Hybrid variants of the CR-V are already popular in the US, accounting for more than 50% of the model’s overall sales
Honda just announced that the new 2028 CR-V will be arriving next year with a new all-hybrid powertrain. It will also feature a bold new design and debut a next-generation platform. The launch timeline next year coincides with the 30th anniversary of the CR-V. It is America’s bestselling SUV, with annual sales expected to surpass 4 lakh units for the third consecutive year. Cumulative sales in the US are more than 7.5 million units.
7th-gen Honda CR-V – New hybrid setup
2028 CR-V in the US will be using the 5th-gen version of Honda’s two-motor hybrid system. This new hybrid system has several advancements including a design that makes the engine more efficient. The driving efficiency of the hybrid unit has also been improved. New-gen CR-V hybrid could see its fuel efficiency improve by more than 10%. The 2028 CR-V will also feature a newly developed electric AWD system, which will have more precise and responsive motor control.
Existing CR-V in the US is available with a pure petrol (non-hybrid) and a hybrid powertrain. The petrol version utilizes a 1.5-litre turbocharged DOHC inline-4 engine that generates 190 hp and 243 Nm of torque. It is paired with a CVT transmission. This powertrain will not be available with the new-gen CR-V.
Honda CR-V’s existing two-motor hybrid setup comprises a 2.0-litre engine and an electric propulsion motor. Combined output is 204 hp. This setup is paired with an e-CVT transmission. Honda has not revealed the details of its new 5th-gen two-motor hybrid system that will debut with the 2028 CR-V.
Making CR-V a hybrid-only model makes sense since there’s significant demand for hybrid variants in the US. Since its introduction in 2020, annual sales of Honda CR-V hybrid have grown nearly 10x. Honda has also set all-time records for hybrid sales in 2024 and 2025 in the US market. This is expected to continue in 2026, led by CR-V hybrid sales. Among Honda’s total car sales in the US, hybrids contribute around 30%.
Focus on hybrids
Globally, Honda is making a strategic shift by focusing more on hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). While pure electric vehicles (EVs) are also under development, the overall mix will be in favour of HEVs. The new 2028 CR-V hybrid is the first of several hybrid models that will be launched in North America by 2030. Honda has identified HEV models as a key growth driver for the coming years.
On the platform side, the new-gen CR-V will debut on a new platform. Broader goals include a lightweight profile, a modular architecture and high body rigidity. Users can expect a sporty and exhilarating driving experience with the new CR-V and other Honda models based on the new platform. Better cost control is another target, as the new modular platform will allow easier sharing of parts across models. Overall safety will also improve through better vehicle control and smoother vehicle behaviour.
