Honda CR-V vs. Jeep Wrangler

Midsize SUVs are perfect for offroading adventures yet compact enough to fit in parking spaces in the city comfortably. This versatility makes them incredibly popular with families or those who want offroading capabilities. The Honda CR-V and the Jeep Wrangler are two of the most well-known models on the market. They both have a reputation for reliability and performance. But how are they different? 

If you're searching for a midsize SUV for your next vehicle, then you're probably researching which model is right for you. Though the CR-V and the Wrangler are highly competitive with each other, you may find that one works better for you than the other. Even though they share similarities, each model has its own advantages and disadvantages. We'll go over the details of each model separately, plus we'll compare them in some of the most important car shopping categories, like price, fuel efficiency, performance, and design. 

Honda CR-V (2023)

The current model year Honda CR-V can be purchased in four different trims–the EX, Sport Hybrid, EX-L, and Sport Touring Hybrid. The base trim (EX) costs $31,610, while the highest trim (Sport Touring Hybrid) costs $39,100.

There are plenty of technology features on this model that emphasizes convenience and comfort. Some of these features available in all trims include a push button start, ambient lighting, and a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

The CR-V also comes equipped with a lot of standard safety features, like the Honda Sensing Driver Assistive Features, a blind spot information system, and a multi-angle rearview camera.

Jeep Wrangler (2023)

The current model year Jeep Wrangler is available in a lot of trims. The twelve trims available include the Sport, Willys Sport, Sport S, Freedom, Willys, Sport Altitude, Rubicon, Sahara, Sport RHD, Sahara Altitude, High Altitude, and Rubicon 392. The base trim (Sport) costs about $31,195, while the highest trim (Rubicon 392) costs an estimated $82,495. 

The Wrangler is equipped with helpful technology features throughout all twelve trims. Some of the features that you can enjoy in all trims include a touchscreen display center with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital cluster display, and remote keyless entry. 

The Wrangler also offers safety features designed to help you on the road and keep you safe. Some of the features include a rearview camera, forward collision warning, and an emergency services button. 

How Do They Compare?

The Honda CR-V Has More Affordable Trims Available Than the Jeep Wrangler

When it comes to the most affordable price range, you'll appreciate the Honda CR-V vs. the Jeep Wrangler. Though the Jeep Wrangler has an impressive number of trims available compared to the Honda CR-V, most of them are expensive. However, both base trims are sold at about the same price. So if you are after the base model, then you won't notice much of a difference in price. But if you are looking to buy higher trims with some of the features and technology you want, then you'll enjoy the CR-V's reasonably affordable price range.

The Honda CR-V Has More Space Than the Jeep Wrangler

Overall, if you are looking for an SUV that is comfortable for your passengers and has a lot of cargo space for gear, then you'll prefer the Honda CR-V vs. the Jeep Wrangler. The Honda CR-V is designed comfortably, giving the front-seat passengers as well as the backseat passengers plenty of legroom and headspace. 

The CR-V also has a lot of cargo room available. So if you want to go on a weekend getaway and need to pack all of your outdoor gear, the CR-V will work well. Or, if you need the space for your daily life, like groceries or lugging around your kids' sports equipment, then you'll appreciate the cargo space of the CR-V.

The Honda CR-V Has a Sleeker Design than the Jeep Wrangler

The interior of the Honda CR-V is a bit more refined than the Jeep Wrangler. Whereas the Wrangler has a durable appearance, the CR-V has a sleek design. With standard features like a moonroof, floor mats, and ambient lighting, you'll enjoy the interior of the Honda CR-V vs. the Jeep Wrangler.

The Jeep Wrangler Has Better Offroading Capabilities Than the Honda CR-V

The Jeep Wrangler has better offroading capabilities than the CR-V. The Wrangler comes standard with four-wheel drive. In comparison, the CR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive. The Jeep Wrangler also has more towing capabilities than the CR-V. 

If you intend to do a lot of offroading, then Jeep Wrangler will perform incredibly well. It's designed with durability in mind, so you'll find that the Wrangler performs much better than the CR-V when you're driving under tough conditions.

The Honda CR-V Has Better Fuel Efficiency Than the Jeep Wrangler

The Honda CR-V has much better fuel efficiency than the Jeep Wrangler. The CR-V has a 28 City/34 Highway mpg. In contrast, the Wrangler has a 17 City/25 Highway mpg. If you plan to do a lot of driving around town or the highway, you'll appreciate the amount of savings you'll see at the pump. If you want a vehicle that is fuel efficient, then you'll prefer the Honda CR-V vs. the Jeep Wrangler.

The Jeep Wrangler Has a More Powerful Engine Than the Honda CR-V

The Wrangler has a much more powerful engine than the CR-V. It has an impressive 285 @ 6400 horsepower. In contrast, the CR-V produces 190 @ 6000 horsepower. If you care about having a powerful engine, then you'll prefer the Wrangler over the CR-V.

Car shopping can be hard when you are choosing between two similar models. However, if you are clear about your budget and needs, you'll be able to find a model and trim that meets your expectations. If you are looking for a model that performs well offroading and has a powerful engine, then you'll want to consider the Jeep Wrangler. However, if you plan on using your SUV mostly in town, then you'll appreciate the sophisticated design and host of standard technology features that the Honda CR-V offers to drivers.