Honda has discontinued the LX’s former lethargic non-turbocharged engine and equipped it with the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder that in the past was reserved for the Honda CR-V’s more expensive trim levels. The CR-V’s suite of safety features is also standard for 2020, meaning even the most affordable CR-V provides adaptive cruise control and the latest crash prevention technology. Sleeker styling and improved interior storage are also part of Honda’s 2020 updates.

Sadly, the 2020 CR-V remains stuck with the Honda’s older infotainment system, which isn’t as easy to use as the newer system in its latest models. But that’s pretty much the only negative. While you might find a rival small SUV does one thing better than the Honda CR-V — no other small SUV offers a better overall combination of utility, fuel efficiency, comfort and performance.

Which CR-V do we recommend?

It’s great to see the base model get improvements this year. But the EX is still the right choice at the right price. It has the same turbocharged engine plus a lot of extra comfort features. If you can go without the EX-L and its leather seats and upgraded stereo, put the savings toward an EX with all-wheel drive. Or pad that Italian vacation fund.

Honda CR-V models

The 2020 Honda CR-V is offered in four trim levels: the LX, EX, EX-L and Touring. All come with the turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (190 horsepower, 179 lb-ft of torque) and a continuously variable automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is optional. There is also a new CR-V Hybrid for 2020, which is covered separately on Edmunds.

The LX is the entry-level trim and comes standard with features such as a 5-inch central display, automatic climate control, a four-speaker sound system, and the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver safety aids.

Stepping up to the well-equipped EX gets you a lot of extras. These include a sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, push-button start with keyless entry, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a 7-inch touchscreen, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

The EX-L brings luxury into the equation. It has leather upholstery, an eight-speaker audio system and a power liftgate. Touring is the top level and comes with features such as LED headlights, integrated navigation, a premium nine-speaker audio system, and a heated steering wheel.

Competitive Vehicles:

2021 Ford Escape

2021 Jeep Cherokee