2026 Honda CR-V EXL AWD Test Drive and Features Review with Justin Thompson

If you’re eyeing up the latest SUV releases, the 2026 Honda CR-V EXL AWD deserves your attention—especially if you don’t want a hybrid model. In a recent in-depth test drive, Justin Thompson from Smail Honda in Greensburg, PA took us on a tour and spin of the newest addition to Honda’s beloved CR-V lineup, spotlighting some truly impressive updates and tech across this fresh model year.

A Modern Exterior and Practical Touches

On first glance, the 2026 CR-V EXL sticks to the stylish body lines of the previous year, but with subtle changes like new 18-inch gray alloy wheels (darker than the outgoing silver). The front is built with safety in mind, featuring Honda’s signature sensing camera and bumper sensors for systems like forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and road departure mitigation.

Around the back, additional sensors enable rear brake control—so if you’re backing and miss an obstacle, the CR-V will stop itself! The all-wheel-drive badge stands out, and the tailgate gets the full smart treatment, with hands-free operation, programmable height, and even unique lock/unlock buttons.

Everyday Convenience: Thoughtful and User-Friendly

Remote start comes standard—just lock and hold, and the CR-V will precondition your cabin to a comfortable 72°F. Even better, it remembers whether to activate seat and mirror heaters or adjust the AC, so you always step into a just-right interior no matter the weather.

The keyless and smart entry features are not only convenient, but also foolproof—the car won’t let you lock your fob inside, and it’ll auto-lock as you walk away.

One standout point: the rear doors open an impressive 90 degrees. As Justin notes, that’s rare for SUVs and makes loading people, pets, or cargo a breeze. Plus, the split-folding rear seats offer eight reclining positions to maximize comfort, and backseat passengers get USB-C charging and rear vents.

Step Inside: Luxury, Technology & Personalization

The EXL trim boasts a full leather interior, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and shifter. The new digital dashboard puts all major Honda Sensing safety settings at your fingertips—things like blind-spot info, low-speed brake control, and parking sensors can be enabled or customized from the steering wheel menu.

Dual-zone climate control lets driver and passenger customize their comfort, with heated seats that auto-activate when you remote start in cold weather. And for families or couples sharing the car, each key fob can save personalized vehicle settings—including memory seating, climate, and more.

Driving Experience: Smooth, Safe, and Tech-Packed

Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbo engine pushing 190 horsepower, more than enough for daily drives and highway merging. The all-wheel drive system adapts to snow and road conditions, and drive modes (Normal, Econ, Snow) give you added confidence.

Daily driving is easier with features like brake hold for hills and stoplights, a clear multi-angle backup camera, and front/rear sensors that beep and alert you as you park. A robust suite of automated driver aids keeps you in your lane, maintains safe following distances, and can even detect drowsiness through the driver attention monitor.

Infotainment: Wireless & Seamless

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, and a wireless phone charger keeps your device topped up. Voice command integration makes navigation (including Waze and Google Maps) straightforward and safe, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel.

The Honda Assurance

Every 2026 CR-V comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile comprehensive warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Honda even covers your first year’s scheduled maintenance—oil changes, tire rotations, and more.

Shop for a 2026 Honda CR-V EXL AWD

Final Thoughts

Justin Thompson delivers a thorough walk-through that confirms why the CR-V continues to be Honda’s most popular offering: value-packed, feature-rich, and designed for modern life. If you’re in the Greensburg area, you can book a test drive or visit Smail Honda for your own hands-on experience.

For more details or to watch the full review, check out Justin’s test drive on the Smail Honda YouTube channel or visit smailhonda.com. If you stop by, be sure to ask for Justin and experience the 2026 CR-V EXL AWD for yourself!