Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2018 Honda CR-V? You've come to the right place! This super popular SUV is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall practicality. But with several different models available, it can be tough to figure out which one is the perfect fit for you and your needs. No worries, though, because we are going to break down each trim level and highlight the key features and differences so you can make an informed decision. Let's dive right in and get you cruising in the CR-V of your dreams!

Overview of the 2018 Honda CR-V

The 2018 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that offers a winning combination of comfort, space, and efficiency. It's a fantastic choice for families, commuters, and anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. Before we get into the specifics of each model, let's cover some of the basics that apply to the entire 2018 CR-V lineup.

• Engine Options: The majority of 2018 CR-Vs come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower. The base LX model features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 184 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
• Fuel Efficiency: One of the CR-V's strong suits is its excellent fuel economy. The 1.5-liter turbo engine achieves impressive numbers, making it a great option for those who want to save money at the pump. Expect to see around 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway with the front-wheel-drive version.
• Interior Space: The CR-V boasts a spacious and well-designed interior. There's plenty of room for passengers in both the front and rear seats, and the cargo area is generous, making it ideal for hauling groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. The rear seats also fold down easily, creating even more cargo space when needed.
• Safety Features: Honda is known for its commitment to safety, and the 2018 CR-V is no exception. All models come standard with a rearview camera, and higher trims include advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking.

2018 Honda CR-V: LX Model

The 2018 Honda CR-V LX is the base model, but don't let that fool you – it still offers a solid set of features and represents great value for the money. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of the higher trims, it covers the essentials and provides a comfortable and reliable driving experience. It's a great option for those on a budget who still want the practicality and dependability of a CR-V.

• Engine: The LX is the only trim level that comes with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower. While it's not as powerful or fuel-efficient as the 1.5-liter turbo engine, it still provides adequate performance for most driving situations.
• Key Features: Standard features on the LX include a rearview camera, automatic climate control, a 5-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a four-speaker audio system. It also comes with Honda's signature Magic Seat, which allows you to easily fold down the rear seats for added cargo space.
• Pros: Affordable price point, reliable engine, and standard safety features. It's a great entry into the CR-V lineup without breaking the bank.
• Cons: Lacks some of the more advanced features found on higher trims, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced safety technologies. The 5-inch LCD screen is also quite small compared to the larger screens on other models.

2018 Honda CR-V: EX Model

Stepping up to the 2018 Honda CR-V EX gets you a significant upgrade in terms of features and technology. This trim level adds a lot of desirable amenities that enhance the overall driving experience. For many buyers, the EX represents the sweet spot in the CR-V lineup, offering a great balance of features and value.

• Engine: The EX comes standard with the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower. This engine provides better fuel economy and more responsive performance compared to the 2.4-liter engine in the LX model.
• Key Features: In addition to the features found on the LX, the EX adds a 7-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a sunroof, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and Honda Sensing (which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking). It also gets upgraded alloy wheels and fog lights.
• Pros: The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a huge plus, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system. The Honda Sensing suite of safety features provides added peace of mind, and the heated seats and sunroof add to the overall comfort.
• Cons: The price is higher than the LX, but the added features are well worth the cost for most buyers. Some users have found the touchscreen interface to be a bit laggy at times.

2018 Honda CR-V: EX-L Model

The 2018 Honda CR-V EX-L takes the features of the EX model and adds even more luxury and convenience. The “L” in EX-L stands for leather, which is one of the most notable upgrades. This trim level is perfect for those who want a more premium feel without going all the way to the top-of-the-line Touring model.

• Engine: Like the EX, the EX-L is powered by the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
• Key Features: Building upon the EX features, the EX-L adds leather upholstery, a power tailgate, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a premium audio system. Some EX-L models also include navigation.
• Pros: The leather upholstery gives the interior a more upscale feel, and the power tailgate adds convenience when loading and unloading cargo. The upgraded audio system provides a better listening experience.
• Cons: The price is higher than the EX, and the added features may not be worth the cost for everyone. The navigation system is optional on some models, which is a bit disappointing at this price point.

2018 Honda CR-V: Touring Model

The 2018 Honda CR-V Touring is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most features and the highest level of luxury. If you want all the bells and whistles, the Touring is the way to go. This trim level includes everything from the EX-L and adds even more premium features.

• Engine: The Touring model also uses the 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
• Key Features: In addition to the features found on the EX-L, the Touring adds a hands-free access power tailgate, LED headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a premium audio system with subwoofer, and integrated navigation. It also gets unique exterior trim and larger alloy wheels.
• Pros: The hands-free access power tailgate is a fantastic feature when your hands are full, and the LED headlights provide excellent visibility at night. The integrated navigation system is accurate and easy to use, and the upgraded audio system sounds fantastic.
• Cons: The Touring is the most expensive model in the CR-V lineup, and the added features may not be worth the cost for some buyers. However, if you want the best of the best, the Touring is the way to go.

Which 2018 Honda CR-V Model Is Right for You?

Choosing the right 2018 Honda CR-V model depends on your individual needs and budget. Here's a quick recap to help you decide:

• LX: Best for budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable and practical SUV without a lot of extra features.
• EX: The sweet spot in the lineup, offering a great balance of features and value. Includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Honda Sensing.
• EX-L: Adds leather upholstery and a power tailgate for a more premium feel.
• Touring: The top-of-the-line model with all the bells and whistles, including a hands-free access power tailgate, LED headlights, and integrated navigation.

Consider what features are most important to you and compare the prices of each model to find the one that fits your needs and budget. No matter which trim level you choose, the 2018 Honda CR-V is a great SUV that offers reliability, efficiency, and practicality. Happy car shopping!