2026 Honda CR-V launched in Malaysia from RM178,200, now with two e:HEV hybrid variants, and new goodies

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia has officially introduced the updated CR-V line-up, with prices starting from RM178,200 and going up to RM195,900 (on-the-road without insurance).

The big shift this time isn’t a redesign, it’s the expansion of the hybrid range. For the first time locally, the CR-V now offers two e:HEV variants within the same model line-up.

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

Pricing breaks down as follows (OTR without insurance):

• 2.0L e:HEV E – RM178,200

• 1.5L V turbo – RM181,900

• 2.0L e:HEV RS – RM195,900

That means buyers who want hybrid no longer have just one flagship option, there’s now a more accessible electrified entry point.

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia, Mr. Narushi Yazaki said, “The CR-V has long been our flagship model and a key pillar in Honda Malaysia’s success. This year, we are enhancing its appeal further with a new hybrid variant and this underscores our continued commitment to making Honda’s hybrid more accessible to a broader customer base, while accelerating the growth of our hybrid footprint in the Malaysian market.”

2.0L e:HEV: 184 PS and 335 Nm

Both the e:HEV E and e:HEV RS use Honda’s 2.0-litre e:HEV system, delivering 184 PS and 335 Nm. The system switches between EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive depending on conditions, and Honda says the e:HEV variants also get an Individual Drive Mode for a more customisable driving feel.

The V variant continues with a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, aimed at buyers who prefer a conventional petrol setup.

What’s actually new for Malaysia this time

This is the bit worth talking about, because the previous Malaysian CR-V launch leaned heavily on “carryover fundamentals, new-generation body”, while this update is more about equipment and tech.

Digital Key is new, allowing owners to lock, unlock and start the vehicle using a mobile device, and Honda CONNECT now adds remote functions such as Remote Window Close and Remote Power Tailgate integration.

Honda has also swapped out the old approach to blind spot coverage. When the sixth-gen CR-V first arrived here, Honda kept LaneWatch in place of blind spot monitoring.

Now, LaneWatch is replaced by Blind Spot Information (BSI), and there’s also a rear Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM) added for reversing out of tight parking spaces.

Then there’s the infotainment change. Previously, the 9-inch Advanced Display Audio with wireless Apple CarPlay was an upgrade you got on higher grades like the 1.5 E.

For 2026, all variants now get the 9-inch Advanced Display Audio, plus Google Audio Services integration (Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play apps), alongside wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Subtle refinements, new colour option

Visually, this still isn’t a drastic change. Honda describes refinements rather than a redesign. A new exterior colour, Blazing Red Pearl, joins the palette, and all variants now come standard with Honda Authorised Solar and Security tint film by ECOTINT.

Wheel design differs depending on variant, with hybrid variants on 18-inch Berlina Black alloys, while the turbo variant wears 18-inch Sparkle Silver alloys.

Inside, the e:HEV RS receives a darker hairline film finish on the dashboard and RS-embossed seats, giving the flagship variant a slightly more distinct look compared to the rest of the range.

Still a key player in the C-SUV segment

The CR-V remains one of Honda Malaysia’s core models and sits firmly in the C-segment SUV space, competing against models like the Mazda CX-5, Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and Subaru Forester, depending on variant and budget.

With two hybrid variants now available, Honda is clearly leaning harder into electrification without dropping its turbo petrol option. Instead of repositioning the CR-V entirely, this update reads like a practical expansion of the range, aimed at giving buyers more choice within the same familiar package.

The 2026 Honda CR-V is now available for viewing and test drives at authorised Honda dealerships nationwide. 

Also Read: Honda Malaysia’s 2025 highlights: Total sales, best-selling models, “Because of You” campaign winners and more