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New Honda CR-V review-Better than VW & Skoda?

evlover

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The Honda CR-V Hybrid is a well-established SUV, but it faces stiff competition from models like the Skoda Karoq and Volkswagen Tiguan, especially in the UK market. Let's break down how it stacks up in the key areas:
1. Price

The pricing of the Honda CR-V Hybrid varies depending on the trim and the choice between the self-charging hybrid and the plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Here's a rough comparison:

Honda CR-V Hybrid (UK):

Self-charging hybrid: Starting from around £35,000
Plug-in hybrid: Starting from around £40,000
Skoda Karoq: Starts at around £27,000 but goes higher for well-equipped trims.
Volkswagen Tiguan: Hybrid models start from around £38,000 for plug-in variants.

While the CR-V Hybrid is priced higher than the Skoda Karoq, it competes more closely with the Tiguan on pricing. However, Skoda’s models typically offer more value for money in terms of features.

honda cr-v hybrid-plug in hybrid.jpg

2. Range

Self-charging Hybrid:
The CR-V hybrid doesn’t have a pure-electric range as it’s not a plug-in hybrid, but it offers a fuel-efficient hybrid driving experience with real-world mpg figures around 40-45 mpg.
Plug-in Hybrid: The PHEV version can achieve around 32 miles of electric-only range, which is competitive but falls short compared to other PHEVs like the Tiguan eHybrid, which offers around 31 miles of EV range.

3. Battery & Powertrain

Honda CR-V Hybrid: Both versions of the hybrid use a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine paired with one or two electric motors, depending on whether it’s self-charging or PHEV. Both powertrains produce a combined 148 hp. The plug-in version offers all-wheel drive as standard.
VW Tiguan PHEV: The Tiguan plug-in hybrid comes with a 1.4-liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor, producing a more powerful 242 hp.
Skoda Karoq: Skoda doesn’t offer a hybrid Karoq, but petrol and diesel options are available, with the highest output petrol version producing around 148 hp.

The CR-V Hybrid’s power output is modest compared to rivals, with the VW Tiguan PHEV standing out for its more powerful system.
4. Interior Quality & Technology

The CR-V has a well-organized cabin with a mix of physical buttons for key functions like climate control, which many drivers appreciate. However, the use of cheaper plastics on the central console and door bins detracts from the overall premium feel.
The infotainment system is improved but still lags behind class leaders like the Volkswagen Tiguan, which offers a more intuitive interface with better graphics.
Skoda Karoq interiors are praised for their practicality and simple, high-quality design, often matching or surpassing the CR-V in this aspect.

5. What’s Better?

Honda CR-V Hybrid excels in reliability, fuel efficiency, and offering both hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. The standard all-wheel drive on the PHEV also adds capability for those needing extra traction.
However, the VW Tiguan offers more powerful plug-in hybrid options and a more polished interior experience.
The Skoda Karoq is often seen as a value leader, offering a lot of practicality and quality at a lower price point, though it lacks a hybrid option.

Overall, the Honda CR-V Hybrid offers a competitive package but may not stand out as much in terms of price-to-feature ratio compared to the Tiguan and Karoq. However, for those prioritizing hybrid options and reliability, it’s a strong contender.
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