2020 Honda CR-V

The 2020 Honda CR-V gains a host of revisions to keep it at the top of the pile of compact crossover SUVs. The two most significant: The 1.5-liter turbo engine is standard across all trim levels—no more underpowered 2.4-liter non-turbo engine—as are the Honda Sensing® driver aids. That means that even the base LX model gets the efficient and powerful engine and gains adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking, and lane-keeping assist all under the Honda Sensing banner.

That's certain to appeal to the family buyers that the CR-V attracts. So, too, is the spacious interior: The CR-V is among the roomiest cars among rivals for five passengers and luggage. Even with the base LX getting the better engine and driver assistance equipment, we think the EX, which sits below the EX-L and Touring, is a sweet spot since it includes some real convenience features like heated front seats, a power driver's seat, push-button start and keyless entry, and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration via a 7-inch touchscreen. Also new for 2020 is a separate Honda CR-V Hybrid model that combines a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a battery and electric motor for a combined 212-hp output. It's a slick integration, but for all its smoothness the hybrid isn't as much of a fuel-sipper in real-world use as some rivals (per testing from our partners at Edmunds). Stick with a regular CR-V, and you really can't go wrong, especially with the 2020 improvements.