2024 Honda CR V Hybrid Sport L Review

The compact SUV market is buzzing, and for good reason. Drivers today are seeking a vehicle that blends practicality with efficiency, comfort with capability. Enter the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L, a new trim level designed to hit that sweet spot for many. Are you wondering if this hybrid SUV truly delivers on its promises of fuel economy, a refined driving experience, and a feature-rich interior? You're in the right place. This comprehensive review will dive deep into what makes the CR-V Hybrid Sport L a compelling choice, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your lifestyle.

Introducing the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L: The Sweet Spot?

For 2024, Honda has introduced the Sport L trim to its popular CR-V Hybrid lineup, slotting it neatly between the existing Sport and top-tier Sport Touring models. This strategic addition aims to offer a premium experience without the full price tag of the highest trim, making advanced features more accessible. But what exactly does the "L" in Sport L signify, and how does it elevate the CR-V Hybrid experience?

The Sport L is designed to cater to those who desire a step up in luxury and technology from the base Sport Hybrid, without venturing into the fully loaded Sport Touring territory. It brings a host of desirable upgrades that enhance both comfort and connectivity, making it a highly attractive option in the competitive hybrid SUV segment.

Performance and Efficiency: The Hybrid Advantage

At the heart of the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L lies a sophisticated powertrain that prioritizes both spirited performance and impressive fuel efficiency.

Powering Your Journey

The CR-V Hybrid Sport L is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. This combination delivers a robust 204 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. Is 204 horsepower enough for an SUV? Absolutely. This hybrid system provides a smooth, quiet, and satisfying acceleration that's more than adequate for daily commutes, merging onto highways, and passing slower traffic. The system is designed to feel seamless, often driving like an electric vehicle at lower speeds, contributing to a refined experience.

Remarkable Fuel Economy

One of the primary reasons to consider a hybrid SUV is fuel efficiency, and the 2024 CR-V Hybrid Sport L does not disappoint.

• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) Models: Boast an EPA-estimated 43 MPG in the city, 36 MPG on the highway, and a combined 40 MPG.
• All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Models: Offer a still impressive EPA-estimated 40 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and a combined 37 MPG.

While real-world mileage can vary based on driving conditions and habits, many owners report excellent figures, often achieving close to 40 MPG in mixed driving or even higher on certain highway commutes. The CR-V Hybrid also features a 4-Mode Drive System, including an ECON setting to further optimize fuel consumption, and an Eco Assist™ System that provides real-time feedback on your driving efficiency.

Interior Comfort and Design: A Refined Cabin Experience

Step inside the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L, and you'll immediately appreciate Honda's commitment to a spacious, logically laid out, and comfortable cabin.

Premium Touches and Ample Space

The Sport L trim elevates the interior with several key upgrades:

• Leather-Trimmed Seats: Enjoy the upscale feel of leather-trimmed seats, complete with eye-catching orange contrast stitching that adds a sporty flair.
• Heated Front Seats: Standard heated front seats ensure comfort during colder months.
• Power-Adjustable Seating: The driver benefits from a power-adjustable seat with memory functions, while the passenger also gets a power-adjustable seat – a notable upgrade over the Sport trim.
• Spaciousness: Both front and rear passengers will find ample head and legroom, making long journeys more enjoyable. Even those over six feet tall should find plenty of space to stretch out.
• Thoughtful Design: The interior boasts nice materials and a visually interesting honeycomb-texture trim covering the air vents. Controls are logically arranged, from the touchscreen to the physical climate-control knobs, ensuring ease of use.

Cargo Versatility

The CR-V Hybrid Sport L offers impressive cargo capacity, perfect for everything from grocery runs to weekend adventures. With the rear seats folded down, you'll have access to a generous 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space. While the hybrid battery slightly impacts ultimate cargo volume compared to the non-hybrid model, it's a minor trade-off for the significant fuel efficiency gains.

Technology and Connectivity: Stay Connected on the Go

In today's world, technology is paramount, and the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L delivers a suite of features designed to keep you connected and entertained.

Intuitive Infotainment

The Sport L trim significantly upgrades the infotainment experience:

• 9.0-inch Color Touchscreen: This larger screen is a welcome addition, providing a clear and responsive interface for all your media and navigation needs.
• Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™: Seamlessly integrate your smartphone without the need for cables, allowing easy access to your apps, navigation, and music.
• Wireless Phone Charger: Keep your compatible devices charged on the go with the convenient wireless charging pad.
• Premium Audio: An 8-speaker, 320-watt audio system comes standard, offering a rich sound experience for your favorite tunes.
• Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock®: Enjoy the convenience of keyless entry and automatic locking as you walk away from the vehicle.

Safety Features: Confidence on Every Drive

Honda has long been synonymous with safety, and the 2024 CR-V Hybrid Sport L continues this tradition with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies.

Honda Sensing® Suite

Every CR-V Hybrid Sport L comes standard with the Honda Sensing® suite, which includes:

• Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™): Helps to bring the vehicle to a stop when it detects a potential frontal collision.
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Alerts you if you begin to stray from your lane without signaling and can provide steering assistance to help you return to your lane.
• Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor: Provides visual and audible alerts to assist you when changing lanes or backing out of a parking space.
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow: Maintains a set following interval behind detected vehicles, even in stop-and-go traffic.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane.
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Offers multiple viewing angles to assist with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces.

Crash Test Ratings

The 2024 Honda CR-V (including hybrid models) has earned strong safety accolades. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has named the standard CR-V a Top Safety Pick+, its highest honor. However, it's worth noting that in the IIHS's updated moderate overlap frontal crash test, the 2024 CR-V received a "Poor" rating specifically concerning rear passenger safety due to chest injury risk and seatbelt interaction. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also provides 5-star safety ratings to help consumers compare vehicle safety.

Exterior Design: Sporty and Sophisticated

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L boasts a design that is both rugged and refined, with sporty accents that set it apart.

Key Exterior Highlights

• 18-inch Gloss-Black Alloy Wheels: These striking wheels contribute to the Sport L's athletic stance and visual appeal.
• Gloss Black Elements: Unique to the Sport L Hybrid, you'll find gloss black elements extending to the headlight assembly, enlarged front grille, side view mirror caps, and roof rails, creating a cohesive and sporty look.
• Power Tailgate: Adds convenience for loading and unloading cargo.
• Full LED Headlights: Provide excellent illumination and a modern aesthetic.
• Dual Chrome Exhaust Finishers: A subtle touch that enhances the vehicle's sporty character.

Pros and Cons of the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L

Every vehicle has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick rundown for the 2024 CR-V Hybrid Sport L:

Pros

• Excellent Fuel Economy: Especially for a spacious SUV, the hybrid system delivers impressive MPG.
• Refined Driving Experience: Smooth acceleration, quiet cabin, and comfortable ride.
• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo, with quality materials.
• Feature-Rich Sport L Trim: Offers premium features like leather seats, a larger touchscreen, and wireless smartphone integration at a competitive price point.
• Comprehensive Safety Suite: Standard Honda Sensing provides peace of mind.
• Strong Resale Value: Honda vehicles are known for holding their value well.

Cons

• Rear Passenger Safety Rating: The "Poor" IIHS rating in the updated moderate overlap frontal crash test for rear passengers is a notable concern.
• Towing Capacity: While it can tow 1,000 pounds, it's less than some non-hybrid competitors.
• No Panoramic Sunroof: Only a standard moonroof is available, which might be a drawback for some.
• No Vented or Heated Rear Seats: Features found in some rivals at similar price points.

Who is the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L For?

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L is an ideal choice for:

• Eco-Conscious Commuters: Those who prioritize excellent fuel efficiency for daily driving and longer trips.
• Small Families: Offering ample passenger and cargo space, along with a strong suite of safety features.
• Technology Enthusiasts: Drivers who appreciate a larger infotainment screen, wireless connectivity, and convenient tech features.
• Value Seekers: Individuals looking for a well-equipped, comfortable, and reliable SUV that balances premium features with a sensible price.
• Honda Loyalists: Fans of the Honda brand who trust its reputation for reliability and quality.

Conclusion: A Hybrid SUV That Hits the Mark

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L emerges as a highly compelling option in the bustling compact hybrid SUV segment. It masterfully combines Honda's renowned reliability and practicality with an efficient hybrid powertrain, a comfortable and feature-packed interior, and a sleek, sporty design. While the recent IIHS rear passenger safety rating is a point to consider, its overall package of performance, efficiency, technology, and comfort makes it a strong contender for many discerning buyers.

Are you ready to experience the blend of efficiency and refinement that the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L offers? We encourage you to visit your local Honda dealership for a test drive and see firsthand if this versatile SUV is the perfect match for your driving needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport and Sport L trims?

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L is a new trim level that adds several premium features over the Sport trim. Key upgrades include leather-trimmed seats, a power passenger seat, and a larger 9.0-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, compared to the Sport's 7.0-inch screen and wired connectivity.

Q2: What kind of fuel economy can I expect from the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L?

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L offers excellent fuel economy. The FWD model is EPA-rated at 43 MPG city / 36 MPG highway / 40 MPG combined, while the AWD model achieves 40 MPG city / 34 MPG highway / 37 MPG combined.

Q3: Does the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L comes standard with a 9.0-inch color touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.

Q4: What are the key safety features of the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L?

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport L includes the standard Honda Sensing® suite, which features Collision