Honda CR-V Towing Capacity (by Engine & Year)
TL;DR
Gas CR-V models top out at 1,500 lb of towing across most generations; CR-V Hybrid models are capped at 1,000 lb (2023+) or not rated (2017-2022). Tongue weight is not separately published by Honda for most configurations - use the 10 percent rule of thumb and confirm with your hitch installer.
Honda CR-V towing capacity: what the configuration actually determines
Unlike full-size trucks, the CR-V line does not have a wide spread of towing numbers between trims - the main split is gas versus hybrid powertrain, and to a lesser degree, generation. All figures below assume the vehicle is properly equipped with a factory-approved or Honda-endorsed aftermarket hitch, since Honda does not include a tow package standard on most trims.
Gas models (1.5L turbo, most generations)
From the 2002-2022 generations through the current 2023-2026 generation, gas-powered CR-V models (LX, EX, EX-L, Sport, Sport Touring) are consistently rated at up to 1,500 lb (680 kg) when properly equipped. This figure has stayed flat across multiple redesigns.
Hybrid models
The CR-V Hybrid did not carry an official towing rating for the 2017-2022 generations. Starting with the redesigned 2023 CR-V Hybrid, Honda introduced a 1,000 lb (454 kg) rating for Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid trims.
Older first-generation models
The original 1997-2001 CR-V is commonly cited at a lower 1,000 lb (454 kg) rating, though this earlier figure is harder to verify against an original Honda towing guide and should be treated as approximate for owners of that generation.
Tongue weight
Honda does not prominently publish a separate tongue weight (vertical load) spec for most CR-V configurations in its consumer-facing materials. The general towing industry rule of thumb is 10-15 percent of trailer weight, which would put a fully loaded 1,500 lb tow near 150-225 lb of tongue weight - but confirm the exact figure with your hitch manufacturer's installation instructions and do not exceed your hitch's rated tongue weight.
| Generation / years | Engine and configuration | Max towing (lb / kg) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st gen, 1997-2001 | 2.0L gas, all trims | 1,000 lb / 454 kg (approximate, verify with owner) |
| 2nd-5th gen, 2002-2022 | 2.4L / 1.5L turbo gas, all trims | 1,500 lb / 680 kg with hitch |
| 4th-5th gen Hybrid, 2017-2022 | 2.0L hybrid | Not rated for towing |
| 6th gen, 2023-2026 | 1.5L turbo gas, LX/EX/EX-L/Sport Touring | 1,500 lb / 680 kg with hitch |
| 6th gen, 2023-2026 | 2.0L Sport Hybrid / Sport-L / Sport Touring Hybrid | 1,000 lb / 454 kg with hitch |
Where to confirm your exact vehicle's rating
Because trim, model year, and installed equipment all affect the final number, always confirm your specific vehicle's towing capacity using one of these authoritative sources before hitching a trailer: the driver's door jamb placard, the owner's manual towing section, the tire and loading information label, or Honda's official towing guide available through a Honda dealer.
Summary
| Max towing, gas models (most generations) | 1,500 lb / 680 kg |
|---|---|
| Max towing, 2023-2026 Hybrid | 1,000 lb / 454 kg |
| Towing rating, 2017-2022 Hybrid | Not rated |
| 1st gen (1997-2001) approximate rating | 1,000 lb / 454 kg |
| Tongue weight spec | Not officially published; est. 10-15% of trailer weight |
| Factory tow package | Not standard; aftermarket hitch required |
| Authoritative source for your vehicle | Door jamb placard, owner's manual, Honda towing guide |
Full diagnostics
For the complete step-by-step diagnostic and repair guide, see Honda CR-V: Common Problems, Fault Codes & Repairs.
Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum Honda CR-V towing capacity?
The highest verified figure is 1,500 lb (680 kg), achieved by gas-powered CR-V models across most generations from 2002 through 2026 when equipped with a proper hitch. The CR-V Hybrid is rated lower, at 1,000 lb for 2023-2026 models.
Can a Honda CR-V Hybrid tow a trailer?
The 2023-2026 CR-V Hybrid is rated to tow up to 1,000 lb (454 kg) with a properly installed hitch. Earlier CR-V Hybrid model years, 2017-2022, were not given an official towing rating by Honda and should not be used to tow.
Does the Honda CR-V come with a factory tow package?
No, Honda does not offer a factory tow package as standard equipment on most CR-V trims. Towing requires installing a Honda-approved or compatible aftermarket hitch rated for the vehicle's maximum figure, and you should verify wiring and cooling requirements with a dealer.
What is the Honda CR-V tongue weight limit?
Honda does not widely publish a distinct tongue weight figure in consumer materials for most CR-V configurations. A commonly used estimate is 10-15 percent of the actual trailer weight, but the safest approach is to check your specific hitch's rated tongue weight and your owner's manual before towing.