Honda Malaysia Launches New CR-V e:HEV E and RS

Petaling Jaya, 3 March 2026 – Honda Malaysia has officially launched the New CR-V, marking a significant milestone in its hybrid expansion strategy with the first-ever introduction of two hybrid variants within a single Honda model line-up.

The New CR-V is now available in the e:HEV E and range-topping e:HEV RS, reinforcing Honda’s push to make advanced electrified mobility more accessible while staying true to its signature “Fun To Drive” philosophy.

Powertrain: Proven 2.0L e:HEV With SUV Muscle

At the heart of both hybrid variants is Honda’s 2.0-litre e:HEV system, delivering:

184PS
335Nm of torque

For an SUV, that 335Nm figure is the real headline. Instant electric torque means smooth, punchy acceleration. Perfect for city overtakes and highway merges.

The system intelligently switches between:

EV Drive
Hybrid Drive
Engine Drive

…automatically selecting the most efficient mode in real time.

Exclusive to e:HEV: Individual Drive Mode

Drivers can now customise driving dynamics to suit their preference, adding a layer of engagement beyond the usual Eco/Normal/Sport settings.

Exterior Updates: Sharper, More Premium

The New CR-V gets subtle refinements to enhance its upmarket appeal:

New Blazing Red Pearl colour option
Honda Authorised Solar & Security Tint by ECOTINT (standard across all variants)
18-inch alloy wheels in Berlina Black (Hybrid variants)
18-inch alloy wheels in Sparkle Silver (Turbo variant)

The RS variant further differentiates itself with:

Darker hairline film dashboard finish
RS-embossed seats

Small touches, but they elevate the cabin atmosphere noticeably.

Tech & Convenience: Big Upgrades Across All Variants

This is where the CR-V really steps forward.

9-Inch Advanced Display Audio (Standard Across All Variants)

Features include:

Wireless Apple CarPlay™
Android Auto™
Integrated Google Audio Services
Google Assistant
Google Maps navigation
Google Play app access

This is one of the most comprehensive infotainment packages in the segment.

Digital Key (First for Honda Malaysia)

Owners can now:

Lock/unlock the vehicle via smartphone
Start the engine using a mobile device
Use it as an optional primary key

Remote Window Close and Remote Power Tailgate are also integrated into the Honda CONNECT app.

That’s proper modern convenience.

Safety: Blind Spot & Cross Traffic Standardised

All variants now come with:

Blind Spot Information (BSI)

Alerts drivers via side-mirror indicators when vehicles are detected in diagonal rear blind spots.

Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM)

Warns of vehicles approaching from either side when reversing out of tight parking spaces.

These additions strengthen the CR-V’s already solid safety credentials and bring it in line with what buyers expect in this segment.

Pricing (On-the-Road, Without Insurance)

Variant	Powertrain	Price
RS	2.0L e:HEV	RM195,900
V	1.5L Turbo	RM181,900
E	2.0L e:HEV	RM178,200

Writer’s Take

This move is smart.

By offering two hybrid variants, Honda isn’t treating electrification as a niche option anymore. It’s mainstreaming it. The RM178k entry point for the e:HEV E makes hybrid ownership far more accessible in the C-SUV segment.

The RS at RM195,900? That positions it as a tech-loaded, near-premium alternative without crossing into luxury brand pricing territory.

If anything, this shows Honda doubling down on hybrids instead of rushing blindly into full EV territory, which honestly fits Malaysian buyer behaviour right now.

Two hybrids. One nameplate. Clear direction.

If this doesn’t strengthen the CR-V’s dominance in the segment, I don’t know what will.

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