Fresh-faced and better equipped, the 2020 CR-V is now an even more compelling choice among compact SUVs. Aside from the styling improvements versus last year's model, Honda is now offering a hybrid powertrain which consists of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors; the base 2.4-liter four-cylinder has been dropped and the previously optional turbocharged 1.5-liter engine is now standard on all non-hybrid CR-Vs. More standard and optional equipment enhances the CR-V's value for 2020, starting with a suite of driver-assistance features that includes automated emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control that will be standard on all models.
Pros Classy interior trimmings, two fuel-efficient powertrains, voluminous cargo hold.
Cons Lackluster infotainment performance, could be quicker in acceleration testing, limited towing capacity.
The 2020 Honda CR-V hits right at the heart of many buyers’ needs: comfortable, spacious, quiet, and efficient.
Pros Streamlined powertrain lineup Comfortable ride… ..and a comfortable interior Affordable base trims Intuitive and easy to use
Cons Group-study looks Base infotainment is lacking Others go off road better
The 2020 Honda CR-V comes with front wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: continuously variable-speed automatic.Turbocharged 1.5-liter engine now standard.Advanced driver safety features standard on every trim level.Revised exterior styling.
Pros Quick acceleration plus thrifty fuel economy Roomy interior with cavernous cargo capacity Rides comfortably yet handles corners athletically Plentiful and thoughtful storage areas
Cons Touchscreen can be finicky to use and lacks a separate tuning knob
The 2020 Subaru Outback is more refined than ever and features the same, remarkable off-road capability.
Pros Outstanding capability Generous 11.6-inch touchscreen Spacious interior 29 mpg combined with base engine Comfortable ride
Cons Styling isn’t a huge leap Base engine isn’t overwhelming Small-item storage lacking
The Outback is fully redesigned for 2020.New 11.6-inch tablet-style interface for the infotainment system.Two available engines, including a 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder,Part of the sixth Outback generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Spacious and comfortable cabin Optional turbocharged engine makes excellent power Loading the roof or cargo area is easier compared to most SUVs Above-average off-road ability
Cons Small-item cabin storage is compromised by big center touchscreen Bumpy ride quality with turbocharged XT models Small climate-control touchscreen buttons can be hard to use
The new Outback has more powerful engines, new tech, and, of course, all-wheel drive.
Pros Competent off-road, spacious interior, leading-edge tech features.
Cons Ho-hum powertrains, slow design evolution, occasionally sluggish CVT.
