Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into a vehicle that’s been a total game-changer in the SUV market: the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD. If you're in the market for a reliable, comfortable, and surprisingly capable crossover, you've landed in the right spot, guys. This isn't just any SUV; it's the top-tier trim of Honda's beloved CR-V, and let me tell you, it packs a punch. We're going to break down everything from its killer features to how it handles on the road, so buckle up!

    Performance and Powertrain: More Than Just Looks

    When we talk about the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD, the first thing you'll notice is how it blends everyday usability with a bit of adventurous spirit. Under the hood, this bad boy comes standard with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Now, don't let the size fool you; this engine is good for about 190 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that's been tuned to feel surprisingly responsive. What's really awesome about the Touring AWD is, of course, the all-wheel-drive system. Honda's Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System is designed to intelligently distribute power between the front and rear wheels, enhancing traction and stability, especially when the weather gets dicey or you decide to venture off the beaten path a little.

    This AWD system is a significant upgrade for anyone living in areas with snow, ice, or heavy rain. It seamlessly engages when it detects a loss of traction, giving you that extra confidence behind the wheel. Fuel economy is also a strong suit for the CR-V Touring AWD. You're looking at an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. That’s pretty darn impressive for an AWD SUV that also offers a spacious interior and plenty of cargo room. The ride quality is generally smooth and composed, making it a fantastic daily driver. It absorbs road imperfections well, and the cabin remains relatively quiet even at highway speeds. While it's not exactly a sports car – and that's perfectly fine for an SUV like this – the acceleration is more than adequate for merging onto highways and passing slower vehicles. The steering is light and precise, making maneuvering in tight parking lots a breeze. For those who might need to tow a small trailer or recreational equipment, the CR-V has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, which is on par with most compact SUVs in its class.

    Interior Comfort and Tech Features: Living the High Life

    Stepping inside the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD is where you really feel like you're getting your money's worth, guys. Honda really stepped up its game with the Touring trim, loading it with premium features that make every drive a pleasure. The first thing you'll notice is the upscale materials. Unlike some competitors that can feel a bit plasticky, the CR-V Touring boasts soft-touch surfaces, leather-trimmed seats, and stylish accents that give it a genuinely premium feel. The driver's seat is power-adjustable with memory settings, which is super convenient if you share your car or just like to dial in your perfect position. The front passenger also gets a power-adjustable seat.

    Comfort is king here. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer journeys. Rear-seat passengers will appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, making the CR-V a great choice for families or for carpooling. Plus, the rear seats can recline, adding another layer of comfort for those long road trips. Honda also did a bang-up job with the storage solutions. There are plenty of cubbies, cupholders, and door pockets scattered throughout the cabin. The center console is particularly versatile, with a deep storage bin that can swallow up quite a bit. And let's not forget the cargo space! The CR-V has always been a leader in this department, and the 2021 model is no exception. With the rear seats up, you get a healthy 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to a massive 75.8 cubic feet when you fold the rear seats down. That's enough room for grocery runs, luggage for a family vacation, or even hauling larger items like furniture or bikes.

    Now, onto the tech. The Touring trim comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is a huge plus, letting you seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. The system is generally user-friendly, though some might find the on-screen buttons a bit small. You also get a premium audio system, a Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System (which is great if you prefer built-in GPS), SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth streaming audio. For charging your devices, there are multiple USB ports throughout the cabin, and the Touring model even includes a wireless charging pad.

    Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

    One of the biggest reasons people trust Honda, and especially the CR-V, is its commitment to safety. The 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD is absolutely loaded with advanced safety and driver-assist features, thanks to the Honda Sensing suite, which comes standard on all trims. This is a huge deal, guys, because it means even the base model CR-V is well-equipped to keep you and your passengers safe. For the Touring trim, you get all the goodies from lower trims plus a few extra perks. Standard features include:

    • Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): This system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential frontal collision.

    • Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): RDM helps keep the vehicle in its lane and can provide steering assistance if you unintentionally drift off the road.

    • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC allows you to maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, making highway driving much less stressful.

    • Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS helps center the vehicle in its lane, providing subtle steering input to keep you on track.

    On top of the Honda Sensing suite, the Touring AWD also comes with a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera, which gives you different viewing options for backing up. You also get Blind Spot Information System (BSI) with Cross Traffic Monitor. BSI alerts you if it detects a vehicle in your blind spot, and the Cross Traffic Monitor warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing out of a parking spot. Parking sensors (front and rear) are also standard, making it easier to avoid bumps and scrapes in tight spaces. The CR-V has a proven track record of excellent safety ratings from organizations like the NHTSA and IIHS, and the extensive list of standard and available safety features on the 2021 Touring AWD further solidifies its reputation as a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. You can feel confident knowing that Honda has your back with all these advanced technologies working to protect you.

    Driving Dynamics and Handling: Smooth and Stable

    Let's talk about how the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD actually feels to drive, because that's where the rubber meets the road, right? Honda has consistently tuned the CR-V for a comfortable and predictable driving experience, and the 2021 model is no exception. The ride quality is a standout feature. Thanks to a well-tuned suspension system, the CR-V glides over most road imperfections, from minor cracks to larger bumps, without jarring the occupants. This makes it an excellent companion for daily commutes, long road trips, or just navigating the urban jungle.

    When it comes to handling, the CR-V Touring AWD offers a balanced approach. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight city streets and parking lots. While it's not designed for sporty driving, the body roll in corners is well-controlled, giving you a sense of stability and confidence, especially when combined with the all-wheel-drive system. The AWD system itself is pretty slick. It's designed to proactively send power to the rear wheels when needed, which helps maintain traction and stability in slippery conditions or during spirited driving. It's not an off-road beast, but for typical inclement weather or navigating unpaved roads, it provides that extra layer of security.

    Braking is also confident and reassuring. The pedal feel is firm and predictable, allowing for smooth stops in traffic. Visibility is another area where the CR-V shines. The large windows, relatively thin A-pillars, and good seating position provide an excellent panoramic view of your surroundings, which is crucial for safety and driver confidence. The combination of the comfortable ride, predictable handling, and the added security of the AWD system makes the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD a truly pleasant vehicle to drive day in and day out. It strikes a great balance between comfort, practicality, and a touch of capability that appeals to a wide range of drivers. You really get the sense that Honda engineers put a lot of thought into making this SUV as user-friendly and confidence-inspiring as possible.

    The Verdict: Is the 2021 CR-V Touring AWD Right for You?

    So, after all that, is the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD the SUV for you? Honestly, it's tough to go wrong with this one, guys. It consistently ranks as one of the best compact SUVs on the market for a reason. It nails the fundamentals: it's incredibly practical with tons of cargo and passenger space, it’s fuel-efficient for its class, and it comes packed with a suite of advanced safety features as standard. The Touring trim takes all of that and adds a layer of premium comfort and technology that makes it feel genuinely upscale.

    If you're looking for an SUV that can handle your daily commute, weekend adventures, family duties, and grocery runs with ease, the CR-V Touring AWD is a fantastic option. The all-wheel-drive system adds a significant peace of mind for those in variable climates, and the comfortable interior makes even the longest drives enjoyable. While it might not offer the most thrilling driving experience or the most rugged off-road capability, it excels in being a well-rounded, reliable, and comfortable vehicle that's easy to live with. For a versatile and dependable SUV that offers great value, the 2021 Honda CR-V Touring AWD is definitely worth a serious look. You're getting a lot of car for your money with this one, and it’s built with Honda’s legendary reliability, so you know it’s going to last.