What You Need to Know About Honda CR-V Towing Capacity (2023–2025)

When shopping for a compact SUV, versatility ranks high on most people’s list. You want space, comfort, fuel efficiency—and yes, enough power to haul your stuff when the moment calls for it. That’s where the Honda CR-V towing capacity becomes a key consideration.

Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a road tripper with gear in tow, or someone eyeing a small trailer for your side hustle, knowing how much a Honda CR-V can pull will help you figure out if it fits your lifestyle. Let’s break it down.

So, What Is the Honda CR-V Towing Capacity?

The towing capacity of a Honda CR-V varies by engine and drivetrain—but here’s the simple version:

Model Year	Powertrain	Max Towing Capacity
2023–2025	1.5L Turbo (Gas)	1,500 lbs
2023–2025	2.0L Hybrid (Sport Models)	1,000 lbs

This applies to both the 2023 and upcoming 2025 models. Honda kept these ratings consistent to maintain reliability and efficiency without putting extra stress on the vehicle’s platform​.

What Affects Towing Capacity in the CR-V?

1. Powertrain Choice
Gas-powered trims (like EX and EX-L) come with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 190 horsepower. This version offers the highest Honda CR-V towing capacity—1,500 pounds—enough for a small trailer, kayak rig, or lightweight utility setup.

Hybrid trims (Sport and Sport Touring) use a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine paired with two electric motors. While they’re efficient (up to 43 mpg city), they’re slightly less capable when it comes to towing, maxing out at 1,000 pounds​.

2. Drivetrain
The Real Time All-Wheel Drive™ system is available on all trims and standard on the Sport Touring. It helps with traction but doesn’t increase the CR-V’s towing capacity. Still, AWD is a great add-on if you’re towing in rougher weather or heading off pavement.

3. Hardware & Tech
All CR-Vs come with Hill Descent Control and advanced safety tech, which help when maneuvering with a trailer in tow. But there are no factory towing packages or heavy-duty cooling systems offered, which is why CR-V isn’t designed for heavy towing.

What Can You Tow with a Honda CR-V?

Here’s a real-world look at what each setup can manage:

• 1.5L Turbo (1,500 lbs)
  • Small open utility trailer
  • Jet ski or small fishing boat
  • Lightweight pop-up camper
  • Two dirt bikes or a compact ATV
• 2.0L Hybrid (1,000 lbs)
  • Cargo carrier trailer
  • Kayak or paddleboard trailer
  • One lightweight motorcycle
  • Small garden or farm trailer

If you’re thinking about larger trailers or frequent heavy hauls, a midsize SUV or truck may be more appropriate. But for everyday versatility with occasional towing, CR-V holds its own.

Tips for Safe Towing in a CR-V

• Stay under the max limit. Your towing weight includes cargo and passengers.
• Use a Class I hitch. This matches CR-V’s capabilities without overkill.
• Watch your tongue weight. Honda recommends no more than 10% of the trailer’s weight on the hitch.
• Brake early. Added weight = longer stopping distances.
• Check your tire pressure. Even a small load can change handling.

Final Take: Is the CR-V Good for Towing?

If your towing needs are light—think recreational or utility-based—the Honda CR-V towing capacity delivers exactly what you’d expect from a compact SUV known for balance and practicality. It’s not a workhorse, but it is a smart choice for weekend warriors who value comfort, safety, and efficiency with a side of utility.

Want more expert takes on Honda models or comparisons with similar SUVs? Stick with us—we drive, research, and report so you can feel confident on the road.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just what your SUV can tow. It’s whether you trust it to handle the journey.