Electric Cars

The 2026 Honda CR-V introduces notable technological advancements, building on its already strong market presence. For this model year, all variants now feature a nine-inch touchscreen display as standard. The EX-L trim further enhances the experience with a larger digital instrument cluster. Additionally, wireless smartphone connectivity and charging capabilities are now included across the entire lineup, improving convenience for all drivers. For those opting for all-wheel drive, the CR-V offers improved off-road traction. There is a price difference of $4,480 between the entry-level LX and the EX-L, prompting a closer look into whether the higher-tier non-hybrid model warrants the additional investment.

Considering its various configurations, the Honda CR-V is available in a total of seven trims, though only three are exclusively powered by a gasoline engine. The foundational LX model starts at an appealing price point of $30,920. Moving up, the EX trim is offered from $33,150. Topping the gasoline-only range is the EX-L, priced from $35,400. For those seeking the ultimate CR-V experience with a hybrid powertrain and all available features, the Sport Touring Hybrid begins at $42,250. This pricing structure highlights the various options available to consumers, from basic functionality to a more luxurious and eco-conscious ride.

While both the LX and EX-L trims of the 2026 Honda CR-V share the same engine and fuel efficiency, their interior and exterior features cater to different preferences. All non-hybrid CR-V models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), delivering 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard on both models, achieving an impressive 28 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. Choosing all-wheel drive adds $1,500 to the price and slightly adjusts fuel economy to 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. However, the hybrid CR-V models surpass their gasoline counterparts in performance and efficiency, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor to produce 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. These hybrid variants boast up to 40 mpg combined for front-wheel drive and 37 mpg combined for all-wheel drive. Therefore, despite their identical non-hybrid powertrains, the choice between LX and EX-L ultimately comes down to the desired level of luxury and feature sophistication versus the value offered by the base model.

The 2026 Honda CR-V maintains its competitive edge within the crossover market, further enhanced by its recent technological improvements. The base LX model, while slightly more expensive than some competitors, justifies its cost with a robust suite of standard features, including wireless smartphone connectivity and charging. For those desiring an elevated driving experience, the EX-L trim presents a compelling option, offering premium amenities such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated front seats. The $4,480 price difference between the two models allows buyers to weigh the value of these luxury additions against their budget. Ultimately, whether prioritizing essential technology or indulgent comfort, the CR-V lineup offers choices that promise satisfaction, demonstrating Honda's commitment to delivering both innovation and quality in its vehicles.

Ford is setting its sights on a formidable return to the pinnacle of endurance racing, with plans to launch a proprietary Hypercar program for the 2027 World Endurance Championship. This ambitious endeavor, managed by the newly established Ford Racing division, signals a profound shift in the company's approach to motorsport, aiming to tightly integrate its track achievements with the future development of its road vehicles. The strategy extends beyond mere competition, serving as a critical platform for technological advancement, brand elevation, and global marketing initiatives.

Ford's Bold Return to Endurance Racing: In-House Hypercar Development for 2027

In a significant announcement, Ford has confirmed its entry into the World Endurance Championship's Hypercar category in 2027. This marks a departure from previous strategies, as the automotive giant opts for an entirely in-house program to design, construct, and operate its new Hypercar. The initiative falls under the purview of the recently unveiled Ford Racing division, a successor to Ford Performance, designed to forge stronger links between the brand's racing ventures and its production vehicles.

Will Ford, General Manager of Ford Racing, emphasized the gravity of this undertaking, stating, "This is not a mere promotional exercise." His words highlight the program's strategic importance in shaping Ford's broader performance and electrification goals. This commitment resonates with Ford's global marketing campaign, "Ready Set Ford," the first in over a decade, signaling a comprehensive cultural transformation within the company.

The Hypercar's development will involve a collaborative effort, with ORECA providing the chassis and Venture Engineering offering technical support. However, Ford maintains that the strategic direction, leadership, and day-to-day management of the project will remain firmly within its internal structure. To bolster its expertise, Ford has appointed Dan Sayers, formerly of Red Bull Powertrains, as Program Manager, integrating fresh motorsport talent with Ford's storied racing heritage.

Crucially, the Hypercar will adhere to LMDh regulations, allowing it to compete in both the FIA World Endurance Championship and North America's IMSA series. To facilitate this global racing footprint, Ford Racing will leverage resources across its facilities in Dearborn, Charlotte, and a new dedicated base in the UK. This integrated approach is intended to embed racing innovations directly into Ford's engineering culture, ensuring that lessons learned on the track directly benefit future road car designs. The division's expanding portfolio already includes projects like the Ford Transit SuperVan, which impressively outperformed a Corvette ZR1X at the Nürburgring, showcasing Ford's innovative engineering capabilities.

Ford's decision to undertake an internal Hypercar program represents a daring challenge, positioning it against established endurance racing powerhouses such as Ferrari, Porsche, and Toyota. With less than two years to prepare for its debut in 2027, Ford faces an demanding schedule to develop and validate a competitive vehicle. However, the company views this as a prime opportunity to enhance its global brand identity, utilizing motorsport as both a proving ground for new technologies and a powerful storytelling medium. By consolidating its racing programs, aligning them with broader marketing strategies, and connecting them to consumer-facing performance models, Ford aims to reassert its role as a leader in performance innovation in the evolving landscape of electrified vehicles.

Ford's strategic pivot to an in-house Hypercar program for the 2027 WEC season is a clear declaration of intent. It underscores a belief that success on the racetrack can directly fuel innovation and enhance brand perception in the consumer market. This bold move, while challenging, could redefine Ford's image as a high-performance innovator in an era increasingly focused on electrification and advanced engineering. The tight timeline necessitates relentless dedication and strategic precision, but if successful, this venture promises to yield not only racing accolades but also significant advancements for Ford's future vehicle lineup and a rejuvenated global brand identity.