Honda introduced a major update to its best-selling SUV, the CR-V, with the official unveiling of the 2026 TrailSport Hybrid model. This new TrailSport trim marks Honda’s first hybrid-focused off-road variant, significantly expanding the CR-V’s versatility and appeal.
The TrailSport trim features rugged design elements, including a black and silver combination that enhances its tough front and rear appearance. It features 18-inch Shark Gray wheels and Continental CrossContact ATR all-terrain tires. The standard CR-V is expected to compete directly with the popular RAV4 in the North American market.
The Transformed CR-V
TrailSport Highlights Its Strengths
The CR-V TrailSport is based on the existing Sport Hybrid but clearly stands apart in appearance and functionality. The Ash Green Metallic exterior color is the first used in Honda’s SUV lineup, complemented by exclusive badges, blacked-out exterior trim, and a new wheel design. The concave structure of the wheel rim is a practical design intended to reduce valve damage in off-road conditions.
The interior also receives a robust upgrade, featuring fabric seats paired with a power tailgate for the first time, custom embroidered logos, and all-weather floor mats. Details that evoke an off-road spirit, like the orange badges and ambient interior lighting, are incorporated. The orange ambient lighting is applied to the headrests, footwells, and cupholders, creating a unique atmosphere.
Other standard features include an eight-speaker sound system, a 10.2-inch digital cluster, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel. Honda has improved low-speed traction performance across all AWD hybrid models, enhancing stability during off-road driving. As a result, many experts believe the vehicle is fully prepared as an off-road model.
Honda’s Bestseller Strategy Targets Hybrid SUVs
Honda expanded the CR-V lineup to seven trims by adding the new TrailSport trim. The updated CR-V, consisting of three gasoline models and four hybrid models, became a key player, with hybrid models accounting for more than half of total sales. The 2026 TrailSport Hybrid maintains a system output of 204 horsepower while enhancing off-road performance, increasing its practical range.
In addition to the TrailSport, the higher-end Sport Touring trim now includes a built-in Google infotainment system, significantly improving the user experience. Google Maps and Assistant can be used without additional connections, and the drive mode settings can be customized. All trims have wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad, enhancing the digital user experience.
The CR-V solidified its position as a bestseller, with over 400,000 units sold in the U.S. last year. Sales continue to rise in the first quarter of this year. The 2026 TrailSport goes beyond a simple model update and presents Honda’s strategy to tackle the hybrid SUV market. With its stronger off-road appeal than competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, all eyes are on Honda’s next steps in the Honda segment.
