In December 2025, Honda’s long-awaited hybrid model “e:HEV RS” of the mid-size SUV ” CR-V ” will be released in the Japanese market. This model, which was unveiled for the first time at the Japan Mobility Show 2025, will be released as a sporty grade that prioritizes driving performance, with a different appeal from the CR-V e:FCEV, which was previously introduced as a fuel cell vehicle.
The long-awaited hybrid model finally arrives in Japan
CR-V e:HEV
The CR-V was reinstated in the Japanese market in July 2024 as a fuel cell vehicle, but the overwhelming majority of customers said they had been waiting for a hybrid model. In this article, we take a detailed look at the actual exhibit vehicle and thoroughly explain the advantages and disadvantages of the CR-V e:HEV RS.
Appealing exterior design – Excellent points
Refined front mask
CR-V e:HEV
The most striking aspect of the CR-V e:HEV RS’s exterior is its front design, which is clearly differentiated from fuel cell vehicles .
What makes it great:
- Large gloss black grille – Expresses a bold, authentic SUV style
- Sharp headlight design – Sharp and intelligent impression
- High-quality black parts – Gloss black finish is used throughout, including the grille surround, fog lamp bezel, and front lip.
- Large honeycomb grille – combines sportiness and luxury
Of particular note is that the black parts on the grille and lower part of the bumper are not simply made of plastic, but are made of a material with a sparkling texture , which changes appearance depending on how the light hits it, creating a high-quality atmosphere.
CR-V FCEV
Sporty side view
CR-V e:HEV
The silhouette seen from the side is also attractive.
What makes it great:
- Three-dimensional design of the fender arch – The carved character line emphasizes the presence of the fender
- 19-inch exclusive aluminum wheels – The combination of gloss black and machined brilliance tightens the feet.
- Equipped with Michelin Latitude Sport 3 – 235/55R19 high-performance tires (RS grade)
- Blacked-out pillars and mirrors – dark tones throughout, including the roof rails
- Gloss black side lower moldings – unify the overall design
The overall length is slightly shorter than the e:FCEV, giving it a more compact impression . It is also slightly larger than the ZR-V, giving it a premium feel.
Powerful rear design
CR-V e:HEV
The rear view is also not to be missed.
What makes it great:
- Distinctive tail lamp design – Horizontally-oriented design that gives a wide impression
- Gloss black rear bumper – Diffuser shape gives a sense of driving performance
- Integrated muffler finisher – a design that works, not just a dummy
- RS badge and BLACK EDITION emblem – assert your exclusivity
CR-V e:HEV
The rear design is the same as the e:FCEV, but is coordinated with the black grille at the front, creating a unified and sophisticated style .
Interior design and equipment – what’s great
High-quality interior space
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
Once inside, you’ll find an interior with particularly high-quality feel, even among Honda vehicles .
What makes it great:
- A combination of gloss black and hairline finishes – high-quality materials used throughout, including the dashboard, center console, and door panels
- Ambient Light – Soft indirect lighting for door panels and center console
- Extensive use of soft pads – Almost all touchable areas, such as the top of the dashboard, door armrests, and center console, are made of soft material
- Quilted pattern seat – Three-dimensional design with honeycomb pattern in the center
- Metal accelerator pedal – sporty equipment typical of the RS grade
Of particular note is the quality of the lighting at night . The lighting design, which has been carefully thought out down to the smallest detail, including ambient lighting, backlit USB ports, and illuminated door pockets, enhances the luxurious feel.
Fully equipped for comfort
Excellent equipment:
- Heated front seats and seat ventilation – Comfortable in both summer and winter (*Equipped on the display vehicle)
- Heated steering wheel – a rare feature on Honda vehicles
- Panoramic roof – Openable sunroof for a great sense of openness
- 10-inch digital meter – Latest digital meter with excellent visibility
- 9-inch Display Audio – Google Built-in Compatible
- Head-up display – A display system that allows you to concentrate on driving (configurable)
- Power seats (driver’s seat and passenger seat) – lumbar support can be adjusted up and down
- Power tailgate – remote operation available
Unfortunately, it is not yet confirmed whether seat ventilation will be adopted in the Japanese model , but the display vehicle was equipped with it, so we can hope for it. Also, the lack of a 1500W external power supply function is a disappointing point for a hybrid SUV.
Ease of use of the operation system
What makes it great:
- Button-operated electronic shifting – Realizes a clean center console
- Gloss black control panel – high-quality finish
- Independent temperature control for left and right air conditioning – Individually adjust comfort for front seats
- Drive mode selector – Switches between ECON/NORMAL/SPORT modes (it is unclear whether there is an INDIVIDUAL mode)
- Honda Parking Pilot – Equipped with automatic parking assistance function
- Hill Descent Control – Helps you descend steep slopes safely
Interior space and practicality – what’s great about it
Spacious rear seat space
With the driver in the rear seat in the driving position:
- Space in front of the knee : More than 3 fists
- Headroom : Plenty of room
- Legroom : Flat floor for sitting with legs spread apart
- Seat : Long seat and large backrest for good support
This spaciousness makes it the perfect size SUV for Japan’s road environment, surpassing the ZR-V.
Rear seat comfort features
What makes it great:
- Reclining function – angle adjustable
- Heated rear seats – likely standard on 4WD models
- 2 USB Type-C ports – Backlit for easy nighttime use
- Independent left and right air conditioning vents – Considering rear seat comfort
- Seatback pockets – equipped on both the driver’s and passenger’s seats
Practical luggage space
What makes it great:
- Spacious luggage room – deep enough with two-row seating
- Low luggage compartment floor – easy loading and unloading
- Folding rear seats – Realizes a nearly flat cargo space (with slight steps)
- 180W accessory socket – power in the luggage compartment
- Luggage underspace – some storage space available
- LED luggage lamp – Makes luggage visible at night
Powertrain and driving performance – what’s great about it
2.0L e:HEV inherited from the Accord
The CR-V e:HEV RS is equipped with the same 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine and dual-motor e:HEV system as the Accord .
Specs:
- Engine output : 145ps/17.8kgm
- Motor output : 184ps/32.1kgm
- Drive system : FF (2WD) / Real-time AWD (4WD)
What makes it great:
- Electric motor-driven driving – powerful acceleration from the start
- Seamless driving mode switching – Automatically selects EV driving, hybrid driving, or direct-engine driving depending on the situation
- Excellent fuel economy – approximately 17.1km/L (US EPA value)
- Real-time AWD – 4WD performance for peace of mind on snowy and rough roads (4WD model)
- Quiet driving – smooth acceleration unique to e:HEV
However, it is a bit disappointing that it is a conventional system rather than the new generation e:HEV that will be installed in the new Prelude , and that there is no Honda S+ Shift option .
RS-specific tuning that emphasizes driving performance
What makes it great:
- Special suspension settings – changed from the overseas standard specifications
- Powertrain control optimization – RS-specific tuning
- Improved chassis control system – Japan-specific settings
- Equipped with paddle shifters – Regenerative braking can be adjusted
These special tunings make this RS more than just a hybrid SUV; it’s a car that’s fun to drive .
Safety equipment – what’s great about it
Equipped with the latest Honda SENSING
Standard advanced safety features include:
- Front wide-view camera – Wide-angle detection of the front
- 8 sonar sensors – located at the front and rear of the vehicle
- Short-distance collision mitigation brake – Expanded functionality from previous models
- ACC with traffic jam following function – Reduces fatigue on highways
- Lane Keeping Assist System – Supporting safe driving
These features will make systems that reduce driver burden and increase safety standard on all vehicles.
Body size and handling
Perfect size
CR-V e:HEV RS body dimensions:
- Total length x width x height : 4805 x 1865 x 1690mm
- Wheelbase : 2700mm
Comparison:
- ZR-V : 4570×1840×1620mm / WB:2655mm
- Previous generation CR-V : 4605×1855×1680mm / WB:2660mm
What makes it great:
- Expanded from the previous generation – Overall length increased by 200mm and wheelbase increased by 40mm to ensure interior space
- One size larger than the ZR-V – a premium size
- A size suited to Japan’s road environment – an excellent balance of maneuverability and spaciousness
- Fits in parking lots – 1865mm width fits most multi-story parking lots
CR-V e:HEV RS grade structure and price range
Simple grade lineup
The CR-V e:HEV being introduced for the Japanese market will not be available in multiple grades like the Vezel, but will be limited to just the e:HEV RS .
Grade lineup:
- CR-V e:HEV RS [2WD/4WD]
- CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION [4WD only]
CR-V e:HEV RS BLACK EDITION
The top-of-the-line grade “BLACK EDITION” is available only with four-wheel drive and features a sporty appearance with exclusive black accents.
Expected price range
Vehicle prices are expected to be as follows:
- RS 2WD : Approximately 5 million yen
- RS 4WD : Approximately 5.3 million yen
- RS BLACK EDITION : Approximately 6 million yen
The BLACK EDITION is expected to come standard with a BOSE premium sound system, heated front and rear seats, seat ventilation, a 9-inch display audio (Google built-in Honda CONNECT), a head-up display, and more.
- CR-V e:FCEV : 8,094,900 yen
Disappointing points and points of concern
So far I’ve introduced the excellent points, but there were a few things that bothered me when I saw the actual car.
1. No digital inner mirror setting
The bad points:
- In the Honda lineup, the only car that uses a digital inner mirror (advanced room mirror) is the Step WGN, which is a dealer option.
- Features that should be standard on premium SUVs like the CR-V
- Effective for ensuring rear visibility and improving nighttime visibility
2. Navigation screen size
Points to note:
- 9-inch display – Built-in Google support is attractive
- However, in recent SUVs, 10-inch or larger wheels are the norm.
- If it had a larger screen, it might have been easier to use.
3. No external 1500W power supply
The bad points:
- Only 180W accessory socket in luggage compartment
- If you have a hybrid SUV, a 1500W external power supply would be very useful for camping or in emergencies.
- Features that come standard on Toyota and Mazda hybrid SUVs
4. It’s not a new-generation e:HEV
Points to note:
- The new Prelude will be equipped with the new generation e:HEV
- The CR-V uses a conventional e:HEV system.
- There is no Honda S+ Shift setting either.
- The powertrain is sufficient, but it may not be enough for those who were expecting the latest technology.
5. Body color options
Points to note:
- The Slate Gray Pearl on display is very attractive
- However, it is unclear whether this color is exclusive to the BLACK EDITION or whether it is also available for the RS grade.
- Details of the color variations are awaited
6. High prices
Points to note:
- Estimated price: 5.3 million to over 6 million yen
- The starting price for the previous generation CR-V was in the 3.3 million yen range.
- The equipment is excellent, but the price is inevitably going to rise.
- The price difference with the ZR-V must also be taken into consideration.
7. No plans for a nationwide advance exhibition
The bad points:
- There are no plans for a nationwide exhibition before the release.
- If you want to see the actual car, you’ll have to wait for it to be released at a dealership.
- Only a select few could see it at the Japan Mobility Show
Summary – Is the CR-V e:HEV RS worth buying?
Summary of the advantages
The Honda CR-V e:HEV RS is a very attractive SUV because:
✅Sophisticated interior and exterior design – High-quality finish effectively using gloss black
✅Spacious interior – The perfect size for Japan’s road environment
✅Full of comfortable features – Heated seats, panoramic roof, latest infotainment
✅RS -specific tuning that prioritizes driving – A driving pleasure that goes beyond just a practical SUV
✅2.0L e:HEV inherited from the Accord – Powerful and smooth driving
✅High quality – Top-class interior quality among Honda vehicles
Summary of disappointing points
However, there is room for improvement in the following areas:
❌ No digital inner mirror – a shame for a premium SUV
❌ No 1500W external power supply – not making full use of the advantages of hybrids
❌ Not a new generation e:HEV – a gap between expectations and the latest technology
❌ High price – a significant increase from the previous generation
Recommended for:
The CR-V e:HEV RS is perfect for:
- ✔ People who feel that ZR-V is a little lacking
- ✔ People who want to enjoy a sporty driving experience in a mid-size SUV
- ✔ People who want high-quality interiors
- ✔ People who want the fuel efficiency and driving performance of a hybrid
- ✔ Families who prioritize spaciousness in the back seat
People who should consider other cars:
- ✔ People on a budget (considering ZR-V and Vezel)
- ✔ People looking for the latest in hybrid technology
- ✔ People who value disaster prevention equipment such as external power supplies
Release date and future developments
Release Schedule
- Scheduled release date : December 2025
- Advance information : Some information is available on the official website
- Test drives : Expected to be available at dealerships shortly before release
Points to watch in the future
- Official vehicle price – Can it be kept in the low 5 million yen range?
- Seat ventilation – Availability in Japan
- Body color lineup – Slate Gray Pearl selection
- Can we achieve actual fuel economy of 17km/L?
- Delivery time – When will the car be delivered if ordered immediately after release?
Comparison with competing models
Differences from ZR-V e:HEV
ZR-V BLACK STYLE
CR-V Advantages:
- The body size is slightly larger and the interior is spacious.
- The texture is more luxurious
- The RS grade also emphasizes driving performance
ZR-V is superior in:
- Low price (approximately 3.3 million to 4.3 million yen)
- Easy to handle
- Slightly better fuel economy
Comparison with Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
toyota rav4 adventure
CR-V Advantages:
- Interior quality and innovation
- Smooth driving of the 2.0L e:HEV
- Sophistication of design
RAV4 Advantages:
- 1500W external power supply
- E-Four 4WD performance
- High resale value
Comparison with Mazda CX-60
MAZDA CX-60
CR-V Advantages:
- Hybrid fuel economy
- Rear seat space
- Advanced safety equipment
CX-60 Advantages:
- Luxury interior (higher grade)
- The appeal of straight-six engines (gasoline/diesel)
- FR-based driving
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the difference between the CR-V e:HEV and e:FCEV?
A: The e:HEV is a hybrid with a 2.0L engine and electric motor. The e:FCEV is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle. The e:HEV is significantly cheaper and more practical.
Q2: Which is better, 2WD or 4WD?
A: If you mainly live in urban areas, a 2WD is sufficient. If you drive on snowy roads or spend a lot of time outdoors, a 4WD is recommended. The price difference is expected to be around 200,000 to 300,000 yen.
Q3: Which should I choose, ZR-V or ZR-V?
A: If you’re on a budget, then the ZR-V is the way to go, but if you’re looking for spaciousness and quality, then the CR-V is the way to go. I recommend you actually compare the two cars.
Q4:How long is your delivery time?
A: It is expected to be popular immediately after release, so it may take 3-6 months. It is best to order early to ensure availability.
Q5: Is there a 7-seater option?
A: The Japanese model is only available as a five-seater. If you want three rows of seats, consider the Step Wagon or Freed.
Conclusion
The Honda CR-V e:HEV RS is a long-awaited hybrid model that will finally be launched in the Japanese market in December 2025. The actual car I saw at the Japan Mobility Show was of a higher quality than I expected, and its sporty and sophisticated design was impressive.
Although there are some disappointing aspects, such as the lack of a digital inner mirror or a 1500W external power supply, there are many attractive points, such as the overall high level of perfection, the spacious interior, and the RS-specific tuning that emphasizes driving performance .
The price is not cheap, ranging from the mid-5 million to over 6 million yen range, but considering the quality and equipment included, it can be said to be a reasonable price .
For those who are not satisfied with the ZR-V but would like to avoid an imported car, this may be the perfect choice . We can’t wait for its release.
We will provide more details once official pricing and test drive reports are released.
