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 The base turbocharged S from before has been dropped, and the petrol E has been replaced by an e:HEV hybrid for the same grade.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 Elsewhere, in a move that brings the carmaker into the present, the old LaneWatch side camera system has finally been replaced by Blind Spot Information (BSI), which alerts the driver with an illuminated indicator in the side-mirrors during lane changes.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 Compare prices between different insurer providers to save the most on your car insurance renewal compared to other competing services. Many payment method supported and you can pay with instalment using Atome, Grab PayLater or Shopee SPayLater.