The Honda CR-V has long been a dominant force in the compact SUV segment, and the 2025 model year continues its reign with impressive features, including a new fuel-cell variant, though availability may be limited. Praised for its comfortable front seats, smart interior design, and fuel-efficient, quiet hybrid models, the CR-V remains a top pick. Our recommendation leans towards the non-hybrid CR-V EX for its balanced ride and value, while the CR-V Sport hybrid truly shines in efficiency.
However, the CR-V isn’t without its drawbacks. A somewhat conservative design, a less powerful turbo engine compared to hybrids, a modest 1,000-pound towing capacity, and just an average warranty are points to consider. If you’re exploring cars comparable to the Honda CR-V, several compelling alternatives deserve your attention.
Toyota RAV4: The Established and Efficient Contender
The Toyota RAV4 stands as a seasoned veteran in the compact SUV arena, consistently ranking among America’s best-selling vehicles. Like the CR-V, the RAV4 excels in offering a blend of practicality, fuel economy, and appealing styling. Its hybrid models boast exceptional MPG ratings, and the plug-in hybrid version delivers both impressive electric range and surprisingly quick acceleration. The RAV4 also offers a robust suite of standard safety features, a wide array of model choices, and a spacious interior.
However, the RAV4 isn’t perfect. Headroom can be a bit limited, the base engine can sound somewhat coarse, and the popular plug-in hybrid model often comes with a premium price tag, sometimes overlapping with the larger Toyota Highlander. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RAV4 remains a strong contender for those seeking cars comparable to the Honda CR-V, particularly if fuel efficiency and a proven track record are priorities.
Mazda CX-50: The Sportier, All-Wheel-Drive Option
The Mazda CX-50 presents a different flavor in the Cars Comparable To Honda Crv conversation. For 2025, the introduction of a hybrid powertrain, borrowed from Toyota, significantly enhances its appeal. The CX-50 aims for a sportier image, a nod to Mazda’s performance heritage. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and offers a decent tow rating, along with some off-road capability.
Despite the sporty aspirations, the CX-50’s hybrid powertrain can be noisy, and the base engine isn’t particularly refined either. The styling, while attractive, isn’t as sleek as previous Mazda designs, and the infotainment system, while improved, can still be frustrating for some users. While the CX-50 offers good fuel economy in hybrid form and is built in the U.S., its identity as a sporty crossover might be slightly diluted, making it a somewhat unique, albeit pricier, alternative to the CR-V.
Hyundai Tucson: Style and Technology Forward
The Hyundai Tucson, with its refreshed design for this year, emerges as a stylish and feature-rich option among cars comparable to Honda CR-V. The Tucson boasts a broad lineup, including both efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, although the base engine is less refined. A key strength of the Tucson is its comprehensive range of powertrain choices and a class-leading warranty, providing excellent peace of mind.
The Tucson excels in technology, offering standard wireless smartphone integration for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Its user interface is generally considered more intuitive and complete than many competitors. Coupled with a revamped interior that is cleaner and more upscale, the Tucson presents a compelling and stylish alternative for those looking beyond the CR-V, especially if warranty and technology are high on the priority list.
Kia Sportage: Value and Striking Design
The Kia Sportage shares many similarities with the Hyundai Tucson, offering comparable powertrain options and a focus on value. However, the Sportage distinguishes itself with bolder exterior styling and a feature set that may resonate with different buyers. Its hybrid and plug-in hybrid models rival the Tucson and RAV4 in fuel economy leadership within this class. The Sportage’s interior is spacious and features a modern design with extensive digital displays.
The mid-range Sportage trims offer particularly strong value, and like the Tucson, it benefits from Kia’s excellent warranty. However, the higher trim levels can become quite expensive, and the base engine is considered underpowered and less fuel-efficient. If you prioritize a striking design, strong warranty, and value in the mid-range trims, the Kia Sportage is a worthy consideration when exploring cars comparable to the Honda CR-V.
Subaru Forester: The Spacious and Practical Choice
The Subaru Forester rounds out our list of cars comparable to honda crv, emphasizing practicality and spaciousness. While currently lacking a hybrid option, the Forester compensates with a remarkably roomy interior, particularly in terms of headroom, and competitive pricing. Recently updated, the latest Forester boasts a more refined powertrain and improved sound insulation compared to previous generations.
Standard Subaru all-wheel drive, exceptional safety ratings, excellent outward visibility, and a stronger engine with enhanced low-end torque are key selling points for the Forester. However, the touchscreen interface can feel cluttered, and the X-Mode button could be more readily accessible. The absence of a hybrid version in the current lineup is also a notable factor. For buyers prioritizing interior space, standard all-wheel drive, and strong safety credentials, the Subaru Forester remains a highly practical alternative to the Honda CR-V.
Conclusion
The Honda CR-V remains a top contender in the competitive compact SUV segment for good reason. However, the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-50, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Subaru Forester each present compelling alternatives with their own unique strengths and characteristics. When searching for cars comparable to the Honda CR-V, carefully consider your priorities – whether it’s fuel efficiency, sporty handling, technology features, warranty, interior space, or value – to determine which model best aligns with your needs. Each of these vehicles offers a viable and competitive option in the diverse landscape of compact SUVs.
