2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid: Cheaper than RAV4 Hybrid, but slightly less efficient

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Fifteen years ago, this story would likely have revolved around the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but times have changed. Today, the CR-V and RAV4 are the Japanese automakers' big breadwinners, so naturally, Honda concocted a proper rival to the mighty popular RAV4 Hybrid.

On Thursday, Honda announced pricing and fuel economy estimates for the 2020 CR-V Hybrid, and for those shopping the hybrid crossover segment, Honda's newcomer will cost $28,870 after a $1,120 destination charge. Those who go home with one will find the hybrid crossover returns a very respectable EPA-estimated 40 miles per gallon city, 35 mpg highway and 38 mpg combined.

How well does the 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid challenge the RAV4 Hybrid when it comes to buyers' bank accounts and how frugally it sips fuel? It's a mixed story.

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid returns ever so slightly better fuel economy, eking out a few more miles per gallon at 41 city, 38 highway and 40 combined. Ah, but Honda's played the pricing game and undercut its rival from Toyota. The base CR-V Hybrid, which wears the LX trim, costs $100 less than the RAV4 Hybrid. In the grand scheme of things, it's not much, but it does give Honda some advertising bragging rights.

Moving into better equipped CR-V Hybrid models, the EX comes next and will cost $31,380; the EX-L rings in at $33,870; and the range-topping Touring boasts a price of $37,070. It's worth noting not every CR-V Hybrid is cheaper than its RAV4 Hybrid rival -- the Touring model actually costs $100 more than the comparable Toyota. Otherwise, there's a few hundred dollars separating the fuel-sipping crossovers between comparable trim levels.

Like the RAV4 Hybrid, every CR-V Hybrid comes with all-wheel drive. Power comes from a 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle inline-four engine, which musters 212 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque. The engine works with a small electric motor and battery to give the CR-V its hybrid credentials.

Buyers will find Honda's suite of active safety gear standard on every CR-V Hybrid, and compared to nonhybrid models, each gets smart keyless entry, pushbutton start and LED headlights as standard equipment. Moving through the EX, EX-L and Touring models unlocks more comforts.

Buyers will find the 2020 CR-V Hybrid at dealers shortly. Those not looking for an electrified model should note the standard 2020 CR-V is already on sale.