Earlier this week, Honda Malaysia announced that the sixth-generation CR-V had been updated for 2026. The SUV remains largely unchanged, with just a few new kit inclusions and, in the case of the range-topping RS, minor interior cosmetic enhancements, but the model line-up has been given an overhaul, with three variants now instead of the four that were introduced when the car was launched here back in December 2023.
The base turbocharged S from before has been dropped, and the petrol E has been replaced by an e:HEV hybrid for the same grade. This makes the e:HEV E, which is priced at RM178,200, the new entry point for the SUV, with the turbocharged V AWD (RM181,900) and e:HEV RS (RM195,900) retaining their place in the range. Incidentally, the arrival of the hybrid E makes it the first time two hybrid variants are available within a single Honda model line-up locally.
The updated RS is now in showrooms, where we caught up with one of them for the photo gallery seen here. The only significant exterior change is with a new exterior colour option called Blazing Red Pearl, and that all CR-V variants now come fitted with Honda Authorised Solar and Security tint film by Ecotint as standard.
Inside, the only cosmetic enhancements are to be found on the RS, and these are minor, consisting of a darker hairline film finish for the dashboard trim as well as an embossed RS logo on the front seat backs. The omission of the S means that all CR-V variants now feature a 9.0-inch Advanced Display Audio system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto going the wireless route.
The other embellishments are tucked away. Google Audio Services is now integrated into the infotainment system, and this offers hands-free Google Assistant and real-time navigation through Google Maps as well as access to a variety of applications via Google Play.
The update also introduces a new Digital Key feature, which allows owners to use their mobile device as a primary key for the car. Additionally, functional remote features integrated into the Honda Connect mobile application now allow window and power tailgate operation to be done remote.
As for driver assistance and safety, Honda Sensing is present, but now features a rear cross traffic alert function, which the automaker calls Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM). Elsewhere, in a move that brings the carmaker into the present, the old LaneWatch side camera system has finally been replaced by Blind Spot Information (BSI), which alerts the driver with an illuminated indicator in the side-mirrors during lane changes.
Other than that, it’s the same car as when introduced, mechanically. The e:HEV RS (and the e:HEV E) is powered by an Intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system that combines the workings of an electric motor and petrol engine, with outputs unchanged from before.
The petrol mill is a 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle four-pot, which acts primarily as a generator, delivering 148 PS (146 hp) at 6,100 rpm and 190 Nm at 4,500 rpm, while the e-motor delivers 184 PS (181 hp, or 135 kW) from 5,000-8,000 rpm and 335 Nm from 0-2,000 rpm.
As for the sole petrol version, the V AWD, it continues to be powered by the familiar L15BE 1.5 litre VTEC turbo four-cylinder, which retains its 193 PS (190 hp) at 6,000 rpm and 243 Nm from 1,700 to 5,000 rpm output figures.
GALLERY: 2026 Honda CR-V e:HEV RS
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
200k for a crv…lol
a VW golf is 180k , camry 220k , harrier 280k . price up because of our weak ringgit, no wait my mistake ringgit has been appreciating a lot lately so are all these car dealers over greedy and making huge profits?
130k for a proton …lol
model Y definitely better
Takes years to gain market share but can be easily lost with the wrong pricing vs today’s competition.
Thank god there’s stiff competition from China.if not, such added kit would allow Honda Malaysia price this CRV at 220k easily, shamelessly!
200k for honda…..boleh tapow lar honda malaysia. Who’s going to buy 10 year old tech when China car are so much value for money.
Why would i buy this if i can get the pretty Jaecoo or the rwd CBU Japan CX60? Ohh, look at that repulsive reflector headlights