Table of Contents
First Impressions and Everyday Tweaks
After a full year behind the wheel of the 2024 Honda CR‑V Sport Touring Hybrid, the owner has a clear picture of what the vehicle delivers and what it misses. The car has accumulated 13,500 miles over 13 months, a modest distance that still reveals the nuances of a hybrid SUV in everyday use.
One of the first changes made was swapping the stock all‑season tires for Kumo HA32 Soloulless all‑weather tires. They give noticeably more grip in the cold, especially when cornering and braking, the owner notes, praising the tires’ quietness and smoothness. The all‑weather set is rated for three‑peak mountain snow, allowing the vehicle to stay on the same tires year‑round without a significant MPG penalty.
Interior protection was another priority. The leather seats had held up well, but the floor liners were replaced with Real Truck’s Husky units. The mats have a perfect fit and keep snow melt from pooling under the seats, the owner explains, highlighting the practical benefit of the reinforced rubber and side walls that prevent water from seeping into the carpet.
"I still think it's one of the best looking cars in the segment." – Owner
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
When it comes to handling, the CR‑V feels noticeably more smooth, more refined behind the wheel. The steering is described as classic Honda, offering confidence under braking and a pleasant ride on both city streets and the open highway. The hybrid system’s integration is smooth, with no abrupt torque kicks that are sometimes felt in other all‑wheel‑drive competitors.
Comfort is a strong point. The rear seats are among the largest in the segment, and the cargo area is enormous, making the vehicle suitable for family trips, moving landscaping materials, or hauling pet gear. The owner mentions that the air vents are a bit low, but this is considered typical for the class.
Track tests and off‑road excursions were also part of the evaluation. On the track, the CR‑V performed better than the older RAV4, offering better steering and confidence, though it was slower due to lower power. Off‑road trials with a Trail Sport trim and all‑terrain tires showed the vehicle could handle light off‑road duties, though the ride quality on pavement was compromised.
Fuel Economy Reality Check
Fuel economy is the single most significant drawback. While the EPA rating for the hybrid is around 50 mpg on the highway, real‑world numbers have averaged just over 31 mpg after 9,000 miles. The system is less efficient in the winter than it is in the summer, the owner explains, noting that the hybrid’s electric motor rarely reaches full power in cold conditions, and the all‑wheel‑drive system adds extra drag.
Highway driving at 70–75 mph is never in EV mode, with the 2‑liter engine running continuously. This results in mid‑20s in terms of fuel economy on long trips, which is a disappointment for a vehicle marketed as a family hybrid. The owner compares this to a front‑wheel‑drive Accord hybrid that achieves over 40 mpg on similar routes, underscoring the trade‑off between all‑wheel‑drive traction and fuel efficiency.
Despite the lower mileage, the vehicle still feels pretty good for daily commutes and short trips, especially when the Kumo tires provide reliable grip in snowy conditions.
Tech, Reliability, and Future Outlook
The tech suite falls short of competitors. The CR‑V lacks a panoramic roof, 360‑degree cameras, cooled seats, and heated rear seats—features that are standard on the new RAV4 and many rivals. The tech is just not competitive with what Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, Mazda, and Toyota are bringing, the owner observes.
Reliability has been solid. Over 13 months, the vehicle has required only scheduled maintenance—an oil change, tire rotation, and a B17 service costing about $333. No unexpected rattles, squeaks, or mechanical failures have occurred. Minor glitches, such as the seat memory not always engaging automatically and occasional Android Auto connectivity drops, were resolved with software updates.
"The only real con that I'm going to complain about is just the fuel economy." – Owner
Looking ahead, the owner plans to keep the CR‑V for at least another six months while evaluating the family’s needs. A potential switch to a Ford Maverick hybrid pickup is on the table, especially given its larger bed for landscaping work. However, the CR‑V’s spacious interior and proven reliability keep it in the running.
In the end, the 2024 Honda CR‑V Sport Touring Hybrid proves to be a solid family SUV with excellent handling, ample cargo space, and a comfortable interior. Its biggest shortcoming remains real‑world fuel economy, particularly in winter and on long highway runs. For buyers prioritizing efficiency over all‑wheel‑drive performance, the CR‑V may still be a compelling choice, but those who need maximum mileage will likely look elsewhere.