2026 Honda CR-V: Variants explained – Which one should you choose?

The CR-V has long been a key pillar in Honda Malaysia’s success, winning the hearts of local buyers with its versatility and practicality. To further strengthen its appeal, the automaker has updated the SUV for the model year 2026, introducing a new hybrid variant and new technology features.

The 2026 Honda CR-V is offered in three variants - E 2.0L e:HEV, 1.5L V AWD and RS 2.0L e:HEV, which means the petrol-powered S and E have been discontinued, and the hybrid powertrain is now available on the lower-spec E variant.  

This marks a significant milestone in the automaker’s hybrid expansion strategy, as two hybrid variants are being offered within a single model line-up for the first time. It underscores the brand’s commitment to making Honda’s hybrid tech more accessible to a broader customer base, while expanding its hybrid footprint in the Malaysian market.

Let’s compare the new CR-V variant lineup in detail, helping prospective buyers choose the right one.

2026 Honda CR-V variants: Price 

Variants	Price (on-the-road, excluding insurance)
Honda CR-V E 2.0L e:HEV	RM 178,200
Honda CR-V 1.5L V AWD	RM 181,900
Honda CR-V RS 2.0L e:HEV	RM 195,900

As mentioned, Honda has discontinued the previously available base-spec S variant (priced at RM 159,900). Thus, the new base trim is now the E, which has been switched to a hybrid powertrain and is priced RM 8,300  higher than the petrol turbo, which previously cost RM 169,900. As for the V and RS, their prices remain unchanged.

2026 Honda CR-V variants: Dimensions 

Specs	E	V	RS
Length	4,691 mm	4,691 mm	4,691 mm
Width	1,866 mm	1,866 mm	1,866 mm
Height	1,681 mm	1,691 mm	1,681 mm
Wheelbase	2,701 mm	2,700 mm	2,701 mm
Ground clearance	198 mm	208 mm	198 mm
Boot capacity	589 litres	589 litres	589 litres
Curb weight	1,724 kg	1,665 kg	1,732 kg

All the variants of the CR-V are identical in terms of length, width, height, and wheelbase, offering the same spaciousness, comfort, and road presence that define the SUV's overall design. The luggage capacity also remains the same across the lineup. 

However, we can observe slight differences in ground clearance and curb weight; the E and RS trims are heavier than the V, likely due to hybrid components.  

2026 Honda CR-V variants: Drivetrain specifications 

Specs	E	V	RS
Engine	2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 16 Valve, DOHC i‑VTEC	1.5-litre 4-cylinder, 16 Valve, DOHC VTEC Turbo	2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 16 Valve, DOHC i‑VTEC
Max power	Engine: 148 PS at 6,100 rpm Motor: 184 PS at 5,000 - 8,000 rpm	193 PS at 6,000 rpm	Engine: 148 PS at 6,100 rpm Motor: 184 PS at 5,000 - 8,000 rpm
Max torque	Engine: 190 Nm at 4,500 rpm Motor: 335 Nm at 0 - 2,000 rpm	243 Nm at 1,700 ‑ 5,000 rpm	Engine: 190 Nm at 4,500 rpm Motor: 335 Nm at 0 - 2,000 rpm
Transmission	e-CVT	CVT	e-CVT
Drive system	2WD	4WD	2WD
0-100 kmph acceleration	8.9 seconds	10 seconds	8.9 seconds
Top speed	185 kmph	200 kmph	185 kmph
Fuel efficiency	5 litres per km (20 kmpl)	7.5 litres per km (13.3 kmpl)	5 litres per km (20 kmpl)

The base-spec E and the flagship RS trims are powered by Honda’s advanced 2.0L e:HEV powertrain, offering smooth, powerful, and highly efficient hybrid performance. This system features three driving modes - EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive, enabling drivers to opt for the most efficient mode based on real‑time driving conditions. There is also an exclusive Individual Drive Mode for a truly customised experience.

The mid-spec V trim, on the other hand, is the sole petrol option powered by the familiar 1.5-litre 4-cylinder VTEC Turbo engine, delivering an impressive blend of power and efficiency. 

Comparing the two, the non-hybrid model delivers higher engine power and top speed with AWD capability, while the hybrid models offer better acceleration and fuel efficiency.

2026 Honda CR-V variants: Features

Here’s a detailed comparison of the new CR-V variant-wise features:

Specs	E	V (over E)	RS (over V)
Exterior	Automatic LED headlights LED daytime running lights  LED front sequential turn signals LED front fog lights LED tail lights Body-coloured door mirrors with LED Turn Light  Body coloured door handles Body coloured shark fin antenna Auto windshield wipers Hands-free powered tailgate 18-inch Black wheels with Resonator	18-inch Silver wheels	Active Cornering lights Black door mirrors with LED Turn Light Black door handles Black shark fin antenna 18-inch Black wheels with Resonator
Interior	9.0-inch infotainment unit Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 7-inch TFT instrument cluster 8-speaker sound system Dual-zone automatic climate control Wireless charging pad Remote engine start  Walk away auto lock Smart entry with push start button Digital key Auto-dimming rearview mirror 8-way power adjustable driver seat 4-way power adjustable front passenger seat Leather upholstered steering wheel Leather upholstery Memory seats Second-row sliding seat USB chargers	10.2-inch TFT instrument cluster Ambient lighting  Paddle Shift (only for V trim)	Head-up display Sport pedals RS logo embossed on the seats 12-speaker Bose sound system
Safety	Dual front SRS airbags Side airbags Side curtain airbags Knee airbags Auto door lock Vehicle stability assist  Agile handle assist  ABS with EBD and BA Hill start assist Hill descent control Emergency stop signal 4 front sensors 4 rear sensors Blind spot information  Cross traffic monitor  Forward collision warning Collision mitigation braking system  Lane keep assist Lane departure warning Road departure mitigation Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow Lead car departure notification system Honda Connect Driver attention monitor Active noise control Multi-angle reverse camera Tyre pressure monitoring system	360 Camera Reverse Auto Tilt Mirror Auto high beam	Adaptive driving beam Active sound control

All the variants of the SUV are well-equipped with a wide range of premium features like a 9-inch infotainment unit, wireless charging pad, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats. The mid-spec V trim upgrades the cabin with a larger instrument cluster and ambient lighting, whereas the top-spec RS take things to the next level with RS design touches, sport pedals, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.

Which 2026 Honda CR-V variant should you choose?

The choice depends on what matters most to you. If you want a value-for-money hybrid SUV, the E variant is a good choice. If you want a more premium interior along with smooth hybrid performance, go for the RS trim. However, if you prefer a traditional petrol engine with AWD capability, the V trim is the right choice.

Also read: Honda Malaysia’s 2026 game plan, 6 new models, 60k target, bigger e:HEV push