The CR-V is a pivotal player in Honda's arsenal. This compact crossover is one of the originators of this extremely competitive compact crossover segment. In a bid to remain current and up to date, Honda has redesigned its CR-V without revolutionizing it.
The 2012 Honda CR-V gains a new front fascia, borrowed from the Crosstour, and rear-end treatment and the cabin gets a modernizing once-over. Motivation is still provided by Honda's 2.4L 4-cylinder, now up 5 hp to 185. The 5-speed autobox can transmit power to the front or all-wheels. Fuel consumption numbers, which were quite good, have improved slightly.
But then, what about across the brands? Sure, a Lexus is a luxury car, but is it really worth the $8,000 to $12,000 extra? What about when two models share 100% of their mechanicals, and equipment levels are nearly identical? We set out to find out where the $10k or so lies between the always esteemed Lexus RX450h and the underappreciated Toyota Highlander Hybrid.