Honda’s flagship SUV, the CR-V, will be introducing the long-awaited hybrid model, the CR-V e:HEV RS, to the Japanese market in December 2025. The CR-V was revived as a fuel cell vehicle in July 2024, and the addition of this hybrid model will enable it to appeal to a wider range of users.
Honda CR-V Hybrid makes long-awaited return to Japan
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
The new CR-V e:HEV RS, which was unveiled for the first time in Japan at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, is the latest evolution of Honda’s iconic model, which has sold over 15 million units globally and is loved in over 150 countries and regions. In this article, we will thoroughly explain the appeal of the new CR-V e:HEV RS.
Main changes and features of the new CR-V e:HEV RS
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
Adoption of a hybrid system
The new CR-V e:HEV RS is equipped with Honda’s advanced two-motor hybrid system, the e:HEV. Combining a 2.0L inline four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors, this system has the following features:
Powertrain specs:
- Engine output: 145ps/17.8kgm
- Motor output: 184ps/32.1kgm
- Drive system: FF (front-wheel drive) or 4WD (four-wheel drive)
The e:HEV system efficiently uses two motors, one for generating electricity and one for driving. The electric motor takes the lead when accelerating from a stop or driving in urban areas, while the engine’s most efficient range is utilized when cruising at high speeds. By automatically switching between “motor only,” “motor driving while generating electricity with the engine,” and “direct engine driving” depending on the driving situation, it combines excellent fuel efficiency with powerful driving performance.
Driving performance tuned exclusively for Japan
The new CR-V e:HEV RS is a Japan-exclusive model that features changes to the suspension, powertrain, and chassis control systems compared to the standard hybrid model sold overseas. Tuned with an emphasis on driving performance, it pursues the driving pleasure for which Honda is known.
In particular, the CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION features exclusive black accents on the interior and exterior, combining sophisticated sportiness with a sense of quality, visually expressing the car’s high driving performance.
Exterior design of the new CR-V
A design that differentiates it from fuel cell vehicles
The exterior of the new CR-V e:HEV RS features a design that clearly differentiates it from the fuel cell vehicle, the CR-V e:FCEV.
Exterior Features:
- Sharp-looking headlight design
- A special grille that emphasizes a bold look
- Powerful SUV-style rear design
- Imposing proportions thanks to the enlarged body size
The BLACK EDITION features black interior and exterior accents, emphasizing a sporty and high-quality impression. Black accents are used on the wheels, grille, mirrors, etc., visually highlighting the car’s high driving performance.
Body size significantly larger than the previous generation
New CR-V body size:
- Total length: 4,805mm
- Overall width: 1,865mm
- Overall height: 1,690mm
- Wheelbase: 2,700mm
Compared to the previous generation CR-V, the overall length has been increased by 200mm and the wheelbase by 40mm, resulting in a significantly larger interior space, improving passenger comfort and luggage space practicality.
Reference: Body size of previous generation CR-V
- Total length: 4,605mm
- Overall width: 1,855mm
- Overall height: 1,680mm
- Wheelbase: 2,660mm
Size comparison with the ZR-V
- ZR-V overall length: 4,570mm (235mm shorter than the CR-V)
- ZR-V wheelbase: 2,655mm (45mm shorter than the CR-V)
The CR-V has a larger body size than the ZR-V, giving it a more premium position in Honda’s SUV lineup.
Interior design and advanced features
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
Adoption of a digital cockpit
The interior of the new CR-V has been significantly improved in usability by incorporating the latest digital technology.
Key interior features:
- Latest digital meter panel (capable of displaying a wide variety of information)
- A new generation infotainment system with connected services
- Improved comfort through expanded interior space
- Luxurious finish using high-quality materials
The digital meter clearly displays information necessary for driving, such as navigation information, the operating status of safety driving support systems, and vehicle information, allowing the driver to instantly grasp the information they need while minimizing eye movement.
Luggage space and practicality
As the body size has increased, so has the luggage space. The powerful SUV-style rear design ensures a large luggage space. It is practical for a variety of occasions, from everyday shopping to leisure and long-distance travel.
The fuel cell vehicle CR-V e:FCEV is equipped with a flexible board that covers the hydrogen tank with a flat, shelf-like surface, allowing the luggage compartment to be divided into two levels, upper and lower, and similar practicality is expected in the hybrid model.
Honda SENSING, an advanced safety driving support system
Full safety features as standard on all vehicles
All new CR-Vs will come standard with Honda’s latest advanced safety driver assistance system, Honda SENSING.
Main features of Honda SENSING:
- Wide-angle front wide-view camera
- Equipped with a total of eight sonar sensors, front and rear
- Expansion of existing functions
- Addition of short-distance collision mitigation braking
- ACC (Adaptive Cruise Control) with Traffic Jam Following Function
The combination of a wide-angle camera and sonar sensor allows for more accurate detection over a wider area than previous models, helping to quickly identify pedestrians, vehicles, and obstacles and avoid danger.
Comfortable long-distance driving with traffic jam following function
ACC with Traffic Jam Following is particularly effective when stuck in traffic on expressways and expressways. It automatically accelerates and decelerates to follow the vehicle ahead, and even stops and starts again. This significantly reduces driver fatigue, making long-distance driving more comfortable.
Fuel efficiency and environmental performance
Excellent fuel economy thanks to the e:HEV system
The fuel economy of the new CR-V e:HEV RS has decreased slightly from the previous generation due to the increased body size, but the latest e:HEV system still ensures practical fuel economy.
Fuel economy (reference value):
- Hybrid model: Approximately 40mpg (US value/approximately 17.1km/L)
- Gasoline model: Approximately 30mpg (US value/approximately 12.8km/L) *Overseas model
Fuel economy of previous generation CR-V (reference):
- Hybrid: 21.2km/L (WLTC mode)
- 1.5L Turbo: 14.2km/L (WLTC mode)
The e:HEV system achieves excellent fuel economy even in real-world driving by efficiently using the engine and motor. By utilizing the electric motor’s efficient range in urban driving and the engine’s efficient power in highway driving, the system optimizes overall fuel economy.
Pricing and Competitive Comparison
Starting price from 5 million yen
The price of the new CR-V e:HEV RS is expected to start at around 5 million yen, which is significantly more affordable than the 8,094,900 yen of the fuel cell vehicle “CR-V e:FCEV.”
New CR-V price structure (estimated):
- CR-V e:HEV RS: Approximately 5 million yen
- CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION: From approximately 5.5 million yen
- CR-V e:FCEV (fuel cell vehicle): 8,094,900 yen
Price of previous generation CR-V (reference):
- 1.5L Turbo EX: From 3,361,600 yen
- Hybrid e:HEV EX: From 3,925,900 yen
- Hybrid e:HEV BLACK EDITION: 4,338,400 yen
The new CR-V’s price has increased from the previous generation due to its improved equipment and larger body size, but its quality and performance have been significantly improved.
Comparison with competing models
Main competing models:
- Toyota RAV4: Approximately 3 million to 5 million yen
- Mazda CX-5: Approximately ¥2.9 million to ¥4.2 million
- Nissan X-Trail: Approximately 3.5 million to 5 million yen
- Subaru Outback: Approximately 4 million to 4.3 million yen
The new CR-V is priced at the higher end of the mid-range SUV market, but considering its latest hybrid system, comprehensive safety features, and spacious interior, it can be said to be a competitively priced vehicle.
CR-V history and global expansion
Honda’s iconic SUV celebrates its 30th anniversary
The first generation CR-V was released in 1995, and will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2025. With cumulative global sales exceeding 15 million units, the CR-V is now sold in over 150 countries and regions, making it Honda’s flagship global model.
History of the CR-V:
- First generation (1995-2001): Introduced as a Civic-based crossover SUV
- Second generation (2001-2006): Improved livability and practicality
- Third generation (2006-2011): Adopted global light truck platform
- Fourth generation (2011-2016): Significant improvement in quality
- 5th generation (2016-2022): 1.5L turbo and hybrid available
- 6th generation (2023 onwards): Fuel cell vehicle and hybrid lineup
Positioning in the Japanese market
In the Japanese market, sales of the fifth-generation CR-V will end in December 2022, and the new ZR-V will be introduced. However, due to its popularity globally, the sixth-generation will return to Japan as a fuel cell vehicle in July 2024. And now, with the addition of a hybrid model, full-scale deployment in the Japanese market will begin.
The CR-V is positioned above the ZR-V and serves as the flagship SUV for users looking for more interior space and more comprehensive equipment.
Highly acclaimed in the North American market
The CR-V is particularly popular in the North American market. Following its launch in North America in 2022, it will also be rolled out in Europe, China, and Southeast Asia, where it has been well-received by many users for its comfortable interior space and powerful driving performance.
In North America, Honda is aggressively marketing the car as one of its flagship models, including airing a television commercial during the American football festival, the Super Bowl (with advertising fees of approximately 600 million yen for 30 seconds).
Towards a December 2025 release
Japan debut at Japan Mobility Show 2025
The new CR-V e:HEV RS was unveiled for the first time in Japan at the Honda booth at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 (open to the public from October 31 to November 9, 2025). The prototype on display provides an opportunity to see the actual vehicle up close.
Advance information release
Ahead of its launch, Honda has released information about the new CR-V e:HEV RS on its official website. Detailed information on specs, equipment, design, and more is being released one after another, generating a lot of interest even before the car’s release.
Scheduled for release this winter
The official release date is scheduled for December 2025. The launch will coincide with the year-end sales season, and Honda hopes to strengthen its brand power by expanding the CR-V’s powertrain lineup.
Why choose the new CR-V?
1. Combining practicality and driving performance
The new CR-V e:HEV RS combines practicality with a spacious interior and large luggage space, along with the powerful driving performance of the e:HEV system. Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of uses, from everyday use to leisure and long-distance drives.
2. Latest safety technology
Honda SENSING is standard equipment on all vehicles, providing comprehensive preventative safety features to protect the safety of your family. The high-precision detection capabilities of the wide-angle camera and multiple sensors provide peace of mind even for drivers who are not confident in their driving skills.
3. Environmental friendliness
The excellent fuel economy of the e:HEV system is both environmentally friendly and reduces running costs, significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to gasoline-powered vehicles.
4. Honda brand reliability
With a 30-year history and a global sales record of over 15 million units, the CR-V is a testament to Honda’s advanced technology and quality. Its reliability and durability, cultivated over many years, provide value that allows you to drive it with peace of mind for many years to come.
5. High-quality design and texture
The sophisticated exterior design and luxurious interior make it a joy to own. The BLACK EDITION in particular combines sportiness and high quality, providing a level of satisfaction that is second to none.
Summary: A new era flagship SUV
The new Honda CR-V e:HEV RS is a flagship SUV for a new era, combining the latest hybrid technology, comprehensive safety features, and a spacious interior.
When it goes on sale in December 2025, together with the e:FCEV fuel cell vehicle, there will be a wide range of options to meet diverse user needs. The price, starting at 5 million yen, is higher than the previous generation, but the improved value and performance make it worth the price.
The globally acclaimed sixth-generation CR-V hybrid model is finally being fully launched in the Japanese market, adding a new option to the mid-size SUV market. The new CR-V e:HEV RS, which combines practicality, driving performance, environmental friendliness and comfort at a high level, will be an attractive option for many users.
After being exhibited at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, the official release at the end of the year is eagerly awaited. The new CR-V e:HEV RS, which will be launched in the milestone year of the 30th anniversary, is expected to play a central role in Honda’s SUV lineup and will be a great success in the future.
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