29 MPG combined isn’t going to set any fuel economy records, but it’s a perfectly acceptable figure for the 2017 Honda CR-V AWD with the 1.5L turbocharged engine. This generation of CR-V cemented its place as the go-to choice for families and empty-nesters alike who value reliability, practicality, and all-weather capability. Efficiency is a factor, no doubt, but it’s balanced with the understanding that they’re driving a small SUV with the option of all-wheel drive, a trade-off these buyers willingly accept and rarely regret.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 CR-V AWD 1.5L come in at 27 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city figure accurately reflects the stop-and-go driving that this CR-V often encounters. Honda’s engineering allows the turbocharged engine, paired with the continuously variable transmission (CVT), to maintain this level of efficiency during low-speed, frequent-start driving conditions. The highway MPG is where the CR-V shines, making it a comfortable and relatively economical choice for longer road trips. The CVT does its best work at consistent speeds, keeping the engine at its optimal RPM for maximum efficiency. The turbocharger doesn’t need to work as hard at cruising speed, further aiding fuel conservation.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Honda CR-V AWD 1.5L at $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Individual fuel expenses will vary depending on driving habits, gasoline prices in your area, and the actual miles driven, but the $1,500 provides a good benchmark for potential owners. It’s a helpful number to remember when comparing the CR-V’s running costs against other vehicles in its class, and you can use it as a starting point to estimate your own specific fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can fluctuate based on several factors. Driving style is very impactful. Someone who accelerates quickly will always see lower numbers than someone who drives conservatively. The type of driving is also a major factor. Driving on steep hills or hauling cargo often will impact fuel efficiency. Properly maintaining your CR-V, with regular tire inflation and timely oil changes, plays a critical role in achieving optimal MPG. Most owners report figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions, so it’s always smart to set realistic expectations.

How it compares

In the compact SUV segment, the 2017 CR-V certainly holds its own when it comes to fuel economy. For example, the 2017 Toyota RAV4 AWD boasts a slightly lower 25 MPG combined. The difference may seem small on paper, but it adds up over time. A comparable 2017 Nissan Rogue AWD, especially the models *without* the hybrid powertrain, returns around 28 MPG combined, putting it very close to the CR-V. The Mazda CX-5 with AWD from the same year also hovers around 26 MPG combined. Potential buyers who value fuel economy should also consider that the all Honda fuel economy data shows models achieving fuel efficiencies.

The importance of these comparisons depends on the buyer’s priorities. A person focused on squeezing every last mile from a gallon might lean toward the CR-V for its slight edge, but someone prioritizing other factors like styling or interior features might find the marginal efficiency gains insufficient to sway their decision, and comparing the CR V MPG across all years helps highlight the advances of this model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 1.5L turbo engine provides adequate power, but excessive acceleration forces the turbocharger to work harder, significantly decreasing fuel economy. Gradual acceleration, especially from a stop, will help conserve fuel and maintain the MPG closer to the EPA estimates.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars, including the CR-V, are designed to restart easily and efficiently, negating concerns about excessive wear and tear on the starter motor.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control on long highway drives helps maintain a constant speed, eliminating unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. A steady speed maximizes fuel efficiency, especially with the CVT transmission.

Reduce cargo weight whenever possible. Carrying unnecessary weight in your CR-V puts extra strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need for your daily driving and only carry items when absolutely necessary.