Brad Deery Honda Official Blog
Do I need the Hybrid powertrain or the 1.5L Turbo on the 2026 Honda CR-V for everyday driving in West Burlington, IA?
By Brad Deery Honda | Posted in Honda CR-V on Thursday, October 30th, 2025 at 8:08 pm
Brad Deery Honda – Do I need the Hybrid powertrain or the 1.5L Turbo on the 2026 Honda CR-V for everyday driving in West Burlington, IA?
At Brad Deery Honda in West Burlington, IA, one question comes up more than any other when shoppers test-drive the 2026 Honda CR-V: Should I choose the Hybrid powertrain or the 1.5L turbocharged engine? Both deliver impressive capability for Southeast Iowa’s mix of city streets, rural highways, and four-season weather, but the right answer depends on how and where you drive. Below, our team breaks down real-world differences so you can feel confident choosing your CR-V.
The 2026 CR-V lineup gives you two distinct personalities. The 1.5L turbocharged engine is standard on LX, EX, and EX-L trims, delivering smooth, refined power that’s easy to live with every day. Step up to the Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, or Sport Touring Hybrid, and you get a highly responsive, 204-horsepower hybrid powertrain that’s engineered for strong acceleration and excellent efficiency. Hybrid trims are rated up to 40 city/34 highway mpg, so frequent commuters around Burlington, Iowa City, and Coralville can see meaningful gains at the pump.
If your weekly routine includes quick trips across West Agency Road, longer stretches along US-34, and family outings across Des Moines County, consider how each powertrain fits your rhythm. The 1.5L turbo shines for steady highway cruising and relaxed daily driving, with a familiar feel that many long-time Honda owners appreciate. The Hybrid amplifies low-speed response around town and rewards stop-and-go routes with outstanding efficiency, all while keeping things quiet and composed.
To make the decision even easier, here’s a simple guide based on what matters most to you.
- Mostly city and suburban miles: The hybrid’s electric assist optimizes efficiency and provides smooth, responsive takeoff for errands and commuting around West Burlington.
- Prefer confident response: With a 204-horsepower powertrain, hybrid trims feel lively when merging onto US-61 or passing on two-lane roads.
- Want AWD standard: TrailSport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid include Real Time AWD™; it’s also available across other trims.
- Value quiet cruising: Hybrid operation often delivers an EV-like calm in low-speed driving and residential neighborhoods.
- Long highway drives: The 1.5L turbo is a smooth, dependable companion for extended trips across Iowa and Illinois.
- Straightforward ownership: Some shoppers prefer a traditional gas engine with proven Honda reliability and easy maintenance.
- Trim simplicity: If you like the features and feel of LX, EX, or EX-L, the 1.5L turbo fits right in.
- Balanced daily use: The turbo’s refined character and strong midrange power make it a great all-around choice.
No matter which powertrain you prefer, every 2026 CR-V delivers modern connectivity and driver confidence. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ compatibility are standard on all trims, making it simple to bring your apps along without cords. A 9-inch color touch-screen and a wireless phone charger are also standard across the lineup. Honda Sensing® is standard, too, helping with everyday peace of mind on crowded local roads or late-night drives home from the ballfields.
Shoppers considering premium tech will appreciate that Google built-in* is standard on the Sport Touring Hybrid, integrating Google Maps, Google Assistant, and more right into the vehicle. Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock® is standard on EX and above, adding everyday convenience. Inside, thoughtful details like available leather-trimmed seats (EX-L, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid) and a Bose premium sound system (Sport Touring Hybrid) create a refined cabin that’s easy to enjoy on any route.
Traction and weather are big parts of the ownership experience in Southeast Iowa. Real Time AWD™ is available on all trims and standard on TrailSport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid. If your weekends include gravel roads, state park trailheads, or winter commutes before the plows roll, AWD adds surefooted confidence. The TrailSport Hybrid also brings rugged styling and capability cues, and looks fantastic in colors like Ash Green Metallic or Canyon River Blue Metallic.
Cargo and versatility are CR-V hallmarks regardless of engine choice. You’ll find a wide, usable cargo area and flexible seating that makes school runs, home projects, and road trips easier. From a power tailgate with programmable height (standard on EX-L, TrailSport Hybrid, and Sport-L Hybrid) to a hands-free access power tailgate on Sport Touring Hybrid, loading up after a Target run or farmers market visit is simple and convenient.
The best way to decide is to drive both back-to-back. Our team can set up a quick loop that mirrors your daily routes—so you can feel how the 1.5L turbo and Hybrid respond pulling away from lights, merging, and cruising through West Burlington. We’ll help you compare trims, from the EX-L’s comfort to the TrailSport Hybrid’s adventurous flair to the Sport Touring Hybrid’s premium tech.
Visit Brad Deery Honda at 501 West Agency Road to experience the 2026 Honda CR-V in person. Our product specialists are here to answer questions, walk you through features, and get you into the exact CR-V that fits your life in West Burlington, IA.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Which 2026 Honda CR-V trims have the Hybrid powertrain?
Sport Hybrid, Sport-L Hybrid, TrailSport Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid all come with a highly responsive, 204-horsepower hybrid powertrain.
Which trims include the 1.5L turbocharged engine?
The 1.5L turbocharged engine is standard on LX, EX, and EX-L.
Is Real Time AWD™ worth choosing for Iowa weather?
If you regularly drive in snow, rain, or on gravel, Real Time AWD™ adds confidence and stability. It is standard on TrailSport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid and available on other trims.
Do I need a smartphone if a trim has Google built-in*?
Google built-in* on Sport Touring Hybrid integrates Google apps directly in the vehicle. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and wireless Android Auto™ compatibility are also standard on all trims, so you can choose the experience you prefer.
Do Hybrid and 1.5L Turbo models offer similar cargo flexibility?
Yes. Every 2026 CR-V delivers a spacious cargo area with easy-loading design and smart utility features, making daily life simple, whether you choose gasoline or hybrid.
