2023 Honda CR-V is now 28% more expensive in the US! To start above RM 160k mark in Malaysia?

Deliveries of the all-new sixth generation 2023 Honda CR-V has started in the US, with American Honda Motor reporting more than 20,000 units sold in October alone. The figure is still about 24 percent less than the same month last year, but that’s because deliveries of hybrid variants – which is expected to make up 50 percent of CR-V sales in the US - will only start this month.

Still, it is left to be seen if the sales of this latest generation CR-V can match the previous generation model (putting aside semiconductor parts shortage), as the barrier of entry into the CR-V range is now a lot higher.

Prices now start from USD 31,110 (~RM 148k), a massive 28 percent leap over the previous model’s USD 24,350! (~RM 116k).

The highest specs AWD (Sports Touring Hybrid) variant now tops out at USD 38,600 (~RM 183k), which is 13 percent higher than before.

The reason? Increase in material cost, a problem that is affecting every manufacturer, is one reason, but the bigger reason is because the previous model’s cheaper 2.4-litre naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine has been discontinued.

The latest CR-V is now only available with either the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo or the 2.0-litre e:HEV two-motor full-hybrid.

The list of features is also longer now, but whether it justifies the big leap in prices or not is for you to decide.

The full suite of Sensing driving assistance functions is now available as standard across the range, including Traffic Jam Assist. The latter is not available in our part of the world. Traffic Jam Assist builds upon the Adaptive Cruise Control’s Low Speed Follow (LSF) function’s ability to maintain distance in stop-go traffic with minimal driver input. The difference with Traffic Jam Assist is that it adds steering assistance to LSF.

Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, previously only available on higher range variants, is now a standard feature. Sliding sunroof (to be specific, it’s a moonroof), LED headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels are also standard.

When will the 2023 Honda CR-V be launched in Malaysia?

Currently, the all-new 2023 Honda CR-V is only available in the US, produced at Honda’s plant in Ontario in Canada, as well as at the US plants of Ohio and Indiana. Production and sales outside the US have yet to start.

We don’t expect the 2023 Honda CR-V to be launched until late-2023. Historically, there is a minimum 9 months gap between a Honda model’s debut in the US to its local launch in Malaysia.

Expect a similar increase in prices. The outgoing CR-V currently sells for RM 146,900 for the base 2.0L i-VTEC, and between RM 165,800 to RM 170,400 for the 1.5L VTEC Turbo-powered variants.