The Honda CR-V has become the best-selling individual vehicle model in the United States so far this year, helped by inventory challenges affecting the Toyota RAV4 and Ford F-150. However, a new JD Power study finds that while the CR-V remains a strong long-term choice, several competing compact SUVs leave a stronger impression during the first months of ownership.
Toyota RAV4 Tops JD Power’s Compact SUV Rankings
In the 2026 U.S. Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, JD Power ranked the Toyota RAV4 as the most satisfying compact crossover for new owners.
The study is based on surveys completed by thousands of owners during the first 90 days of ownership. Participants evaluated nearly every aspect of their vehicles, including design, comfort, performance, quality, driving appeal, and technology.
The Toyota RAV4 led the highly competitive compact crossover segment, followed by the Nissan Rogue and Kia Sportage. According to the report, owners responded positively to the RAV4’s newly standard hybrid powertrain and updated design for the 2026 model year.
Honda CR-V Misses the Top Three
The Honda CR-V did not finish among the top three vehicles in the compact crossover category, although the study does not indicate that it performed poorly. Instead, competing models generated stronger owner satisfaction during the first three months of ownership.
Among mass-market automakers, Honda ranked 12th in the study, immediately behind Toyota. Honda did not earn a category win or runner-up finish, while Toyota recorded two category victories and three runner-up finishes.
Long-Term Ownership Remains a Key Strength
The APEAL Study emphasizes the emotional side of vehicle ownership, including styling, technology, and driving enjoyment. The report notes that the Honda CR-V has traditionally prioritized practicality over standout performance or bold design, and the current model continues that approach.
Its standard 190-horsepower engine focuses on efficiency rather than outright performance, while both the exterior and interior feature a conservative design compared with some competitors, including the Kia Sportage.
Reliability and Value Continue to Stand Out
Although it may not generate the same early excitement as some rivals, the Honda CR-V continues to perform well in areas that matter over the long term.
According to the report, RepairPal ranks the CR-V second among 26 compact SUVs for reliability. The vehicle also retains a significant portion of its original value after five years of ownership. In hybrid form, it delivers fuel economy of up to 40 mpg combined.
While the JD Power study highlights stronger initial owner satisfaction for several competitors, the Honda CR-V continues to distinguish itself through long-term reliability, value retention, and fuel efficiency, making it a competitive choice in the compact SUV segment.
