The Honda CR-V is presently our favorite compact SUV, and the 2024 model has received a 10Best honor. Its powertrains include a basic 190-hp 1.5-liter turbo four and an optional 204-hp hybrid. In 2025, the CR-V will add a third powertrain: a hydrogen fuel-cell system with plug-in capabilities.The new CR-V, known as the e:FCEV, houses Honda's second-generation fuel-cell module beneath the hood, where a conventional engine would normally be. A pair of tanks located under the back seat and rear cargo floor deliver compressed hydrogen gas to the fuel-cell unit, which turns it into electricity to power the electric engine. There's also a 17.7-kWh battery in the floor to give extra power.Honda claims the CR-V e:FCEV has a maximum output of 174 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Although no performance estimates are provided, the EPA believes that the hydrogen-powered SUV has a driving range of 270 miles. The government's MPGe ratings are 61 city, 52 highway, and 57 combination. The EPA thinks that it can drive 29 miles on power alone.
Honda claims that to fit the fuel-cell technology, the CR-V's rear lateral stiffness and rear torsional rigidity were raised by 10% and 9%, respectively. Its front and rear suspensions are also updated with new anti-roll bars, dampers, and springs. Every CR-V e:FCEV rides on 18-inch wheels with 235/60R-18 tires. The rest of the hydrogen model's measurements are essentially identical to the hybrid and nonhybrid variants, with the exception that it is 2.8 inches longer overall.The 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV has a different appearance than its brothers. All of the body components ahead of the A-pillar are altered, with new headlights positioned above a huge lower grille opening with separate air intakes on either side. Honda says it also refined numerous aerodynamic components and modified the CR-V's rear liftgate to complement the white parts in the vertical taillights.
Inside, the CR-V e:FCEV appears to be very similar to its siblings. There's a new push-button shifter on the center console, and the cargo room is much smaller due to hydrogen tanks. Honda has not revealed cargo volume or rear-seat passenger room, so we don't know how much of it is affected.