Honda’s 2016 CR-V is a compact SUV with five trims that fit most budgets, and no confusing package options. The base LX has roomy cargo space, mid-range EX provides in-demand amenities, and top-of-the-line Touring adds driver memory and safety technology.
Key Points
- The 2016 Honda CR-V makes it easy to find the SUV loaded with the features that you most desire. Its five trims start with the decently equipped LX and climb to the Touring that includes Honda Sensing safety technology.
- The base LX gives you plenty of room for your family of five, a 185-hp engine, and your choice of front or all-wheel drive. Bluetooth hands-free calling and cruise control are included.
- The SE trim is supposed to stand for sport, but all it gives you is a nicer set of wheels and tinted glass.
- The EX represents the most popular option after the LX as it brings a moonroof, smart key, and heated front seats. The EX-L adds leather trim and a premium sound system.
- Drive with added confidence in the Touring and the autonomous driver-assist features such as smart cruise control and lane-departure mitigation.
2016 Honda CR-V LX Includes Bluetooth Technology, a Backup Camera, and Cruise Control as Standard Equipment
The base LX trim on the 2016 Honda CR-V provides a nice bang for your buck. Equipped with the 2.4L 185-horsepower engine and continuously variable transmission, it has all the muscle required for commuting and weekend adventures. All trims were offered with front-wheel or all-wheel drive and boast a spacious 37.2 cu. ft. of cargo space behind the second-row seats.
Hands-free calling and streaming are available through Bluetooth and a single USB port. Cruise control, steering wheel-mounted controls, and a backup camera round out the tech toys. You also have a tire pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, and a split-folding back seat.
2016 Honda CR-V SE Trim Adds Minimal Upgrades, Including Privacy Glass, Set of 17-inch Alloy Wheels
The SE could be listed as an LX with an appearance package. The sport version of the 2016 Honda CR-V gives you 17-inch alloy wheels, which are larger and dressier than the standard 16-inch steel wheels. Privacy glass is a nice upgrade as it protects your kids and your backpacks from prying eyes. The proximity security system sounds an alarm if somebody bumps into the car or tries to jimmy the ignition. The SE gives you no performance or interior upgrades, so avoid paying extra for this trim.
2016 CR-V EX’s Heated Front Seats, Push-button Start, Moonroof Provide Extra Comfort and Luxury
If you want a compact SUV loaded with a decent combination of the most popular perks look at the 2016 Honda CR-V EX. The fun starts with a power moonroof and heated front seats. A smart key stays in your purse or backpack while unlocking the door and enabling the push-to-start ignition. The power driver’s seat features lumbar support.
A seven-inch touchscreen connects you to your infotainment system. The HondaLink app is included, which allows you to access roadside assistance, check your maintenance history, and set up an appointment at the dealer via your iPhone. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are not available.
Blindspot detection appears at this level but only issues an audible and visual alert. You need to look at the Touring if you want autonomous driver-assist features.
2016 CR-V EX-L’s Enhanced Luxury Includes Leather-trimmed Seats, Climate Control
Do you expect leather-trimmed seating in your daily driver? The 2016 Honda CR-V EX-L adds that premium feature to the EX list of amenities. Roof rails give you the option of securing a bike, luggage, ski, or boat rack up top. The heated power side mirrors include turn signals and the dual-zone automatic climate control maintains a steady cabin temperature. You get to rock out to the seven-speaker 328-watt surround sound system while listening to your favorite SiriusXM subscription shows. Voice-controlled navigation also appears on the infotainment system.
2016 CR-V Touring Trim’s Power Tailgate Adds Modern Touch Along with Smart Safety Features
The top trim for the 2016 Honda CR-V is the Touring, but you won’t be wowed by a custom interior. The real difference for this ride is its suite of Honda Sensing technology. If the SUV detects a person or obstacle in the road, it will apply the brakes to avoid a collision.
Smart cruise control works to keep a safe distance between you and other cars during evening commutes. The lane-keeping feature watches the dotted lines and nudges your steering to put you back on track while sounding an alert. A power tailgate, two-person driver memory, and a set of 18-inch wheels complete the perks.
2016 Honda CR-V EX is the Best Trim Option with the most Practical and Affordable Features
If you are on the hunt for a reliable compact SUV and don’t need a bunch of bells and whistles, the 2016 Honda CR-V LX provides a nice mix of function and comforts in a base model. The EX gives you most of the tech toys that you want without splurging for leather or navigation.
If safety is a key consideration, only the Touring has the smart driver-assist technologies that you need. Whichever vehicle you choose, you will be joining a legion of loyal and satisfied owners.
Photos: Honda
