Last year, Honda introduced the new CR-V Hybrid to the European market. Nearly a year later, the hybrid SUV has finally arrived in America as part of the 2020 CR-V range, which also includes updated styling and additional new features. Due to enter production at Honda's US plant in Greensburg, Indiana, the CR-V Hybrid will be the third electrified Honda available in America, joining the Accord Hybrid and Insight.

The CR-V Hybrid shares the same hybrid powertrain as the Accord Hybrid, combining two electric motors with a 2.0-liter, 16-valve Atkinson cycle engine with greater than 40 percent thermal efficiency - the highest for any mass-produced Honda engine. It operates without the need for a conventional automatic transmission, delivering smooth and seamless power similar to a pure electric vehicle.

In total, this hybrid system generates 212 horsepower, up from 190 hp in the CR-V. EPA fuel economy ratings will be released at a later date, but Honda estimates a 50 percent increase in the EPA city fuel economy rating compared to the regular CR-V. That would mean the CR-V Hybrid should deliver around 45 mpg during city driving. All-wheel-drive comes as standard thanks to an electronic clutch that sends power to the rear wheels when traction is low.

For the 2020 model year, all-non hybrid CR-V models are powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine good for 190 horsepower sent through a CVT transmission to either the front or all four wheels. The exterior has also been updated with broad openings for the fog lights integrated into the bumper giving the 2020 CR-V a more aggressive look, and a more pronounced chrome grille. CR-V EX, EX-L and Touring trims get round LED fog lights, while CR-V Hybrid models in the same trims get distinctive bar-type fog lights with five LEDs.

CR-V Hybrid models are distinguished with special badging, a blue Honda logo in the center of the grille, and a unique rear bumper. All trims also feature new dark-tinted taillights and chrome treatment below the rear glass. The CR-V Hybrid also has a hidden tailpipe, while non-hybrid CR-V Touring trims get new chrome exhaust finishers. All CR-V EX and EX-L trims, including Hybrid, ride on new 18-inch wheels finished in dark gray, while Touring trims get larger 19-inch wheels. Three new exterior colors are available for 2020: Sonic Gray Pearl and Radiant Red Metallic on standard and Hybrid models. A new Aegean Blue Metallic finish is available exclusively on non-hybrid models.

Inside, the new CR-V Hybrid features unique interior trim with a push-button gear selector flanked by three switches for Econ, Sport or EV mode. Econ mode alters throttle inputs to optimize fuel efficiency, while Sport enhances throttle response and engine sound.

All 2020 Honda CR-V models and trims also get a redesigned center console that's easier to use. Available tech includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a navigation system, remote engine start, dual-zone climate control, an electronic parking brake, rear USB charging ports, front passenger seat with 4-way power adjustment, driver's seat with 8-way power adjustment and 4-way power lumbar support, and heated front seats.

As standard, all Honda CR-Vs now come with the Honda Sensing driver assist package that includes automatic braking with forward collision warning and pedestrian sensing, road departure and lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist.

Sales of the 2020 CR-V will begin this fall, before the -new CR-V Hybrid arrives in early 2020. Pricing details will be revealed closer to the sale date.