Honda CR-V review for Colorado buyers

The CR-V for Colorado buyers

Hybrid or 1.5 turbo for Colorado

On 2023 and newer CR-Vs, the hybrid is the one we'd point most Colorado buyers toward. It makes 204 hp combined, with 247 lb-ft from the electric motor, versus 190 hp and 179 lb-ft for the 1.5-liter turbo. EPA rates the AWD hybrid at 37 mpg combined versus 28 to 29 for the AWD turbo.

The turbo still has a place. It's rated to tow 1,500 pounds versus 1,000 for the hybrid, and on 2017-2022 models it's the engine most CR-Vs have. Turbocharged engines also hold their power at altitude better than the older non-turbo 2.4-liter.

On 2020-2022, the first CR-V Hybrid makes 212 hp and comes with AWD, rated at 38 mpg combined. It's a good used buy, but check that recalls 20V798 and 23V844, both tied to the 12-volt system, were completed. You can browse current CR-Vs in our inventory.

The 2017-2018 oil dilution story

Early 1.5-liter turbo CR-Vs drew complaints that fuel was getting into the engine oil, raising the oil level. Honda framed it as mostly a cold-weather problem, which is why it matters here. Honda issued software updates for cars sold in cold-weather states and extended coverage on certain 2017-2018 CR-Vs to six years with unlimited miles for parts including the camshaft and rocker arms.

That six-year coverage has now run out on nearly every affected car. If you're shopping a 2017 or 2018 1.5T, ask for proof the software update was done, look at oil change frequency in the records, and check the dipstick for an overfull level. A car with frequent oil changes and the update is a reasonable buy; one with no history is a gamble we'd skip.

Not sure how to judge a specific car? That's what we do. See how our buying process works or contact us with a VIN.

Snow, Real Time AWD and the Traction Law

Real Time AWD is Honda's on-demand system: it sends power to the wheels with grip when the front tires slip. It's optional on most CR-V trims, so front-drive CR-Vs show up in every model year. If you'll be in the mountains, filter for AWD.

For 2023, Honda added a Snow drive mode to the hybrid, working with the updated Real Time AWD on Sport AWD and Sport Touring models. It's a useful addition for icy Front Range mornings.

Whatever you buy, CDOT's Traction Law on I-70 between Morrison and Dotsero (September 1 through May 31) requires tires with at least 3/16 inch of tread and a winter, all-weather or M+S rating, or chains or an approved device. Our guide to buying a used car for Colorado winters explains what to check.

Clearance and towing: know the limits

Honda lists 7.8 inches of ground clearance on front-drive 2023+ CR-Vs and 8.2 inches on AWD models. That's fine for plowed roads and most driveways, but it's less than the 8.7 inches on every Subaru Forester or Outback, and it shows on rutted, snow-packed side streets.

The 2026 TrailSport hybrid adds its own styling and equipment, but published specs show it keeps the same roughly 8.2 inches of clearance and the same 1,000-pound tow rating as other hybrids. Don't buy it expecting a lifted CR-V.

For towing, gas models are rated at 1,500 pounds, which covers a utility trailer or small pop-up. If a camper is in your plans, read towing a camper in the mountains and consider something with a higher rating.

What to check on a used CR-V

On 2017-2022 models, NHTSA's investigation into unexpected automatic emergency braking is worth knowing about. It started in 2022 with 2017-2019 CR-Vs and was expanded in 2024 to include 2020-2022 models and upgraded to an engineering analysis. Check nhtsa.gov for the latest status and any resulting recall before you buy.

On 2023 hybrids, confirm recalls 23V588 (electronic transmission) and 24V745 (high-voltage battery modules). On 2023-2025 models, the steering gearbox recall 24V744 matters too: difficulty steering is not something you want discovered on a mountain road.

Last, check for hail repair and paint work, a normal step for any used car in Colorado. Our hail damage guide covers what to look for.