Honda CR-V: Top Alternatives for 2024
January 22, 2024

Aaron Turpen is an automotive writer and reviewer living in Wyoming, USA. A life-long off-road and mechanical enthusiast, Aaron has had a varied career in vehicles. Aaron grew up with home mechanics and maintenance on tractors, trucks, and cars as well as small engines and devices. At any one time, he’s worked as an automotive disassembler (aka “junk yard parts puller”), shade tree mechanic, over-the-road truck driver, and more. Aaron’s interests include family-oriented vehicles, off-roading, and anything fun involving tires and steering. With most of his life having been in rural America, Aaron understands pickup trucks and SUVs, winter weather hazards, and what life is like where phrases like “Just down the road” mean “within 100 miles.” Aaron’s automotive writing career has included outlets such as Carfax, CarTalk, NewAtlas.com, and many others. He’s appeared on NPR’s All Things Considered, on various YouTube channels, and on several podcasts. Aaron also operates a couple automotive sites: EVmeme.com and Drivemodeshow.com
The Honda CR-V has long enjoyed the top sales position in compact crossovers. The CR-V was one of the founders of its segment and has usually been the benchmark for the market since.
Compact crossovers are noted for their small size, versatility, and accommodating interiors. And while the CR-V has remained a best seller for years, it’s also faced stiff competition from other compacts that are worth considering.
The good news for us is that strong competition results in strong competitors and that benefits everyone.
Table of Contents
Updates for the 2024 Honda CR-V
The 2024 Honda CR-V largely remains the same as its 2023 model, with the significant addition of a new Sport-L hybrid trim to its lineup.
This new trim offers a blend of luxury and efficiency, positioned between the EX-L and Sport Touring trims. The CR-V continues to offer both gasoline and hybrid powertrains, with the hybrid models, including the new Sport-L, providing enhanced fuel economy and performance.
The lineup now consists of six trims: LX, EX, Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, and Sport Touring, with AWD available across the range.
Honda CR-V Top Competitors Comparison Summary
The compact SUV market in 2024 is more competitive than ever, with each model bringing its strengths:
- Honda CR-V remains a top pick for its reliability, spacious interior, and hybrid option.
- Subaru Forester appeals to those looking for standard all-wheel drive and a focus on safety.
- Kia Sportage offers a unique design and a tech-forward cabin, along with a hybrid model.
- Toyota RAV4 continues to excel in reliability and fuel efficiency, especially with its hybrid variant.
- Ford Escape caters to tech-savvy buyers with its connectivity features and offers both hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.
- Nissan Rogue stands out for its value proposition, combining comfort, technology, and efficiency.
1. Subaru Forester
The 2024 Subaru Forester sticks to its roots with standard all-wheel drive and a focus on safety and outdoor capability.
It offers a spacious interior and a comfortable ride, making it a solid choice for adventure-seekers and families alike.
The Forester's emphasis on safety technology continues to be a strong selling point.
Current Subaru Forester Deals & Incentives
Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Subaru | Forester | 1.90% | $399/month for 36 months, $3,424 due at signing | 2/28/25 | |
2025 | Subaru | Forester | 4.90% | $319/month for 36 months, $3,219 due at signing | 2/28/25 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Subaru deals
2. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage enters 2024 with a bold design and a range of powertrains, including a hybrid option that competes directly with the CR-V's efficiency.
The Sportage stands out with its modern tech features and a spacious, well-appointed interior, offering a compelling alternative for those seeking style and substance.
Current Kia Sportage Deals & Incentives
Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Kia | Sportage | ||||
2025 | Kia | Sportage | 1.90% | $259/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 3/3/25 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Kia deals
3. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4, a perennial favorite, brings a mix of reliability, efficiency, and versatility to the table.
Its hybrid model remains a strong contender in the segment, offering excellent fuel economy.
The RAV4's robust suite of safety features and off-road-capable trims cater to a broad audience.
Current Toyota RAV4 Deals & Incentives
Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Toyota | RAV4 | ||||
2025 | Toyota | RAV4 | 4.99% | $339/month for 36 months, $3,999 due at signing | 3/3/25 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Toyota deals
4. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape offers a refreshed design and updated technology for 2024, with a focus on connectivity and driver assistance features.
It provides multiple powertrain options, including a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid, making it a versatile choice for those prioritizing efficiency and performance.
Current Ford Escape Deals & Incentives
Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Ford | Escape | $2,500 | 4.90% | $289/month for 36 months, $3,339 due at signing | 3/31/25 |
2025 | Ford | Escape | $1,000 | 5.90% | $409/month for 36 months, $3,379 due at signing | 3/31/25 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Ford deals
5. Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue continues to impress with its combination of comfort, technology, and value.
The 2024 model enhances its appeal with a refined interior and the inclusion of advanced safety and convenience features as standard.
The Rogue's efficient powertrain options underscore its commitment to balancing performance with fuel economy.
Current Nissan Rogue Deals & Incentives
Year | Make | Model | Cash Incentives (up to) | Best Avail. APR | Lease Offers | Expiration |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
2024 | Nissan | Rogue | ||||
2025 | Nissan | Rogue | $1,500 | 2.90% | 3/3/25 |
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month's Nissan deals
Frequently Asked Questions
Which of the SUVs on this list has the most cargo space?
The Honda CR-V has the largest cargo space on our list here, but the Subaru Forester and Nissan Rogue are very close seconds.
Is the CR-V bigger than the new Nissan Rogue?
The CR-V is about an inch longer than the new Rogue, but the Nissan is an inch wider. Both are the same height.
Are there other competitors to the CR-V?
The small crossover segment is very hot and one of the fastest-growing in automotive. Because of that, there is no shortage of competition. The Hyundai Tucson, Chevrolet Equinox, Jeep Cherokee, and Mitsubishi Outlander Sport are a few that didn’t make our list.
Which models in the CR-V’s segment offer a hybrid or electric model?
The Honda CR-V has a hybrid variant. Competing with that are the RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid models, and the Ford Escape Hybrid.
Posted in Car Buying Tips, Car Research & Comparisons |