The Honda CR-V has long been a favourite in the competitive compact SUV market, earning a reputation for its reliability, practicality, and family-friendly features. When Honda updated the CR-V for the 2016 model year, it introduced several notable changes that improved upon the already successful 2015 model.
If you’re shopping for a used Honda CR-V and trying to decide between these two model years, understanding the differences can help you make an informed choice. The 2016 refresh updated the exterior styling, interior quality, technology features, and even some mechanical improvements that might sway your decision.
This detailed comparison will examine how the Honda CR-V 2015 vs 2016 are different in key areas, including design, interior features, performance, safety, and value. Let’s see if the changes Honda made for 2016 are worth seeking out or if the 2015 model offers better value for money in the second-hand market.
Table of Contents
Design and Exterior Styling
First impressions matter, and the exterior styling differences between these two model years reveal Honda’s evolving design philosophy. Let’s see how the 2016 refresh changed the CR-V’s appearance.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 Honda CR-V marked the fourth generation of this popular SUV, which began in 2012. Its exterior design was characterised by:
- A somewhat conservative front fascia with a three-bar grille
- Angular headlights that wrapped around the front corners
- A practical but rather ordinary-looking profile
- Standard 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on higher trims)
- Vertical taillights that framed the rear window
- A tailgate with a relatively high loading lip
The 2015 model maintained Honda’s reputation for practical design but wasn’t winning any beauty contests compared to some of its more stylish rivals.
2016 Honda CR-V
For 2016, Honda gave the CR-V a mid-cycle refresh with several noticeable exterior changes:
- A completely redesigned front end with a more distinctive two-bar grille
- New headlights with available LED daytime running lights
- A resculpted front bumper with a more prominent lower air intake
- Updated foglight housings with chrome accents on higher trims
- Redesigned alloy wheels across all trim levels
- Revised rear bumper design
- New LED taillights with a more modern light signature
These changes gave the 2016 CR-V a more upmarket appearance and aligned it with Honda’s evolving design language. The refresh made the CR-V look more contemporary without radically changing its recognisable silhouette.
The Verdict: The 2016 CR-V’s exterior refresh successfully modernised the vehicle’s appearance. It looks more premium and distinctive than the 2015 model, which may be important if exterior styling is a priority for you.
Interior Features and Technology
Step inside both CR-V models, and you’ll notice some meaningful differences in comfort, quality, and tech. Many owners spend hours in the cabin each week, so these changes could make a big difference to their daily driving experience.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 CR-V’s interior was practical but somewhat basic in its presentation:
- Simple dashboard layout with straightforward controls
- Standard 5-inch information display (7-inch touchscreen on higher trims)
- Basic Bluetooth connectivity for phone calls and music streaming
- Single-zone climate control on most trims
- Cloth upholstery standard (leather available on higher trims)
- Manual seat adjustments on lower trims
- Rear view camera as standard
- Available navigation system on top trims
The cabin was known for its practicality rather than a luxury feel, with some hard plastics and dated-looking controls.
2016 Honda CR-V
The 2016 update brought several meaningful improvements to the interior:
- Redesigned centre console with more storage options
- Improved material quality with softer-touch surfaces in key areas
- Upgraded 7-inch touchscreen with Honda’s Display Audio interface on EX trims and above
- New available features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration
- Revised instrument cluster with a more informative driver information display
- Improved NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) insulation for a quieter cabin
- Available heated seats on more trim levels
- Configurable boot/luggage area with a lower load floor height
The technology upgrades were particularly significant, as the 2016 model’s infotainment system felt much more modern than the previous year’s offering.
- Storage and Space: Both model years offer the same generous cargo capacity of about 589 litres with the rear seats up and 1,669 litres with them folded down. However, the 2016 model’s redesigned centre console provides better small-item storage options for front passengers.
- Seating Comfort: While the basic seat designs remained similar, the 2016 model had slightly improved cushioning and better sound insulation, making for a more comfortable ride, especially on longer journeys.
- The Verdict: The 2016 CR-V offers a noticeably improved interior with better technology features and material quality. Adding Apple CarPlay and Android Auto alone might be worth the upgrade for tech-savvy drivers.
Powertrain and Performance
What’s under the bonnet makes all the difference in how a car drives. While both model years share similar engines, Honda made some tweaks for 2016 that affect the driving experience. Here’s what changed when you press the accelerator.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 CR-V came with a single engine option:
- 2.0-litre i-VTEC petrol engine (UK/European market)
- 155 PS (153 bhp) and 190 Nm of torque
- Six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
- Combined fuel economy of around 39 mpg (manual, FWD)
- 0-62 mph time of approximately 10 seconds
The 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine was also available in the UK market:
- 120 PS (118 bhp) and 300 Nm of torque
- Six-speed manual transmission
- Front-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available
- Combined fuel economy of around 62 mpg (manual, FWD)
- 0-62 mph time of approximately 11 seconds
The 2015 CR-V offered adequate performance for a family SUV, but acceleration was average for the class.
2016 Honda CR-V
For 2016, Honda kept the same basic engines but made some improvements:
- The same 2.0-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel engines
- Slightly improved fuel economy due to transmission tweaks
- Revised suspension tuning for better ride quality
- Enhanced sound insulation for a quieter driving experience
- Improved all-wheel-drive system response
- More responsive brake pedal feel
The most significant mechanical change was the improved suspension tuning, which provided a more comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics.
- Driving Experience: The 2016 CR-V feels more refined on the road thanks to its improved suspension and reduced road noise. The steering was also recalibrated to provide better feedback.
- Efficiency: While the engines remained the same, various tweaks achieved small efficiency gains. The 2016 model generally returns slightly better real-world fuel economy, particularly in motorway driving.
- The Verdict: The 2016 CR-V doesn’t offer dramatically different performance, but the refinements to the suspension, sound insulation, and drivetrain response make it a more pleasant vehicle to drive day-to-day. The improvements are subtle but noticeable, especially on longer journeys.
Safety Features
Family buyers often place safety at the top of their priority list, and this is an area where the two model years differ significantly. The 2016 refresh brought new technology aimed at preventing accidents before they happen.
2015 Honda CR-V
The 2015 CR-V came with a solid set of standard safety features:
- Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Traction Control
- Multiple airbags (front, side, and curtain)
- Tyre pressure monitoring system
- Rear view camera
- Hill Start Assist
- Whiplash-mitigating front seats
Higher trim levels offered additional safety technologies, such as Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning, but these were passive warning systems rather than active intervention systems.
2016 Honda CR-V
For 2016, Honda significantly upgraded its safety offerings by introducing Honda Sensing at higher trim levels. This suite of safety technologies included:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System (automatic emergency braking)
- Forward Collision Warning (now with improved detection)
- Lane Keeping Assist System (active steering assistance)
- Lane Departure Warning (enhanced)
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Blind Spot Information System (on certain trims)
- Cross Traffic Monitor (on certain trims)
These active safety systems represented a major step forward in crash prevention technology compared to the 2015 model.
Euro NCAP Ratings: Both the 2015 and 2016 CR-V achieved a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. However, the 2016 model with Honda Sensing would likely perform better in real-world accident scenarios due to its additional collision avoidance capabilities.
The Verdict: Safety technology is perhaps the most compelling reason to choose the 2016 CR-V over the 2015 model. The Honda Sensing suite brings the CR-V up to modern safety standards and offers genuine peace of mind, especially for family buyers.
Price
Let’s talk money—value is crucial when choosing between model years. Whether looking at original prices or today’s used market values, understanding the cost difference helps determine if the 2016 updates justify the premium.
New Car Pricing (When Released)
When new, the price difference between the 2015 and 2016 models was relatively modest:
- 2015 CR-V: Starting from approximately £22,000 for the base S model
- 2016 CR-V: Starting from approximately £22,775 for the base S model
Higher trim levels saw slightly larger price increases for 2016, primarily due to the additional technology and safety features.
Used Car Pricing (Current Market)
In today’s used car market, the price gap between comparable 2015 and 2016 CR-V models typically ranges from £1,000 to £2,000, depending on trim level, mileage, and condition. This premium for the 2016 model reflects its improved features and slightly younger age.
- Value Retention: Both model years hold their value reasonably well, but the 2016 CR-V tends to depreciate slightly less quickly due to its updated styling and technology.
- Running Costs: Maintenance costs are similar between the two model years, as they share most mechanical components. Insurance costs are comparable, though the 2016 model might be marginally more expensive due to its higher value and more sophisticated technology.
- The Verdict: While the 2016 CR-V commands a price premium on the used market, its upgrades, particularly in safety technology and infotainment, provide good value for the additional cost. However, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t need the latest technology, a well-maintained 2015 model still offers excellent practicality and reliability.
Conclusion: Honda CR-V 2015 vs 2016
After comparing these two model years across all key categories, it’s time to answer the question: Is the 2016 CR-V worth the extra money over its 2015 predecessor? Here’s our final verdict on which model year offers the best value for different types of buyers.
- More modern exterior styling
- Improved interior materials and technology
- Enhanced ride comfort and cabin quietness
- Significantly upgraded safety features with Honda Sensing
The 2016 model represents a worthwhile upgrade for most buyers if the price difference fits within your budget. The addition of smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with the comprehensive Honda Sensing safety suite, brings the CR-V up to a more modern standard that will help it feel relevant for years.
The 2015 CR-V remains a practical, reliable, and capable compact SUV. If technology and safety features aren’t your top priority, or if you’re working with a limited budget, a well-maintained 2015 model offers tremendous value in the used market.
Your decision should ultimately depend on your personal priorities and budget. If active safety features and modern connectivity are essential, the 2016 CR-V is the better choice. If you’re simply looking for a dependable family vehicle at the lowest possible price, the 2015 model will serve you well.
In either case, the Honda CR-V’s reputation for reliability, practicality, and strong resale value makes it a smart choice in the compact SUV segment.