Review: 2024 Honda CR-V ePHEV
When it comes to family-friendly SUVs, the Honda CR-V has long been a reliable choice. But in 2024, the CR-V takes a giant leap forward with the Advance Tech Plug-in Hybrid ePHEV. This isn’t just an eco-conscious crossover – it’s a tech-packed, versatile SUV that promises comfort, efficiency, and safety, all while being surprisingly practical for everyday life. If you’re considering the CR-V for both school runs and weekend getaways, let’s see if it really hits the mark in all the key areas that matter to British drivers.
On-Road
The first thing you notice when you drive the 2024 Honda CR-V ePHEV is how smooth and refined the ride is. It doesn’t matter if you’re cruising on the motorway or navigating through town traffic; the CR-V feels well planted and stable. The plug-in hybrid system adds an interesting layer of versatility to the driving experience. With its 2.0-litre petrol engine working alongside the electric motor, the CR-V effortlessly switches between pure electric, hybrid, and engine power, depending on the conditions.
Around town, it’s an absolute joy to drive in EV mode. You can quietly glide past traffic and pedestrians, feeling like you’re doing your bit for the environment – all without the buzz of an engine in the background. You’ll get around 51 miles of pure electric range, so for many daily commutes, you might not even need to use the petrol engine. On motorways, the transition to hybrid mode is seamless, and the petrol engine kicks in unobtrusively when needed, providing that extra grunt for overtaking or long-distance cruising.
The e-CVT gearbox might not be everyone’s cup of tea – it does sometimes create that typical ‘rubber band’ effect under heavy acceleration. But if you’re driving sensibly, as most CR-V owners will be, it’s rarely an issue. In fact, it almost feels like a good fit for the hybrid setup, allowing the system to optimise efficiency without jarring the driver.
The handling is competent, although the CR-V is certainly not a vehicle that encourages spirited driving. Steering is light and responsive enough, but this is an SUV built for comfort and ease of use, not for setting lap records on a track. It’s perfect for British roads though, with decent suspension that smooths over most potholes and bumps. For an SUV of this size, body roll is well controlled, and while the CR-V won’t have the agility of smaller crossovers, it does a solid job in everyday scenarios.
Interior
Step inside and you’re immediately greeted by a cabin that feels premium and modern. Honda has clearly put some thought into creating a tech-centric environment, with everything from the materials to the infotainment screaming sophistication.
The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with a 10.2” digital driver display that’s both clear and customisable. You’ll also get a large 9” infotainment touchscreen in the centre, which handles everything from navigation to smartphone connectivity (of course both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported). Honda’s latest infotainment system is a big step up from previous iterations – it’s responsive, easy to use, and doesn’t suffer from that sluggishness that plagued older models.
There are plenty of physical buttons for important controls like climate settings, which is a relief in a world where everything seems to be moving towards touchscreens. The wireless phone charging pad is a nice touch, as are the multiple USB ports for both front and rear passengers, ensuring everyone can keep their gadgets topped up on long journeys.
The materials used in the cabin are generally top-notch, with a mix of soft-touch plastics, leather, and high-quality trim pieces. The seats, especially in this Advance Tech trim, are upholstered in plush leather with both heating and ventilation – perfect for those cold British mornings or the rare heatwave! The overall fit and finish is impressive, rivalling some premium brands in terms of refinement.
Comfort
If comfort is high on your priority list (and it probably is if you’re considering a CR-V), then the 2024 model won’t disappoint. The seats are supportive and comfortable over long distances, and there’s plenty of adjustment for both the driver and front passenger. Rear passengers are equally well catered for, with ample legroom and headroom, making it a great choice for families or those who often have adult passengers in the back.
One of the standout features of the CR-V ePHEV is how quiet it is. In electric mode, you’ll barely hear a thing, and even when the petrol engine kicks in, it’s well insulated from the cabin. Honda has added extra soundproofing, and it shows – wind and road noise are kept to a minimum, even at motorway speeds.
The panoramic sunroof is another bonus, adding a sense of airiness to the cabin, especially on brighter days. It’s a great feature if you’re ferrying kids around, as it adds a touch of adventure to every journey – even if it’s just to the supermarket!
Practicality
The CR-V has always been known for its practicality, and the 2024 version is no different. There’s loads of storage space throughout the cabin, with big door bins, a large centre console, and a handy glovebox. The boot, though slightly compromised by the hybrid battery, is still spacious enough for most needs. You get 477 litres with the seats up, which should be more than enough for the average family shop or a few weekend bags. Fold the rear seats down, and you’ve got 1,694 litres of almost flat load space, perfect for larger items or a weekend away with the bikes.
One practical bonus is that the CR-V’s rear seats recline, which adds an extra level of comfort for longer trips. Honda’s clever use of space means that despite the hybrid tech, there’s no noticeable loss in cabin or boot space compared to its non-hybrid sibling.
Efficiency
Efficiency is where the CR-V ePHEV really shines. The ability to plug in and use pure electric power for shorter trips is a huge bonus for both your wallet and the environment. With a full charge, you can cover up to 51 miles on electric power alone – more than enough for most people’s daily commutes or local errands t’ shops.
When you do need to tap into the petrol engine, the overall efficiency is still impressive, with combined fuel economy figures of around 282.5mpg. Of course, real-world numbers will depend on how you drive and how often you plug in, but it’s clear that Honda has nailed the balance between performance and efficiency here. For those looking to cut down on fuel costs while still enjoying the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips, the CR-V ePHEV is an excellent option.
Charging is straightforward too, with the CR-V capable of charging from a standard home wall box in around 2.5 hours. If you can top it up overnight, you’ll rarely need to visit a petrol station, which is always a bonus!
Safety
Safety has always been a strong point for Honda, and the 2024 CR-V Advance Tech is no exception. It comes loaded with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and traffic sign recognition. There’s also a 360-degree camera system, which makes parking and manoeuvring in tight spots a breeze – particularly handy in city centres or multi-storey car parks.
Honda has also added a new Driver Attention Monitor, which can detect signs of drowsiness or inattention and give you a gentle nudge to stay alert. It’s these small touches that really add to the overall feeling of safety and security when you’re driving the CR-V.
Conclusion
The 2024 Honda CR-V Advance Tech Plug-in Hybrid ePHEV is a brilliant example of how far hybrid technology has come. It combines the practicality, comfort, and reliability that the CR-V has always been known for with a clever plug-in hybrid system that offers real-world efficiency benefits.
Whether you’re looking for a family SUV, an eco-friendly commuter, or something that can handle the odd adventure, the CR-V ticks a lot of boxes. It’s not the most dynamic SUV on the market, but for most drivers, its blend of comfort, practicality, and tech will be more than enough. Plus, with its long electric-only range and Honda’s impeccable safety record, it’s a vehicle that’ll appeal to both your heart and your head.
Website: Honda UK
Price: £53,995 (as tested: £54,990)