The Honda CR-V has been a long-standing champion in the compact SUV segment, known for its spacious and versatile cargo area. However, with the introduction of larger competitors like the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, the CR-V no longer holds the title of having the largest cargo space. In this review, we’ll dive into the details of the 2023 Honda CR-V, focusing on its cargo space and versatility.
The Numbers
According to the specs, the CR-V hybrid trims and LX trim offer 36.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which is slightly less than its competitors. However, the gas-only CR-V EX and EX-L trims close the gap by providing 39.3 cubic feet, thanks to a dual-level cargo floor. This means that the CR-V can still accommodate a significant amount of luggage, but it falls slightly behind the Tucson, Sportage, and RAV4.
Cargo Floor and Spare Tire
One key point of difference between the CR-V and its competitors is the cargo floor. The CR-V LX and all hybrid trims feature a fixed cargo floor, unlike the Sportage, Tucson, RAV4, and CR-V EX trims, where you can lower the floor for additional space. Additionally, the CR-V hybrids do not have a spare tire, unlike the Sportage Hybrid and RAV4 Hybrid, which still provide a spare tire despite having batteries.
Cargo Area Design
While the CR-V offers a voluminous cargo area, it lacks clever storage solutions. The side storage areas consist of hard, slippery plastic, which may not be very useful. Unlike its predecessors, the cargo floor of the CR-V does not double as a picnic table with a drainable compartment below. Although a cargo cover is available for the CR-V, it was not present in the test car.
Luggage Test
In a luggage test, the CR-V proves its ability to accommodate various luggage sizes. It easily fits two midsize roller suitcases, two roll-aboard suitcases, and a smaller roll-aboard suitcase, with plenty of space to spare. The cargo area of the CR-V is comparable to the Tucson and Sportage, although some slight differences are noted.
Filling the Space
For additional testing, various items like coolers and backpacks were added to fill the remaining space in the CR-V. The results show that there is still ample room after fitting a 38-quart cooler, a medium-size soft cooler, a small cooler, and a hiking child carrier backpack.
Conclusion
While the Honda CR-V may no longer have the largest cargo area in its segment, it still offers sufficient space for most needs. The dual-level cargo floor in the gas-only EX and EX-L trims provides added versatility. The lack of a spare tire and some minor differences in overall space compared to its competitors are worth considering. Overall, the CR-V remains a capable and practical choice for those in search of a compact SUV with ample cargo space.
FAQs
Q: Does the Honda CR-V offer a cargo cover?
A: Yes, the CR-V is available with a cargo cover, although it was not present in the tested car.
Q: Can the cargo floor of the CR-V be lowered?
A: The CR-V LX and hybrid trims have a fixed cargo floor and do not offer the option to lower it for extra space.
Q: How does the cargo space of the CR-V compare to the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage?
A: The Tucson and Sportage offer slightly more cargo space than the CR-V, but the differences are relatively minor.