key features, and giving you a solid comparison to help you decide which CR-V is the perfect fit for you. Whether you're after fuel efficiency, advanced tech, or just a comfortable ride, we've got you covered. So buckle up, and let’s get started!

Overview of the 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Honda CR-V is a fantastic choice in the compact SUV market, offering a blend of comfort, utility, and efficiency that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Before we get into the nitty-gritty of comparing the different models, let’s paint a broad picture of what the 2021 CR-V brings to the table. The CR-V boasts a well-designed interior with plenty of passenger and cargo space, making it ideal for families and individuals alike. One of the standout features is its reputation for reliability; Honda has consistently produced vehicles known for their longevity and minimal maintenance issues. The 2021 CR-V continues this tradition, providing peace of mind for owners. Under the hood, most trims come standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which delivers a great balance of power and fuel economy. For those seeking even better fuel efficiency, there's also a hybrid version available. Safety is another area where the CR-V shines, with the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies included as standard on all trims. This suite includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, enhancing safety for both the driver and passengers. Now that we've highlighted the key aspects of the 2021 CR-V, let's move on to comparing the different models to help you determine which one best suits your needs.

Trim Levels and Key Features

The 2021 Honda CR-V comes in several trim levels, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. Understanding the differences between these trims is essential to making an informed decision. Let's break down each trim level and highlight its key features:

• LX: The base LX trim is an excellent entry point, offering a solid foundation of features at an affordable price. Standard features include the Honda Sensing suite, a 5-inch infotainment screen, and a four-speaker audio system. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, it still provides a comfortable and safe driving experience.
• EX: Stepping up to the EX trim adds a host of desirable features, making it a popular choice for many buyers. Upgrades include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, a sunroof, heated front seats, and blind-spot monitoring. These additions enhance both convenience and comfort. The EX trim also gets you access to Honda's Real Time AWD system, adding to the CR-V's overall capabilities.
• EX-L: The EX-L trim takes luxury a step further, adding leather upholstery, a power tailgate, and an upgraded eight-speaker audio system. The leather seats elevate the interior's ambiance, while the power tailgate adds convenience when loading and unloading cargo. If you value a touch of luxury and added convenience, the EX-L is worth considering.
• Touring: At the top of the lineup, the Touring trim includes all the features of the lower trims, plus additional upgrades such as a premium nine-speaker audio system, a hands-free power tailgate, and integrated navigation. The hands-free power tailgate is especially useful when your hands are full, and the premium audio system provides an immersive listening experience. For those who want the ultimate CR-V experience, the Touring trim delivers top-of-the-line features and amenities.
• Hybrid Models: In addition to the standard trims, the 2021 CR-V is also available as a hybrid. The hybrid models (Hybrid EX, Hybrid EX-L, Hybrid Touring) combine a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance. The hybrid trims mirror the features of their gasoline counterparts, but with the added benefit of increased efficiency. If fuel economy is a top priority, the hybrid models are an excellent choice.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

When it comes to performance and fuel efficiency, the 2021 Honda CR-V offers two distinct options: the standard 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and the hybrid powertrain. The 1.5-liter turbo engine delivers a peppy 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for daily driving and highway cruising. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which helps maximize fuel efficiency. Fuel economy for the standard CR-V is rated at up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel-drive models see a slight decrease in fuel economy, but still offer respectable numbers. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, the hybrid models are the way to go. The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a combined output of 212 horsepower. More importantly, the hybrid CR-V achieves significantly better fuel economy, with ratings of up to 40 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This makes the hybrid an excellent choice for commuters and anyone looking to save money at the pump. In terms of driving experience, both the standard and hybrid CR-V offer a comfortable and composed ride. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, providing a smooth and pleasant experience for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and responsive, making the CR-V easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Whether you opt for the standard engine or the hybrid powertrain, the 2021 CR-V delivers a well-rounded performance that is sure to impress.

Interior and Technology

The interior of the 2021 Honda CR-V is designed with both comfort and practicality in mind. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The materials used throughout the interior are of high quality, giving the CR-V a premium feel. Depending on the trim level, you can find features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The CR-V also excels in terms of cargo space, offering one of the largest cargo areas in its class. With the rear seats up, there's ample room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. Folding the rear seats down expands the cargo area even further, allowing you to haul larger items with ease. When it comes to technology, the 2021 CR-V offers a range of features to keep you connected and entertained. The base LX trim comes with a 5-inch infotainment screen, while the higher trims upgrade to a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. These smartphone integration features allow you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send messages directly from the car's infotainment system. Other available tech features include a premium audio system, navigation, and a hands-free power tailgate. The Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies is standard on all trims, providing added peace of mind on the road. This suite includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, helping to prevent accidents and keep you safe. Overall, the interior and technology of the 2021 CR-V strike a great balance between comfort, convenience, and innovation.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Honda, and the 2021 CR-V is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers. One of the standout safety features is the Honda Sensing suite, which is standard on all trim levels. This comprehensive suite includes a range of driver-assistive technologies, such as:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC allows you to set a desired speed and following distance, and the system will automatically adjust your speed to maintain that distance from the vehicle ahead. This can be especially helpful on long highway drives.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS helps you stay in your lane by providing gentle steering corrections if you start to drift. This can be particularly useful on long, monotonous stretches of road.
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): AEB can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help mitigate or avoid an accident. This feature can be a lifesaver in emergency situations.
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): RDM can detect when you're about to leave the road and provide steering and braking assistance to help you stay on course.

In addition to the Honda Sensing suite, the 2021 CR-V also comes with a variety of other safety features, such as antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. The CR-V has also performed well in crash tests, earning top marks from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). With its comprehensive suite of safety features and strong crash test ratings, the 2021 CR-V provides excellent protection for you and your loved ones.

Choosing the Right 2021 CR-V Model For You

Okay, guys, let's wrap things up and help you figure out which 2021 CR-V model is the right one for you. We’ve covered a lot, so let's recap:

• LX: If you're on a tight budget and just need a reliable and safe SUV with essential features, the LX is a solid choice. You still get the Honda Sensing suite, which is a huge plus.
• EX: For a sweet spot of features and value, the EX is hard to beat. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a sunroof, and heated seats make it a comfortable and convenient ride.
• EX-L: If you want a touch of luxury with leather seats and a power tailgate, the EX-L is a great step up without breaking the bank.
• Touring: If you want all the bells and whistles – premium audio, navigation, and a hands-free tailgate – the Touring is the way to go. It’s the ultimate CR-V experience.
• Hybrid Models (EX, EX-L, Touring): If fuel efficiency is your top priority, any of the hybrid models will save you money at the pump. They offer similar features to their gasoline counterparts but with significantly better MPG.

Consider your budget, your needs, and what features are most important to you. Do you need all-wheel drive for snowy conditions? Is fuel economy a top concern? Do you want a luxurious interior with all the latest tech? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options and choose the perfect 2021 CR-V for your lifestyle. Happy driving!