Year after year, Honda creates a line of consistently award-winning SUVs, and they are arguably the most reliable brand of vehicles you could purchase. Investing in a Honda SUV means you’re guaranteed a well-built vehicle that will easily outlast any competitor model you might have considered. While used Honda SUVs are a great bargain buy, there’s nothing quite like the experience of owning a brand new model.
Here are some of the recent highlights for Honda’s most popular upcoming SUVs, along with the reasons why used SUV buyers should always opt for a Honda.
2020 Honda CR-V
Honda’s got a solid selection of four quality SUVs that can be customized to meet the needs of any driver, starting with the ever-popular Honda CR-V. This redesigned classic starts at an MSRP of $25,050 and can be found in four trim levels, each of which is also now made as Hybrid variants. Beginning with the modestly-priced LX, drivers enjoy a turbocharged engine that provides a smooth and powerful ride, producing 190 horsepower.
The EX trim adds multiple technology features to the CR-V, including a blind spot information system with cross-traffic monitor, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Sirius XM radio, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a remote engine start. This is also the trim level where the coveted HondaLink is offered, sharing key information from your vehicle to your smartphone app, like fuel range, oil life, mileage, service appointments, and vehicle location.
Moving up to the EX-L will take you into the low $30,000 range. Here you’ll find a refined leather-trimmed interior, power-adjustable seating, and power tailgate in your new CR-V. The EX-L anticipates your needs with a rearview mirror that dims automatically and a two-position memory driver’s seat that never forgets your preferred seating position. There’s lots of luxury to be found in the EX-L for a reasonable cost that is sure to stand the test of time.
For ultimate in comfort and driver-assistance, you’ll love everything the Touring CR-V has to offer. Roof rails, a wireless phone charger, and turn-by-turn directions using the Honda satellite-linked navigation system transports you on exciting adventures with ease, style, and peace of mind. Rain-sensing windshield wipers turn on when you need them, and a heated steering wheel adds a cozy touch to a chilly morning commute.
Opting for an all-new hybrid CR-V means you get all-wheel drive, 212 horsepower and an estimated 40 MPG in the city. There’s no combination quite like you’ll find in a hybrid CR-V that prioritizes both power and fuel efficiency at the same time. Using two motors, Honda’s hybrid powertrain combines the best of both worlds with specs that were almost unimaginable just a couple of years ago. Whether you prefer the hybrid or not, standard or fully-loaded, there’s a 2020 Honda CR-V with everything you could have hoped for.
2021 Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot is racing full-speed ahead into the future with a 2021 version in seven unique trims to choose from. The LX kicks off the series with an impressive 3.5-liter direct-injection i-VTEC V-6 engine that produces 280 horsepower. All-wheel drive is available with Intelligent Variable Torque Engine Management and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. This impressive engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, using idle-stop technology to maximize your fuel-efficiency. With seating for 8, the 2021 Pilot continues to be a great deal for a starting MSRP of just $32,250.
Slotted between the EX-L and Touring trims, the Special Edition Pilot starts out at an MSRP just under 40k. Roof rails, a hands-free access power tailgate, and a wireless phone charger make the Special Edition a stylish companion for your next excursion. Its 20-inch alloy wheels elevate your vehicle out of muddy terrain, protecting your vehicle from the hazards of rugged driving terrain. With its tall and commanding stance, the Special Edition Pilot is a show-stopping force on the roadways.
Building on the Success of 2019
Not surprisingly, Honda SUVs won several awards in 2019, foreshadowing the success to be expected from a brand that always delivers on its promises. In 2019, the U.S. News & World Report named Honda the best SUV brand for its fourth consecutive year. The 2019 Honda CR-V and Honda Pilot were both awarded Top Safety Picks by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), continuing a legacy for reliability that Honda has become known for.
Also, for the fourth year in a row, Kelley Blue Book recognized Honda’s excellence in two categories for 2019. The 2019 CR-V was awarded Best Buy of the Year in the Compact SUV category, noting its spacious, excellent fuel economy, and high safety ratings. In the Midsize SUV category, the 2019 Honda Pilot was named Best Buy of the Year as well. Kelley Blue Book is a trusted third-party evaluator of vehicles from all makes and models. With Honda’s favorable track record, buyers can feel confident buying a new Honda SUV.
In the Compact SUV segment, the 2019 Edmunds Buyers Most Wanted Award was also granted to the Honda CR-V. Honda Pilot buyers will be happy to learn that the 2019 ALG Residual Value Award named the Pilot as most likely to lead the Midsize Utility 3rd-Row Seating Category for its predicted value retention after three years of ownership.
Beyond the CR-V and Pilot, the Honda Passport is another award-winning SUV to consider. In 2019, the Honda Passport received a 5-star overall vehicle score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It was recognized in the top 10 list of Cars.com’s 2019 American-Made Index and U.S. News & World Report as the Best 2-row SUV for families for 2020. Honda has built its reputation on long-lasting, quality vehicles that hold onto their value. Even after many years on the road, Honda SUV drivers can rest assured that they won’t be left stranded.
Used Honda SUVs
Older Honda SUVs can also make for a smart purchase. When it comes to top-rated used SUVs, Honda always seems to make the list. Referencing Kelley Blue Book again, the 2011 Honda Pilot won the #3 spot for 10 Best SUVs for under $10,000. Its long list of convenience features and reasonable gas mileage help it beat out many newer models from other brands, including the 2012 Chevy Traverse (which came in at #7) and the 2013 Hyundai Tucson (awarded #10 on the list).
Who got #1 on the list? If you have to ask, you haven’t been paying attention. It was the Honda CR-V, of course. The 2011 Honda CR-V surpassed the 2012 Toyota Rav4 for the top spot of Best Used Cars under $10,000. Finding a Honda CR-V for this price-point is certainly a steal. If you’ve wondered whether a Honda SUV is within your budget, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the unbeatable quality to be found in a used Honda.
For a budget above $10,000, but still under $20k, there’s no reason you can’t get a Honda SUV that’s practically new. With detailed vehicle history reports now readily available at your fingertips (often included for free by used dealerships), it’s easy to view the ins and outs of your vehicle’s background to make sure it’s been well-maintained with regular service and minimal accident history. Because Honda SUVs famously hold onto their value, an SUV with five or even ten years behind it can drive like new so long as it’s been properly cared for.
