The 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid had high expectations after I’ve driven its larger family members. Although the CR-V came in a silver color, it was a dark shade that looked nice and it also works well with the black accents. The black grille is sunken in compared to the bumpers, which makes it seam as its wearing a spartan helmet. Getting to the wheels, the 19” size fit the wheel wells nicely and the large tire sidewall provides comfort from road bumps. In the rear you’ll find the iconic vertical taillights that have been a staple for the CR-V model.

Getting in, I was greeted with Honda’s gray interior that looks more white than gray. The seats were incredibly comfortable and ergonomic which are perfect for long road trips. Unfortunately there isn’t a vented options but you will be able to use the warmers during winter months. I did find it amusing that the CR-V uses the Trailsport orange color for the seat stitching. Unfortunately the CR-V isn’t offered in a Trailsport trim and it is most likely due to the CVT offering instead of a standard automatic offering.

Under the hood, the 2.0L hybrid 4-cylinder is cranking out 145 horsepower and 138 lb.-ft. of torque. You’ll definitely feel that it is pushing under 200 horsepower specially through the CVT and then the AWD drivetrain. The hybrid does help from a stop to get the CR-V up and going, but felt it struggled at higher highway passing speeds.

Overall I was loving the 2025 Honda CR-V for its comfort and simplicity. This loaner made me want to search for a first generation CR-V to build as a light off-roader.