Honda Accord and CR-V Expected To Go Hybrid-Only
Honda isn't subtly hinting at its future anymore—it’s laying the groundwork.
According to a report from Automotive News, the Japanese automaker plans to phase out pure internal-combustion engines on both the Accord and the CR-V. Following in the footsteps of the Toyota RAV4 and Camry, Honda's popular volume models are expected to become hybrid-only by the end of the decade.
The move comes as part of Honda's push to roll out 15 next-generation hybrid models across North America by 2030, as it walks back from aggressive short-term EV timelines.
The report indicates that the current gasoline-only Accord will wrap up production around March 2030. When the next-generation redesign arrives late this decade, expected around 2028 or 2029, it will rely on an upgraded iteration of Honda's two-motor hybrid system.
The CR-V is scheduled to follow an identical trajectory. With electrified variants already accounting for the lion's share of Civic, Accord, and CR-V sales growth in 2026, Honda executives haev already pointed to consumer demand as driving the shift.
The hybrid push won't stop with the big-sellers. American Honda product planning executive Gary Robinson noted there is "no technical reason" why smaller entry-level models like the Honda HR-V and Acura ADX couldn't adopt the hybrid hardware currently powering the Civic and CR-V. While Honda hasn't officially greenlit a hybrid HR-V, a move like that would allow the brand to directly challenge the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and Subaru Crosstrek.
Meanwhile, rumors surrounding a return of a boxy utility model refuse to die. A potential second-generation Honda Element revival is rumored to be entering production by mid-2029. Positioned as a rugged, adventure-focused crossover tailored for outdoorsy buyers and small commercial fleets, the speculative model could also arrive as a 2030 model offering.
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I had a 2013 Honda CRV and the seats were HORRIBLE; like sitting on concrete blocks. Even with a 4" foam cushion I couldn't drive more than an hour at a time.
Life long toyota family. End of 2025 in the marjet for a new 2026 SUV. Refused to buy a toyota because of the hybrid turbos and bought another make SUV with a gas V6. Now Honda is doing the same.