Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD, a compact SUV that has consistently ranked high in its class. We’re going to explore everything this car has to offer, from its performance and interior features to its technology and overall driving experience. If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile SUV, this review is just for you.

Overview of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD stands out as a compelling choice in the crowded compact SUV market. Known for its reliability, practicality, and overall value, the CR-V has earned a loyal following. The EX-L trim, in particular, adds a touch of luxury and convenience to the already impressive package. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system enhances its appeal, providing added confidence in various driving conditions. This model year refines the CR-V's strengths, offering a well-rounded vehicle that caters to a wide range of drivers. The CR-V's blend of comfort, technology, and safety features make it a strong contender for anyone seeking a versatile and dependable SUV. From daily commutes to weekend getaways, the 2019 CR-V EX-L AWD aims to deliver a consistently positive driving experience. It's a vehicle that understands the needs of modern drivers, providing a balance of efficiency, space, and advanced features. Whether you're a family needing a practical vehicle or an individual seeking a comfortable and capable SUV, the CR-V EX-L AWD is worth considering. Its reputation for reliability and strong resale value further sweetens the deal. So, let's dive into the specifics and see what makes this SUV a standout choice.

Performance and Handling

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD performs on the road. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This little powerhouse delivers a respectable 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Now, that might not sound like a ton of power, but it's more than adequate for daily driving and provides enough oomph for merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is designed to maximize fuel efficiency, and it does a pretty good job. It might not be the sportiest transmission out there, but it keeps the engine in its sweet spot, providing smooth and consistent acceleration. One of the significant advantages of the EX-L trim is the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This system automatically distributes power to the wheels that need it most, providing enhanced traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions like rain or snow. It gives you that extra bit of confidence when the weather gets dicey. The CR-V's handling is also commendable. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up bumps and providing a smooth ride on most road surfaces. While it's not a sports car, the CR-V handles corners with composure and feels planted on the road. Overall, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most exciting SUV out there, but it's reliable, efficient, and handles well in various conditions, making it a great choice for everyday driving.

Interior Comfort and Features

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to be inside the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD. The interior is where the EX-L trim really shines, offering a noticeable step up in terms of comfort and features compared to the lower trims. The leather seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The driver's seat has power adjustments, including lumbar support, so you can easily find the perfect driving position. The front passenger seat also has power adjustments, which is a nice touch. One of the standout features of the EX-L trim is the dual-zone automatic climate control. This allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures, ensuring everyone stays comfortable. The heated front seats are another welcome addition, especially on those cold mornings. The CR-V is known for its spacious interior, and the EX-L trim is no exception. There's plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The rear seats can also recline, adding to the comfort of rear passengers on long trips. In terms of cargo space, the CR-V is one of the best in its class. With the rear seats up, there's still plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. And when you need even more space, the rear seats fold down easily, creating a large, flat cargo area. The EX-L trim also includes a power tailgate, which makes loading and unloading cargo a breeze. The interior design is clean and modern, with high-quality materials used throughout. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to navigate. Overall, the interior of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a comfortable and inviting space, with plenty of features to make your driving experience more enjoyable.

Technology and Connectivity

Now, let's dive into the tech that the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD brings to the table. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a 7-inch touchscreen display. It's not the biggest or most advanced screen out there, but it's functional and easy to use. The system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car. This means you can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and stream music directly from the touchscreen. The EX-L trim also includes a premium audio system with eight speakers. The sound quality is pretty good, providing clear and balanced audio for your music and podcasts. Other tech features include a rearview camera, which helps with parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. The camera provides a clear image of what's behind the car, making it easier to avoid obstacles. The EX-L trim also includes Honda's LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system. This system uses a camera mounted on the passenger-side mirror to display a live video feed of the blind spot on the touchscreen when you activate the right turn signal. It's a useful feature for avoiding accidents when changing lanes. In terms of connectivity, the CR-V EX-L AWD includes Bluetooth, USB ports, and a 12-volt power outlet. You can easily connect your devices and keep them charged while on the go. Overall, the technology in the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is user-friendly and well-integrated. It might not be the most cutting-edge system on the market, but it provides all the essential features you need for a connected and enjoyable driving experience.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers. Honda Sensing is a standard safety suite on the EX-L trim, which includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems. One of the key features is the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS). This system can detect a potential collision with a vehicle or pedestrian and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact. The Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM) is another valuable safety feature. It uses a camera to detect if the car is drifting out of its lane and can provide steering assistance to help keep the car in its lane. The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the car's speed to maintain that distance. This can be a real stress-reliever on long highway drives. The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) provides gentle steering assistance to help keep the car centered in its lane. It's not a self-driving system, but it can help reduce driver fatigue on long trips. In addition to these advanced safety features, the CR-V EX-L AWD also includes standard safety equipment such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The CR-V has consistently earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which is a testament to its commitment to safety. Overall, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD offers a comprehensive and confidence-inspiring safety package, making it a great choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety.

Fuel Efficiency

Let's talk about fuel efficiency because, let's be honest, nobody wants to spend a fortune at the gas pump. The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD does pretty well in this department. The EPA estimates for the AWD model are 27 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 29 mpg combined. These numbers are quite competitive for a compact SUV with all-wheel drive. The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT) work together to maximize fuel efficiency. The CVT keeps the engine in its optimal range, while the turbocharger provides extra power when needed without sacrificing fuel economy. Of course, your actual fuel economy will vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. If you have a heavy foot or do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, you might not achieve the EPA estimates. However, if you drive conservatively and do a lot of highway driving, you might even exceed them. One thing to keep in mind is that the CR-V uses regular unleaded gasoline, so you don't have to worry about paying extra for premium fuel. Overall, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD offers excellent fuel efficiency for its class. It's a practical and economical choice for daily commuting and long road trips.

Pros and Cons

To wrap things up, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD:

Pros:

• Reliability: Honda has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the CR-V is no exception.
• Spacious Interior: The CR-V offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a great choice for families.
• Comfortable Ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride on most road surfaces.
• Fuel Efficiency: The CR-V gets excellent gas mileage for its class.
• Safety Features: The CR-V comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features.
• All-Wheel Drive: The AWD system provides added traction and stability in various driving conditions.
• Features: Packed with features.

Cons:

• CVT Transmission: Some drivers may find the CVT transmission to be less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission.
• Infotainment System: The 7-inch touchscreen display is functional, but it's not the most advanced system on the market.
• Exterior Styling: Exterior design is subjective.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD? Overall, it's a fantastic compact SUV that offers a compelling blend of reliability, practicality, and value. It's a great choice for families, commuters, and anyone who needs a versatile and dependable vehicle. The EX-L trim adds a touch of luxury and convenience to the already impressive package. While it might not be the most exciting or sporty SUV out there, it excels in the areas that matter most to many drivers: reliability, comfort, fuel efficiency, and safety. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is definitely worth considering. Thanks for joining me on this in-depth review. Happy driving, folks!