Honda CR-V Towing Capacity: What Can This Compact SUV Really Tow?

The 2025 Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that blends everyday practicality with surprising towing strength. Ideal for light trailers, bikes, or kayaks, it offers a balance of efficiency and capability. Here are seven reasons the CR-V’s towing capacity shines for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Capable Towing Capacity

The 2025 Honda CR-V tows up to 1,500 pounds across all trims, perfect for small trailers, jet skis, or lightweight campers. Its unibody construction ensures stability, making it a reliable choice for weekend adventures or small hauling tasks. This capacity suits most compact SUV needs.

Compared to rivals like the Toyota RAV4 (1,500 pounds) or Subaru Forester (1,500 pounds standard, 3,000 pounds Wilderness), the CR-V holds its own. It’s designed for light towing, offering confidence for families hitting the road with recreational gear.

• Towing Capacity: Up to 1,500 pounds with proper equipment.

• Competitor Comparison: Matches RAV4 and standard Forester.

• Ideal Uses: Small trailers, jet skis, or bike racks.

• Safety Tip: Confirm towing setup for safe limits.

2. Efficient Turbocharged Engine

The CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant delivers steady pulling strength for its 1,500-pound towing capacity, ensuring smooth performance on highways or gentle inclines. It’s a solid choice for light towing.

Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the engine optimizes power delivery for towing efficiency. This setup minimizes strain, making short hauls feel effortless while maintaining fuel economy for daily drives.

• Engine Specs: 1.5L turbo with 190 hp and 179 lb-ft torque.

• Transmission: CVT for smooth towing performance.

• Power Delivery: Steady strength for light loads.

• Fuel Efficiency: Balances towing with economical driving.

3. Real-Time AWD Support

The CR-V’s available Real-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) maintains its 1,500-pound towing capacity while enhancing traction on wet, snowy, or gravel roads. The system adjusts power distribution instantly, ensuring control when towing in challenging conditions, unlike front-wheel-drive-only competitors.

Front-wheel drive (FWD) models offer the same towing capacity with better fuel efficiency on flat terrains. With Snow Mode standard on all trims, the CR-V adapts to slick surfaces, boosting towing confidence year-round.

• AWD Capability: Enhances traction for towing in tough conditions.

• FWD Option: Same capacity with improved fuel economy.

• Snow Mode: Optimizes grip on slippery surfaces.

• Versatility: Adapts to varied towing environments.

4. Towing Safety Features

The Honda Sensing suite, standard on all CR-V trims, enhances towing safety with features like Collision Mitigation Braking and Lane Keeping Assist. These systems reduce driver fatigue and improve control, ensuring safer hauls on busy roads or long trips.

The multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines simplifies hitching and maneuvering with a trailer. While not equipped with dedicated trailer sway control, the CR-V’s Vehicle Stability Assist helps maintain balance, making light towing secure.

• Honda Sensing: Includes braking and lane-keeping aids.

• Rearview Camera: Simplifies hitching with dynamic guidelines.

• Vehicle Stability Assist: Enhances balance during towing.

• Driver Support: Reduces fatigue on towing trips.

5. Accessory Towing Upgrades

The CR-V supports towing with optional accessories like a Class I trailer hitch, boosting its 1,500-pound capacity. A wiring harness ensures safe trailer light connections, while a transmission cooler, available through Honda dealers, prevents overheating during extended tows.

Roof rails and crossbars, standard or optional on higher trims, support up to 165 pounds, perfect for bikes or kayaks alongside towing. These accessories make the CR-V adaptable for light hauling and outdoor adventures.

• Class I Hitch: Supports 1,500-pound towing capacity.

• Wiring Harness: Ensures safe trailer light functionality.

• Transmission Cooler: Prevents overheating on long tows.

• Roof Rails: Holds 165 pounds for extra gear.

6. Roomy Cargo and Passenger Space

The CR-V offers up to 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats folded, ideal for gear alongside towing. Its low cargo floor and wide liftgate simplify loading, making it practical for family trips or outdoor activities.

Seating five passengers comfortably, the CR-V balances towing with interior versatility. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats provide flexible storage, ensuring space for luggage or equipment while hauling a trailer.

• Cargo Space: Up to 76.5 cubic feet for gear storage.

• Seating Capacity: Fits five passengers comfortably.

• Split-Folding Seats: 60/40 configuration for flexibility.

• Liftgate Access: Wide opening for easy loading.

7. Hybrid Towing Efficiency

The CR-V Hybrid, available on Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid trims, maintains the 1,500-pound towing capacity with a 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain delivering 204 horsepower. This system offers smooth power for light towing while achieving up to 40 mpg combined.

The hybrid’s regenerative braking and Eco Drive Mode optimize efficiency, extending range during towing trips. It’s a smart choice for eco-conscious drivers needing light hauling without sacrificing fuel economy.

• Hybrid Capacity: 1,500 pounds with 204 hp.

• Fuel Economy: Up to 40 mpg combined for efficiency.

• Eco Drive Mode: Enhances range during towing.

• Regenerative Braking: Boosts efficiency on hauls.

Conclusion

The Honda CR-V’s towing capacity, backed by its efficient engine, AWD, and smart tech, makes it a standout for light hauling. Ideal for families or adventurers, it delivers versatility and comfort. With our reliable towing service in Jacksonville, Tennessee, STUCK makes sure drivers always have help within reach.