There are many cars to choose from in many price ranges.
The test vehicle this week was a 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid All-Wheel Drive. I have to put it in the “smart car” category. This CR-V has all the standard safety equipment and almost every option that automakers can install on a single vehicle. With many features, the suggested retail price is $38,600
Honda is a world-class company that makes lawn mowers, motorcycles and anything else that rolls on wheels. This CR-V is a special hybrid model with a 2.0 L engine with a variable transmission. While not turbo-charged, this Honda doesn’t need much speed or power with its hybrid features. There’s plenty of power and speed with a 37 mpg fuel average. It’s nice to be able to pass those service stations as fuel prices go up as oil prices go up.
This is such a simple, all around vehicle; Driving, driving, parking, peppy performance and many safety features. The design is standard, not flashy, but functional. The truck space is spacious and the rear seats are comfortable. The front seats have heated seats and steering wheel, so nice these past cold weeks.
All-wheel drive is perfect for Colorado weather and the CR-V offers three drive options, Sport, Normal and Eco. The car is quick and responds favorably to quick push button switches in Sport mode.
The car rides on MacPherson suspension at the front and multi-link support at the rear to handle the hybrid weight and stability. Handling is precise, and the car has 4-wheel disc brakes.
Safety features indicate front, center, side and knee airbags. The center console features a 9″ color screen and easy-to-use dials for driving application preferences. A premium 12-speaker Bose sound system channels all available radio channels.
Honda is global with final assembly in Alliston, Ontario, Canada with 57 percent from the US and Canada. The car has a USA engine with a Japanese multi-speed transmission. The combination works perfectly together.
The leather-trimmed seats are comfortable, the LED lights work well, and the automatic dim feature for dimming lights is perfection.
All the features and performance of a premium SUV in a well-equipped and efficient package. The hybrid system works well, and fuel economy is impressive and efficient.
