Honda CR-V: Top Alternatives for 2025
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.
Updates for the 2025 Honda CR-V
The 2025 Honda CR-V carries forward much of the design and features from the 2023 model but introduces a key addition: the new Sport-L Hybrid trim. This trim combines luxury and efficiency, slotting between the EX-L and Sport Touring trims in the lineup.
The CR-V continues to offer two powertrain options: a traditional gasoline engine and a hybrid system. The hybrid trims, including the new Sport-L, deliver superior fuel efficiency and responsive performance, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious drivers.
The 2025 lineup now includes six trims: LX, EX, Sport, EX-L, Sport-L, and Sport Touring, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an option across all models. This diversified range ensures there’s a CR-V to suit a wide variety of preferences and needs.
Honda CR-V Top Competitors Comparison Summary
The compact SUV market in 2025 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 2025 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
You may qualify for additional deals and incentives, check out this month’s Subaru deals
2. Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage enters 2025 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
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
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 2025, 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
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 2025 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
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.
