LAST YEAR, the Honda CR-V turned 30.
And this October, in its anniversary month, Honda’s flagship SUV in South Africa begins its next chapter.
The new CR-V RS e:HEV AWD is the first CR-V in the country with hybrid power.
It comes with All-Wheel Drive as standard, and it costs R91 400 less than the model it replaces.
Few nameplates carry as much weight for Honda. Since its launch in Japan in 1995, the CR-V has grown into a global success, sold in around 150 countries.
Cumulative sales passed 5 million in 2011, 10 million in 2018 and 15 million in August 2025, and the CR-V remains Honda’s best-selling car worldwide over the last decade.
The new model carries that legacy forward.
Honda’s 2.0-litre e:HEV two-motor hybrid gives the CR-V instant electric response, with its motors delivering 135 kW and 335 Nm.
The cabin returns to five seats, and RS styling sets it apart inside and out.
Priced at R949 900, the CR-V went on sale at selected Honda dealers nationwide from 14 October 2026.
The CR-V’s new e:HEV system pairs a 2.0-litre direct-injection Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with two electric motors and a lithium-ion battery. The engine produces 106 kW and 189 Nm, while the electric motors deliver 135 kW and 335 Nm.
That is a significant step up in performance and refinement over the outgoing 1.5-litre turbo model.
Unlike many hybrids, e:HEV does not blend engine and motor power through a complex planetary gearset. Instead, it is built around five main components: Traction motor, Generator motor, 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine, Lock-up clutch, and Power Control Unit and battery.
Because the wheels are driven by either the electric motor or a direct engine connection, the e:CVT has no conventional multi-speed gearbox, belts or pulleys. Honda says this simplicity reduces friction losses and gives smooth, seamless acceleration.
The latest CR-V carries forward the sporty, modern and spacious design direction, with fine craftmanship, premium materials and upscale touches.
RS-specification styling brings gloss-black bumper accents and dual exhaust outlets.
Inside, the cabin features RS-style eco-friendly leather upholstery, white ambient lighting and a clean, minimalist layout. Improved NVH suppression makes the most of the quiet electric drive.
Pricing:
2.0L RS e:HEV AWD- R949 900 incl. VAT
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