Honda CR-V gains hybrid power and all-wheel drive at a lower price

Hybrid power has arrived in the CR-V range in South Africa for the first time. The new CR-V RS e:HEV AWD pairs Honda’s 2.0-litre self-charging hybrid system with standard all-wheel drive, and it launches in the model’s anniversary month, a year after the nameplate turned 30.

First launched in Japan in 1995, the CR-V is sold in around 150 countries. Cumulative sales passed 15 million in August 2025, and it remains Honda’s best-selling car worldwide over the last decade.

CR-V e:HEV hybrid system explained

A 2.0-litre direct-injection Atkinson-cycle petrol engine producing 106 kW and 189 N.m works with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The motors deliver 135 kW and 335 N.m, replacing the outgoing 1.5-litre turbo model. There is no conventional multi-speed gearbox, belts or pulleys, and the system never needs to be plugged in.

Three modes are selected automatically. In EV Drive the traction motor moves the car on battery power with the engine off. Hybrid Drive starts the engine to run the generator motor, while the wheels are still driven electrically. At steady highway speeds, Engine Drive engages a lock-up clutch so the petrol unit drives the wheels directly, and regenerative braking recharges the battery when the driver lifts off or brakes.

Real Time AWD as standard

All-wheel drive was one of the most frequent requests from customers and dealers. The electronically controlled Real Time AWD system sends torque to the rear wheels before slip occurs, such as when pulling away or climbing a hill, and redistributes torque between the axles through corners.

Five seats and RS specification

The cabin returns to a five-seat layout with more luggage space. RS styling adds gloss-black bumper accents and dual exhaust outlets, while the interior gets RS-style eco-friendly leather upholstery, white ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. Equipment carried over includes a head-up display, LaneWatch camera, the Honda SENSING driver-assist suite, a 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch TFT display and wireless phone charging. A new Blazing Red Pearl colour joins the range.

Price and warranty in South Africa

Priced at R949 900, the CR-V 2.0L RS e:HEV AWD costs R91 400 less than the outgoing model. It goes on sale at selected Honda dealers nationwide from 14 October 2026, with a 5-year/200 000 km warranty, an 8-year/200 000 km hybrid system warranty, a 5-year/90 000 km service plan and three years of roadside assistance.

Supplied by QuickPic (Honda)

This story is based on aggregated news, press release(s) or other sources and was prepared with the help of AI tools, which can make mistakes. Prices, specifications, general information and availability may change, so confirm the details with the manufacturer, other news sources or a dealer.