Honda’s most popular SUV, the compact CR-V, is all-new for 2023, packing in some exciting enhancements for its 6th-generation.

The longer and wider CR-V is served up in four trims, including the hybrid-based Sport and Sport Touring. They use a refined 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and a pair of electric motors. Combined, that’s 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque.

The EX and EX-L are internal combustion only: the Civic’s 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four but rated to 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It’s mated to a CVT transmission, also updated with Step-Shift programming which we recently sampled in the new HR-V. It simulates gear changes at full throttle and helps lighten up some CVT woes.

All-wheel drive is standard on the Sport Touring and available on every other grade, which come standard front-wheel drive.

It’s pretty obvious when you look at the exterior of this new CR-V that it’s larger than the previous generation, but it’s not so obvious sitting in the driver’s seat. I feel like I’m just driving a compact crossover. Certainly doesn’t feel bigger. It’s still very comfortable, very smooth on the road.

Wrapped up in a much bolder, chiseled new body, the CR-V is now 2.7-inches longer and 4/10ths of an inch wider. This leads to more room inside; better legroom and eight angles of recline in back. This new gen also boasts the most cargo space of any CR-V: 36.3 cubic-feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 76.5 cubic-feet thanks to the 60/40 folding second-row.

Standard tech and convenience features in and around the Civic-inspired I.P. include Honda Sensing, a 7-inch driver interface screen and a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired smartphone integration. The EX-L and Sport Touring add a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless phone integration and charging.

Destined for three North American assembly plants, the 2023 Honda CR-V should reach consumers with ease starting in late summer; hybrid models will follow nearer year’s end.

We’ll have more on the 2023 Honda CR-V and more Quick Spins soon!