Hey everyone, let's dive headfirst into the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD! This compact SUV has been a darling of the car world for years, and for good reason. It blends practicality, fuel efficiency, and a touch of upscale comfort that makes it a winner for families and individuals alike. This review will cover everything you need to know about the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if this is the right car for you.

Unpacking the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

First off, let's break down exactly what the 'EX-L AWD' designation means. The 2019 Honda CR-V is a compact crossover, meaning it offers the versatility of an SUV in a more manageable size. The 'EX-L' trim level indicates a step up in features and luxury compared to the base models. You'll find things like leather upholstery, a premium audio system, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The 'AWD' stands for All-Wheel Drive, a significant feature for those living in areas with inclement weather or who just want the added security and better handling that AWD provides. The 2019 model year brought some exciting updates, refining the already successful formula of previous CR-Vs. Honda focused on improving the driving experience, adding more tech, and enhancing the overall refinement of the vehicle. It's a competitive segment, with rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-5, and Nissan Rogue vying for your attention. The CR-V, however, carves out its space by offering a great balance of everything. Its fuel economy is impressive, it's known for its reliability, and it offers a comfortable and spacious interior. The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a great choice. With its blend of practicality, features, and all-weather capability, this trim level is particularly appealing to those who want a well-equipped and versatile vehicle. Understanding the trim levels is crucial when shopping for a CR-V. The EX-L sits near the top of the lineup, providing a premium experience without hitting the highest price point. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more luxurious feel without breaking the bank. The all-wheel-drive system is a key differentiator, providing added confidence and control in various driving conditions. It constantly monitors the wheels and can adjust power delivery to maintain grip. The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD also boasts a sleek and modern design, with a focus on interior space and driver-friendly technology. Its exterior design is a blend of sporty and sophisticated, making it visually appealing to a wide range of buyers. The careful consideration of design elements has helped create a timeless aesthetic that has kept the CR-V competitive in the market.

Performance and Driving Experience of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Alright, let's get behind the wheel. Under the hood of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD, you'll find a peppy 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This little engine packs a punch, producing a healthy 190 horsepower. You might think a small engine in an SUV would feel sluggish, but thanks to the turbocharger, the CR-V feels surprisingly responsive. The acceleration is brisk, and it has enough power for everyday driving, merging onto highways, and even passing slower vehicles. Honda paired this engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVT transmissions are often a point of contention for some drivers, but Honda's CVT is one of the better ones. It's smooth and efficient, helping to maximize fuel economy. Speaking of which, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD shines when it comes to fuel efficiency. You can expect to get around 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, which is excellent for an all-wheel-drive SUV. This means fewer trips to the gas station and more money in your pocket. The ride quality is another highlight. The CR-V offers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. The suspension is well-tuned, striking a good balance between comfort and handling. It doesn't feel overly soft or floaty, which can sometimes be the case with other SUVs. The all-wheel-drive system provides added confidence, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice. It constantly monitors the wheels and adjusts power distribution to prevent slippage and maintain grip. You'll feel more secure and in control, knowing that the vehicle is working to keep you safe. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and park. The CR-V doesn't feel like a large SUV to drive; it's quite nimble and agile. The driving experience is further enhanced by the quiet cabin. Honda has done a great job of minimizing road and wind noise, creating a serene and comfortable environment. Overall, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD offers a well-rounded driving experience. It's fun to drive, fuel-efficient, comfortable, and confident, making it a great choice for daily commutes, weekend trips, and everything in between.

Interior, Technology, and Features of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Let's step inside, shall we? The interior of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a pleasant place to be. The EX-L trim comes with leather upholstery, which adds a touch of luxury and refinement. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The cabin is spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. Legroom and headroom are generous, even for taller individuals. The CR-V is known for its practicality, and the interior reflects this. There's ample storage space throughout the cabin, including a large center console, door pockets, and various cubbies for your phone, keys, and other essentials. The cargo area is also impressive. The CR-V offers a generous amount of cargo space behind the rear seats, and the rear seats fold down easily to create even more room for larger items. The EX-L trim includes a power-adjustable driver's seat, allowing you to find the perfect driving position. You also get heated front seats, which are a welcome feature on cold mornings. In terms of technology, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is well-equipped. It features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. The EX-L trim also includes a premium audio system, providing excellent sound quality. Other features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a sunroof, and a variety of safety features. The Honda Sensing suite of safety features is standard on the EX-L trim. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, all designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind. The interior design is modern and functional, with a focus on user-friendliness. The dashboard is well-laid out, with easy-to-reach controls and clear instrumentation. The overall aesthetic is clean and sophisticated, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. The quality of materials is generally good, with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality plastics. The EX-L trim takes it up a notch with the addition of leather upholstery, further enhancing the premium feel of the cabin. The CR-V's interior is a testament to its practical and versatile nature. It offers a comfortable, well-equipped, and user-friendly environment for both the driver and passengers.

Safety Features of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Safety is paramount, and the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD doesn't disappoint. Honda has consistently prioritized safety, and this is evident in the CR-V's comprehensive suite of safety features. As mentioned earlier, the EX-L trim comes standard with Honda Sensing. This is a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety and prevent collisions. It includes the following:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): This system maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front, automatically adjusting the speed to maintain a safe following distance. This is a great feature for highway driving, as it reduces driver fatigue and helps to prevent rear-end collisions.
• Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): This system helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by gently correcting steering if it detects that you're drifting out of your lane. It provides an extra layer of safety and helps to prevent lane departure accidents.
• Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): This system detects if the vehicle is about to leave the road and provides steering assistance to help you stay on the road. It's a valuable safety feature, especially on winding roads or in situations where driver inattention may occur.
• Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This system helps to prevent or mitigate frontal collisions by automatically applying the brakes if it detects an impending collision. It's a crucial safety feature that can potentially save lives.
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): This system alerts you of a potential collision. Even before the CMBS kicks in, you get visual and audio warnings.

In addition to Honda Sensing, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD also includes a variety of other safety features, such as:

• Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
• Electronic stability control (ESC)
• Multiple airbags
• A rearview camera

The CR-V has consistently received high safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It's a top safety pick in its class, demonstrating Honda's commitment to protecting its customers. The all-wheel-drive system also contributes to safety by providing enhanced traction and stability in adverse weather conditions. The added grip helps to prevent skidding and loss of control, giving you greater peace of mind. The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a safe and reliable vehicle. It's packed with safety features and has a strong safety record, making it a great choice for families and anyone who prioritizes safety on the road.

Pros and Cons of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD

Alright, let's weigh the good and the bad. Here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD:

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent fuel economy for an AWD SUV, saving you money at the pump.
• Spacious Interior: Generous space for passengers and cargo, making it practical for families.
• Comfortable Ride: Well-tuned suspension that provides a comfortable and composed ride.
• Reliability: Honda's reputation for reliability means you can expect years of trouble-free service.
• Standard Safety Features: Honda Sensing suite provides a comprehensive set of safety features.
• User-Friendly Technology: Intuitive infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• All-Wheel Drive: Provides added security and handling in various weather conditions. It provides great traction, which is very helpful during adverse weather like snow or ice.

Cons:

• Infotainment System: Some users may find the infotainment system's interface to be less intuitive than some competitors.
• Turbo Lag: The 1.5-liter turbo engine can exhibit a slight delay in acceleration at times.
• Price: The EX-L trim can be more expensive than some competitors, so it may need to be considered when buying your car.

Conclusion: Is the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD Worth It?

So, after all of that, is the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD a good buy? Absolutely. It offers a winning combination of fuel efficiency, practicality, comfort, and safety. While there are some minor drawbacks, such as a slightly less-than-perfect infotainment system and a bit of turbo lag, the positives far outweigh the negatives. If you're looking for a compact SUV that's perfect for daily commutes, weekend trips, and family adventures, the 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is definitely worth considering. It's a reliable and well-rounded vehicle that's sure to provide years of satisfaction. It's a smart choice for anyone seeking a versatile and capable SUV. Remember to take a test drive to see if it's the right fit for you. The CR-V’s enduring popularity is a testament to its quality and appeal, making it a sound investment for those in the market for a compact SUV. The 2019 Honda CR-V EX-L AWD is a great option in its class.