CR-V Hybrid vs R2
Same class, different makers. The CR-V Hybrid (Honda) and the R2 (Rivian) are built for the same kind of buyer. Where they differ, they differ gently, which makes the few meaningful gaps worth a closer look.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance R2 wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance1.1
- Engine & Performance10.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The R2 has 452 hp more power
The R2 clearly leads on total system output, and 656 hp versus 204 hp is a difference that reaches well beyond the spec sheet. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The R2 has 362 lb-ft more torque
On torque, the R2 posts 609 lb-ft against 247 lb-ft for the CR-V Hybrid, a gap big enough to feel in everyday use. The R2’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
-
The R2 has
The CR-V Hybrid lists less (106.3 in) and the R2 more (115.6 in). It’s a preference, not a verdict. Neither is better in general; it’s a trade-off between cabin space and maneuverability.
Design & Size
Dimensions
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 185.6 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 75 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 67 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in | 115.6 in |
Engine & Performance
R2 leads
In this area the R2 has a lead the CR-V Hybrid can’t close. The R2 wins here with 452 hp more power. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board. Weighing only engine & performance, the R2 comes out ahead.
Total system output
CR-V Hybrid: 204 hp R2: 656 hp The R2’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed.
Torque
CR-V Hybrid: 247 lb-ft R2: 609 lb-ft More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
Side by side, the space & practicality figures for the CR-V Hybrid and the R2 barely differ. The takeaway: space & practicality is not where these two differ.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
You can skip ahead if off-road & towing was your deciding factor: the two are evenly matched here. Either car will serve you equally well on off-road & towing.
Safety & Tech
There isn’t a number to compare on safety & tech, just names. Look at the rows below to see how the CR-V Hybrid and the R2 differ.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Hybrid | Battery electric |
| Engine | 2.0L I4 two-motor hybrid | Dual electric motors (Performance) |
| Total system output | 204 hp | 656 hp (winner) Most powerful in class |
| Torque | 247 lb-ft | 609 lb-ft (winner) Most torque in class |
| Transmission | eCVT | Single-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | FWD (AWD available) | AWD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 40 mpg Most efficient in class | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 43 mpg Best city economy | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 36 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Electric range | N/A (not specified) | 330 mi Longest electric range |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | N/A (not specified) | 29 cu ft |
| Cargo (seats folded) | N/A (not specified) | 79.4 cu ft Most room, seats folded |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Ground clearance | N/A (not specified) | 9.60 in Highest ground clearance |
| Max towing | N/A (not specified) | 4,400 lb Best towing in class |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Apple CarPlay / Android Auto | N/A (not specified) | Not available (Rivian software) |
| Driver-assist suite | Honda Sensing | N/A (not specified) |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
Dimensions
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Length | N/A (not specified) | 185.6 in |
| Width (no mirrors) | N/A (not specified) | 75 in |
| Height | N/A (not specified) | 67 in |
| Wheelbase | 106.3 in | 115.6 in |
Price
| Spec | CR-V Hybrid | R2 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | N/A (not specified) | $57,990 Priciest in class |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the R2 if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (656 hp vs 204 hp)
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (609 lb-ft vs 247 lb-ft of torque)
- you already know your way around Rivian’s products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the CR-V Hybrid or the R2?
On the specs compared here, the R2 makes more sense for most buyers; the CR-V Hybrid doesn’t win a single measurable area.
Executive Summary
Comparing the CR-V Hybrid and the R2 feels a bit like comparing two good restaurants with different menus. The biggest reason I lean toward the R2 is simple: it has 452 hp more power.
Your priorities do the choosing here: the things a spec sheet can’t capture points to the CR-V Hybrid, engine & performance to the R2.
My pick: the R2.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.