How Much Can Honda CR-V Tow? (Per Year & Model)

The Honda CR-V is a vehicle always ready for adventure. This unit features a unique design with powerful engine options to provide enough power for your towing, hauling, and off-road needs.

You should also check our list of engine sizes on the Honda CR-V models.

However, since the Honda CR-V is not a dedicated tower, you may need to know how much your car can take on the road.

Here is how much the different Honda CR-V models can tow.

How Much Can Honda CR-Vs Tow?

Most Honda CR-V models always have a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds because there were no variations in their engine configurations. The only notable variations were gross combined and vehicle weight ratings. Honda CR-Vs between 2000 and 2002 had a 1,000 lb. capacity, while models after 2003 had a 1,500 lb. capacity.

It would help to note Honda recommends trailer brakes if you plan on towing trailers over 1,000 pounds.

It’s also worth diving into how much cargo space the Honda CR-V offers.

Here are the different Honda CR-V generations and their tow capacities.

Sixth Generation: 2021– Present

The latest catalog of these exceptional units is the Honda CR-V’s sixth generation.

These units feature significant upgrades, from engine performance to trim levels offered. The turbo power in the SUV is among the most notable addition, while hybrid units also joined the catalog.

You had two engine options in this generation of Honda CR-V, a 1.5L L15BE Turbo 14 and a 2.0L LFA 14 engine.

Both options come with an e-CVT (hybrid) transmission. The 2.0L 14 engine created 204 hp and 190 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.5L variant produced 204 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque.

The VTEC Turbo helps reduce noise and vibrations at high speeds, and the hybrid powertrain can only pair with the Sport and Sport Touring variant. You might find a similar configuration in a 2.0L Atkinson cycle, four-cylinder engine with a 204 hp output.

· 2022 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 850 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2021 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 850 pounds towing and payload capacity

Fifth Generation: 2017 – 2020

According to several reviews, the fifth generation of Honda CR-V has some of the biggest and most-aggressive looking designs. This generation includes several updates, including:

• dual exhaust,
• LED headlights,
• taillights,
• and a longer wheelbase.

Two engine options were available, the turbocharged 1.5L 14 engine and the 2.4L 14 engine. The 2.4L engine produced 184 hp while the more potent, turbocharged 1.5L 14 engine created 190 hp.

This generation has a payload capacity between 1,027 to 1,388 pounds, while the towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.

Units under this generation stand an inch taller than previous models because their wheelbase is 1.6 inches longer. The longer wheelbase provides more space, making it more comfortable for adult passengers.

The hybrid option is also available, which places Honda among the first brands to have an electric SUV.

· 2020 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1106 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2019 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1,388 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2018 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1,106 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2017 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1,106 pounds towing and payload capacity

Fourth Generation: 2012 – 2016

The fourth generation of Honda CR-Vs featured an engine output upgrade.

The 2.4L inline-four engine produced up to 185 hp but retained its five-speed automatic transmission. You also had the option of a front-wheel or all-wheel drive configuration with 163 lb-ft torque at 4400 rpm.

The only engine in the fourth generation of Honda CR-Vs is a 2.4L i-VTEC inline-four variant.

This engine produced 185 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque and guaranteed a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Standard features included Bluetooth, a backup camera, steering wheel-mounted controls, and a five-inch infotainment screen.

Honda also allowed buyers to fit an automatic, dual-zone climate control system and a rear-seat DVD player for improved convenience and comfort.

· 2016 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1,027 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2015 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 1,012 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2014 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 850 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2013 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 850 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2012 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 850 pounds towing and payload capacity

Third Generation: 2007 – 2011

The first SUV to come out with a controversial front-end redesign was the third generation of the Honda CR-V. Models in this generation featured a smoother shape by moving the spare tire under the floor.

Previous units had a spare tire attached to the back, compromising comfort and overall vehicle performance.

The third generation of Honda CR-V had the K-series 2.4L 14 engine producing 166 hp and 161 lb-ft of torque. Similar to most CR-Vs, you can tow up to 1,500 pounds while the payload capacities differ.

It would also help to mention the 2.4L engine variant got a power boost to 166 hp.

However, the manufacturers dropped the five-speed manual transmission for an automatic one across all units.

· 2011 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 385 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2010 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 385 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2009 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 385 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2008 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 385 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2007 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 385 pounds towing and payload capacity

For these years, it’s also worth diving into the main competitors of the Honda CR-V.

Second Generation: 2002 – 2006

In 2002, the second generation of Honda CR-Vs upgraded their engine power from the previous generation. Although some vehicle aspects changed, most features remained the same as in the first generation.

It also saw improvements in the chassis and suspension in the seventh-generation Civic releases.

You had two engine options: the 2.0L A4 14 engine and the 2.4L A1 K23A1 14 variant. Later models came featuring a 2.2L N22A2 Turbo 14 diesel engine, while you choose between a 5- or 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

Here is how the different engine options are delivered;

· 2.0L K20A4 14 engine created 150 hp and 140 lb-ft of torque

· 2.4L K24A1 14 engine made 160 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque

· 2.2L N22A2 14 engine produced 138 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque

Honda also introduced two trims in the second generation of the CR-V.

The EX trim came with a sunroof and the LX option with side-impact front and rear airbags. A front console center tray and a reclining rear seating are other updates that make the units more comfortable.

· 2006 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 956 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2005 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 956 pounds towing and payload capacity

· 2004 Honda CR-V – 1,500 and 973 pounds towing and payload capacity

First Generation: 1997 – 2001

Honda introduced the first model of the CR-V in 1997 model.

The original 1997 CR-V set the standard for all SUVs as it came with a standard all-wheel drive and a long list of valuable equipment. Even the smallest unit had roomy back seating, side-hinge rear entry, a folding picnic table, and a front passenger storage bin.

The 2.0L B20B 14 engine was the only option for this category. However, they offered various transmission options, including two MDLA 5-speed automatics and a 5-speed manual.

The motor produced 128 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque.

First generations cannot tow because of the 4-cylinder engine equipped.

Does the Honda CR-V Have a Towing Package?

The Honda CR-V does not offer a tow package.

You will need to ensure proper installation of the following components to guarantee you a safe and practical hauling;

· Drawbar

· Clip

· Trailer hitch

· Retaining pin

· Honda CR-V trailer hitch harness

Although the CR-V lacks a tow package, it features several accessories that make it an ideal tower. These features help keep you protected and secure your cargo while driving.

These features include;

· Real-time AWD with Intelligent Control System delivers more robust performance and increases wheel power. It also improves tire grip and gives you more control of the vehicle.

· Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control to help maintain traction and allow you to maneuver corners easily.

· Hill Start Assist to help avoid roll-back when you release the brakes on an incline

· Brake Assist to help avoid a possible collision

What to Observe When Towing with the Honda CR-V

Your Honda CR-V is ideal for carrying passengers and cargo.

You can also tow a trailer with the vehicle, provided you observe the weight limits. You must follow the following to ensure you get to your destination safely.

Hitches

Hitches allow you to connect your trailer to your SUV safely. Adequately bolting the hitch before departure is crucial to maintain a stable connection when on the road.

Safety Chains

It would help always to use safety chains when towing with your Honda CR-V.

Ensure these chains secure your trailer and hitch by crossing under the tongue. If the trailer gets unhitched, the chains will catch it and maintain a connection.

Trailer Brakes and Lights

The two types of trailer brakes include surge and electric. Most boat trailers have surge brakes to avoid water damage, while electric brakes are most practical for heavier loads.

Do not attach the trailer brakes to your SUV’s hydraulic system to prevent compromising braking.

Your trailer lights configuration must comply with federal, state, or local regulations.

How Big a Boat Can a Honda CR-V Tow?

The maximum tow capacity of most Honda CR-V models is 1,500 pounds. Luckily, some boats weigh slightly under this weight.

Confirm on the owner’s manual if your SUV can tow a boat.

The 1,500 pounds tow capacity allows you to tow a small watercraft like a jet ski or a small-sized aluminum boat. 

Your transmission configuration may affect your driving, but the maximum power generated by the motor remains constant.

How Big a Camper Can a Honda CR-V Tow?

Towing a camper requires more attention than a boat, since they tend to be heavier. The Honda CR-V cannot tow most trailers because of the 1,500 tow capacity.

You can only tow small or light campers like pop-up and teardrop campers while maintaining safe towing requirements.

You must confirm your Honda CR-V’s towing and payload capacity before hauling any trailer.

Also, ensure you make the necessary efforts to install hauling equipment and a practical hitch to improve road safety.