Honda’s new CR-V e:HEV RS , scheduled for release on February 27, 2026 , is attracting attention due to a significant price change from the previous model. Advance reservations began on December 12, 2025, and many users are already interested in the price change.
The full story of the much-anticipated CR-V e:HEV RS price revision
In this article, we will take a detailed look at the price fluctuations of the new CR-V e:HEV , which has undergone a full model change, and provide a comprehensive explanation of the actual estimated price, the amount of price increase, and points to consider when considering purchasing.
Price comparison with previous model: Examining the surprising price increase
Price range of the previous model (5th generation)
CR V BLACK EDITION
The previous CR-V Hybrid (e:HEV) was priced as follows:
- e:HEV EX (5-seater) : 3,925,900 yen
- e:HEV EX Masterpiece (5-seater) : 4,250,400 yen
- e:HEV BLACK EDITION (5-seater) : 4,338,400 yen
The cheapest grade was priced at approximately 3.92 million yen, and the highest grade was priced at approximately 4.34 million yen.
Price of the new (6th generation) CR-V e:HEV RS
CR-V e:HEV RS
The new CR-V e:HEV RS after the full model change:
- e:HEV RS(FF/2WD) : 5,122,700 yen
- e:HEV RS (4WD) : 5,392,200 yen
- e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION (4WD) : 5,779,400 yen
Detailed analysis of price increases
Comparison between entry grade models
Comparing the previous model “e:HEV EX” (3,925,900 yen) with the new “e:HEV RS (FF)” (5,122,700 yen):
- Price increase: 1,196,800 yen (approximately 1.2 million yen)
- Price increase rate: Approximately 30.5%
Comparison between top grades
Comparing the previous model “e:HEV BLACK EDITION” (4,338,400 yen) with the new “e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION” (5,779,400 yen):
- Price increase: 1,441,000 yen (approximately 1.44 million yen)
- Price increase rate: Approximately 33.2%
This significant price increase is due to factors such as an increase in body size, the installation of the latest e:HEV system, significant improvements to safety equipment, and the adoption of a new generation platform that will also include a fuel cell vehicle.
Why did the price increase so much? A thorough look at the improvements in equipment and performance.
1. Significant increase in body size
CR-V e:HEV
New CR-V
- Length x width x height: 4,805 x 1,865 x 1,690 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,700mm
Previous model (5th generation)
- Length x width x height: 4,605 x 1,855 x 1,680 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,660mm
Changes
- Total length: +200mm
- Overall width: +10mm
- Overall height: +10mm
- Wheelbase: +40mm
The increased body size has resulted in a significant improvement in interior space, particularly in rear seat comfort and luggage space.
2. Evolution of the innovative e:HEV system
The new CR-V is equipped with a two-speed direct-coupled engine gearbox (high/low) developed exclusively for the new CR-V . For the first time in a Honda model, a low-gear engine drive mode has been added.
Powertrain specs
- Engine: 2.0L inline 4-cylinder
- Engine output: 145ps/17.8kgm
- Motor output: 184ps/32.1kgm
- Drive system: FF or 4WD
This system allows the CR-V to achieve both an exhilarating, high-quality ride and excellent environmental performance at a high level.
3. First Japanese SUV to feature Honda SENSING 360
BLACK EDITION model exclusive equipment
Honda SENSING 360 is a major evolution of the previous Honda SENSING system, and includes:
- Wider angle of view for radar and cameras
- New corner radar added
- Expanding safety support areas
Main new features
- Assistance to avoid head-on collisions at intersections
- Assistance for passing oncoming vehicles
- Dealing with downhill slopes, crosswinds, broken white lines, etc.
- Lane change assistance on highways
- Overtaking maneuver assistance
- Accident prevention steering control
4. Latest infotainment system
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
Standard equipment for all grades
- 10.2-inch full LCD meter
- 9-inch Honda CONNECT Display Audio with Google
- BOSE 12-speaker sound system
Equipment that was only available on some grades in the previous model is now standard on all grades.
5. Ample comfort equipment
Standard equipment on 2WD models
- Driver and passenger seat heaters
- 8-way power driver’s seat
- 4-way power passenger seat
- LED lighting system (headlights and taillights)
- 19-inch noise-reducing aluminum wheels
4WD model additional equipment
- Rear seat heaters (rear seats left and right)
- Heated steering wheel
6. Adoption of a new generation platform
The car uses the same next-generation platform as the fuel cell vehicle “CR-V e:FCEV,” which improves rigidity and quietness, and enables future electrification.
Price comparison with competitors: What is the CR-V’s value for money?
Comparison with Toyota RAV4
RAV4 Adventure
RAV4 Hybrid
- Adventure: 4,345,000 yen
- GZ package: 4,686,000 yen
The new CR-V e:HEV RS is about 800,000 to 1.1 million yen more expensive than the RAV4 Hybrid, but considering the body size, equipment included, and advanced powertrain, it is not necessarily overpriced.
Comparison with Mazda CX-5
CX-5
CX-5 (25S L Package)
- 2WD: 3,362,500 yen
- 4WD: 3,588,500 yen
Compared to the CX-5, the price difference is about 1.7 to 1.8 million yen, but the CX-5 is not a hybrid but only has a gasoline engine, and its body size is one size smaller, so it can be said to be in a different class.
Comparison with Honda ZR-V
ZR-V
ZR-V e:HEV
- e:HEV X: 3,499,100 yen
- e:HEV Z: 3,844,300 yen
Compared to the Honda ZR-V, the price difference is about 1.3 to 1.7 million yen. However, the CR-V:
- Overall length is 235mm longer
- Wheelbase is 45mm longer
- Adoption of a higher-level platform
- Fully equipped
Taking these factors into consideration, the CR-V is clearly differentiated as a higher-end model than the ZR-V.
Things to consider when purchasing: 10 points to check when getting a quote
1. Dashcams aren’t standard equipment
Surprisingly for an SUV in this price range, a dashcam is available as a dealer option (70,290 yen). If you need one, be sure to include it in your quote.
2. ETC2.0 onboard units are also an additional cost
The ETC2.0 onboard unit is not standard equipment, but is a dealer option (45,760 yen). It is essential equipment for those who frequently use the expressway.
3. Paid body color is 44,000 yen
Colors other than the standard colors (such as Slate Gray Pearl and Premium Crystal Red Metallic) will incur an additional cost of 44,000 yen.
4. Honda SENSING 360 is only available in BLACK EDITION
The latest safety equipment, “Honda SENSING 360,” is only standard on the top-of-the-line “RS BLACK EDITION” grade. If you want this equipment, you need to be careful when choosing the grade.
5. Check fuel economy
The new CR-V e:HEV RS’s fuel economy is slightly down from the previous model:
- Previous model : 21.2km/L (WLTC mode)
- New model : Approximately 17.1km/L (US equivalent)
This is due to the larger body size, but those who drive a lot each year should also take fuel costs into consideration.
6. Confirmation of delivery date
Pre-orders will begin on December 12, 2025, with the car scheduled for release on February 27, 2026. However, delivery times may be longer for popular models, so we recommend placing your order early.
7. Negotiate the trade-in price
If you currently own a CR-V or other Honda vehicle, negotiating the trade-in price is also important. With the introduction of new models, the trade-in market price for older models may change.
8. Consider a maintenance package
The total payment amount will vary depending on whether or not you include a maintenance package in the miscellaneous fees. If you plan to keep the equipment for a long time, subscribing to a package may be more cost-effective.
9. Use of residual value loans
In the price range of around 5.6 to 6.3 million yen, it is worth considering taking out a residual value loan, which may reduce your monthly payments.
10. Comparison with Fuel Cell Vehicle e:FCEV
The CR-V e:FCEV (8,094,900 yen) is also an option. If there is a hydrogen station nearby or environmental performance is your top priority, it is worth comparing and considering.
Which grade should you choose? Recommended grades by application
If cost performance is your priority, choose the “e:HEV RS (2WD)”
Vehicle price : 5,122,700 yen
Estimated total payment amount : Approximately 5.6 million yen
- The cheapest grade
- Basic equipment is complete
- Adequate driving performance even with FF
- Ideal for those who drive a small distance each year and do not need to drive on snowy roads
For rough roads and snowy roads, choose the “e:HEV RS (4WD)”
Vehicle price : 5,392,200 yen
Estimated total payment amount : Approximately 5.88 million yen
- Equipped with 4WD system
- Heated rear seats and heated steering wheel are standard equipment.
- Ideal for use in snowy and mountainous areas
- Recommended for those who enjoy outdoor leisure activities
If you prioritize the latest safety features, choose the “e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION (4WD)”
Vehicle price : 5,779,400 yen
Estimated total payment amount : Approximately 6.27 million yen
- Equipped with Honda SENSING 360 (first in Japan for a Honda SUV)
- Head-up display as standard
- BLACK EDITION exclusive exterior
- Ideal for those who prioritize safety and drive long distances
Tips for bargaining: To get the best deal possible
1. Take advantage of the benefits available during the pre-order period
During the pre-order period, dealers may offer special benefits and preferential interest rates. Early negotiations are advantageous.
2. Get quotes for competing vehicles
By getting quotes for competing models such as the RAV4, CX-5, and X-Trail and letting them know that you are comparing them, you can use this as leverage in negotiating a discount.
3. Adjustment with optional items
If it is difficult to get a discount on the vehicle price, you can also get dealer options (floor mats, dashcams, etc.) as a service.
4. Target the end of the fiscal year and bonus period
The fiscal year ends in March, the interim fiscal year ends in September, and bonus periods are times when dealers are looking to increase sales, making negotiations easier.
5. Consider whether to pay in cash or take out a loan
Some dealers may offer better deals on financing. Compare the interest rate and total payment amount to make a decision.
Summary: Is the CR-V e:HEV RS priced right?
The new CR-V e:HEV RS has seen a significant price increase of approximately ¥1.2 million to ¥1.4 million (30-33%) over the previous model. However, there are good reasons for this price increase:
Key factors justifying the price increase
- Significant increase in body size (total length +200mm, wheelbase +40mm)
- Newly developed e:HEV system (equipped with two-stage engine direct-coupled gear)
- Honda SENSING 360 installed (BLACK EDITION only)
- The latest infotainment system is standard on all grades
- Adoption of a new generation platform
- Greatly enhanced comfort features
comprehensive evaluation
- Total payment : Approximately 5.6 million yen (2WD) to 6.27 million yen (BLACK EDITION)
- Price increase : Approximately 1.2 million to 1.44 million yen compared to the previous model
- Competitive comparison : Competitive when considering equipment
- Cost performance : Reasonable price considering the level of equipment
The new CR-V e:HEV RS is certainly significantly more expensive than its predecessor, but when you consider the overall improvements in body size, equipment, performance, and safety technology, it’s by no means overpriced. In particular, the BLACK EDITION equipped with Honda SENSING 360 is a very attractive option for an SUV in this price range.
If you are considering purchasing one, we recommend that you test drive it at a dealer, check the equipment, and then choose the grade that best suits your needs and budget.
