honda cr v awd ex l is this the best trimIn this video, I take a closer look at the 2026 Honda CR-V AWD EX-L to determine if it's the best trim available for this popular SUV. The Honda CR-V has long been a staple in the SUV market, known for its reliability and versatility, and the EX-L trim offers a range of features that make it an attractive option for those looking for a new car. With its advanced all-wheel-drive system and luxurious interior, the CR-V EX-L is a strong contender if you're in the market for a new SUV. Whether you're looking for a Honda hybrid or a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle, this video will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision. With its comprehensive overview of the CR-V's features and capabilities, this new car review is essential viewing for anyone considering purchasing a Honda SUV!AdvertisementAdvertisementDrive Culture is detailed car review YouTube channel hosted by the ultimate car enthusiast, Jonathon Rivers. Who is Jonathon Rivers? Well, he's a 15-year-plus auto industry veteran, who was born and raised in the Motor City!He lived several years in Japan, speaks and reads Japanese, and now works for American Honda Motor. (Although this channel is his own & not affiliated) He's owned several fun cars including an Evo IV, multiple Civic Si, Focus RS, and most recently the Integra Type S (which he led planning for Acura)! He's also been lucky enough to drive just about every key new product in the market from compact cars to SUVs and EVs as well as super cars!If that isn't enough to prove his "car guy" status, Jonathon has also been featured in Motor Trend, Car and Driver, AutoBlog, Jay Leno's Garage, Raiti's Rides and the SavageGeese channels! He's on Instagram here and Facebook here.The TTAC Creators Series tells stories and amplifies creators from all corners of the car world, including culture, dealerships, collections, modified builds and more.AdvertisementAdvertisementA transcript, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.[Image: YouTube Screenshot]Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.SummaryThe transcript is a comprehensive review of the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD, with the reviewer arguing that the EX-L is the "sweet spot" in the lineup because it balances price, features, comfort, and technology without reaching the cost of the top hybrid trims. OverviewThe 2026 CR-V is now in its sixth generation, with the model tracing its roots back to 1997.It remains Honda's best-selling vehicle.Buyers can choose between a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine or a hybrid powertrain.The review focuses on the mid-level EX-L trim equipped with all-wheel drive. AdvertisementAdvertisementPricingThe reviewer positions the EX-L as the value leader in the lineup.Base front-wheel-drive LX starts at just under $31,000.Fully loaded Sport Touring Hybrid approaches $43,000.The EX-L starts around $35,400.The reviewed vehicle includes:AWD (+$1,500)Platinum White Pearl paint (+$455)Destination charges ($1,450)Total MSRP comes to approximately $38,800, remaining below $40,000-well under the average new vehicle transaction price. ExteriorThe reviewer praises the CR-V's mature styling, calling it the best-looking generation yet.Highlights include:Platinum White Pearl paint.LED headlights.Large black grille with chrome accent.Front and rear parking sensors.Dark gray 18-inch wheels (new for 2026).235/60R18 all-season tires.Chrome window trim.Power moonroof.Smart entry on both front doors.Distinctive vertical LED taillights.Powered liftgate.Integrated rear camera and parking sensors. AdvertisementAdvertisementInteriorThe cabin receives high marks for quality and practicality.Key features include:Soft-touch dashboard materials.Leather-wrapped steering wheel.Honeycomb metal dash trim.Physical climate-control buttons.Dual-zone climate control.Heated front seats.Wireless phone charger.Multiple USB-C ports.Large center console and storage areas.Memory driver's seat.Leather upholstery in gray or black.Power front seats.Power moonroof. TechnologyHonda updates several features for 2026:New 10.2-inch fully digital instrument cluster replaces the previous 7-inch display.Updated 9-inch touchscreen with revised software.Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.Eight-speaker, 320-watt audio system on the EX-L.Bose premium audio and Google Built-In remain exclusive to higher trims. AdvertisementAdvertisementRear seat and cargoThe CR-V continues to emphasize family-friendly packaging.Rear-seat advantages include:Comfortable seating for three adults.Nearly flat floor.Rear air vents.Two additional USB-C charging ports.Fold-down center armrest with cupholders.Easy-access child-seat anchors.Generous legroom.Cargo highlights:39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row.60/40 split-folding rear seats.Powered tailgate.Adjustable liftgate height.Full-size spare tire beneath the cargo floor. PowertrainThe reviewed model uses Honda's familiar turbocharged engine:1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder.190 horsepower.179 lb-ft of torque.Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).Available in front- or all-wheel drive.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe reviewer notes that hybrid models provide stronger acceleration and better fuel economy but cost several thousand dollars more. Driving impressionsThe CR-V is characterized as comfortable, quiet, and easy to live with.Ride and comfortExcellent visibility thanks to thin A-pillars.Very low road and wind noise.Comfortable suspension that absorbs potholes and railroad crossings without upsetting the chassis.Smooth ride quality makes it an excellent daily driver. PerformanceDrive modes include Snow, Econ, and Normal.An "S" transmission mode sharpens throttle response.Although the CVT simulates gear changes under heavy acceleration, the reviewer notes it still behaves like a CVT.Acceleration isn't especially quick but is adequate once the turbo engine reaches the middle of its power band.The reviewer recommends maintaining 3,000–4,000 rpm for the best responsiveness. AdvertisementAdvertisementHandlingDespite being a compact SUV, the CR-V:Feels surprisingly nimble.Handles more like a Honda Civic than a traditional crossover.Has confident braking.Delivers composed chassis dynamics on winding roads. Final verdictThe reviewer concludes that the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is likely the best value in the lineup because it delivers nearly all of the comfort, technology, and convenience features buyers want while staying under $40,000. Buyers who prioritize fuel economy and stronger performance may still prefer the hybrid trims, but for most shoppers, the EX-L offers the best balance of price, equipment, refinement, and everyday usability.