New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior, Engine, Price – Available in Canada after previously being offered only in the United States, the hybrid version of Honda’s popular CR-V is built to take on key rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson.
But while those crossovers — along with the Ford Escape — are sold as hybrids in a full range of trims, Honda places this one at the top of the lineup. That means the cheapest version of the 2025 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is the EX-L trim tested here that’s nearly $50,000 before tax.
New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Redesign and Update Plan
Exterior and Interior
The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid sports a stylish and squared-off look, with the EX-L riding on 18-inch wheels and the Touring on 19-inch alloys, which look cool but can lead to a harsher ride and cost more to replace. The EX-L lacks the roof rails on the Touring, but both have a standard power sunroof.
The cabin is more functional than fancy, but that’s not a knock against it; everything is straightforward and easy to use. I especially like the honeycomb pattern that hides the air vents, with joysticks to direct them. It’s a subtle touch, but it’s a styling highlight. New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior
New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Specs
The all-new Clarity Plug-In Hybrid only came in a top-line Touring when introduced for 2023; the following year, the slightly cheaper EX-L tester was added. Features in this tester include a nine-inch centre touchscreen, seven-inch digital instrument display, wireless charger, power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory, walk-away door locks, a power tailgate, and wiper de-icer. Moving up to the Touring further adds rain-sensing wipers, a hands-free tailgate, rear camera washer, premium audio, and navigation.
Engine and Performance
The 2.0L four-cylinder engine of the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid powers two electric motors, one of which is used for propulsion and the other for energy regeneration. Depending on driving circumstances, the gas-electric system automatically changes between gasoline, electricity, or both, producing 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior
The engine’s a bit gruff but not unbearable, and the CR-V is peppy and has no trouble keeping up with traffic, including passing at highway speeds. The automatic continuously-variable transmission (CVT) works well. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard, but unlike some hybrids that use a rear-mounted electric motor, the CR-V uses a mechanical connection as gas-only vehicles do. The battery self-charges with regenerative braking, and paddles on the steering wheel can be used to increase or decrease the rate, which in turn slows the CR-V sooner or lets it coast longer.
New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Fuel Economy
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) has officially evaluated the 2026 Clarity Plug-In Hybrid at 6.0 L/100 km in the city, 6.9 on the highway, and 6.4 overall. Over the week I had it, I averaged 6.7 L/100 km. You must use regular-grade gasoline. New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior
It’s in line with its rivals, where the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid matches its 6.4 combined; the Kia Sportage Hybrid is rated at 6.2; and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid comes in at 6.0.
New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Safety Features
At 1,028 L of cargo space with the rear seats up, the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid is about mid-pack with rivals. It’s topped by contenders such as the Toyota RAV4 at 1,059 L, and the Hyundai Tucson at 1,097 L. Those differences aren’t especially significant — for reference, the Civic sedan has 419 L of space in the trunk — but they’re noteworthy for those trying to maximize hauling potential.
Gas-only CR-V models have a dual-height cargo floor, but the hybrid model’s doesn’t move due to the battery’s placement. Even so, the hybrid can handle a lot of stuff, and it’s easy to load with its low liftover and wide tailgate opening. Towing capacity for the hybrid is a maximum of 453 kg (1,000 lb), light among some rivals that can handle twice that. New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior
New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Price and Release Date
The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid only came in the highest Touring trim when it debuted, and adding the EX-L below it was a welcome addition, but these gas-electric versions are still at the top of the lineup. The gas-only CR-V runs from $37,725 to $44,125; while the EX-L Hybrid is $49,325 and the Touring is $51,825.
Among its hybrid rivals, the Hyundai Tucson ranges from $45,149 to $49,149; the Kia Sportage from $40,195 to $45,895; and the Toyota RAV4 from $37,880 to $48,880 (all prices including delivery). Adding the EX-L helped, but offering the Clarity Plug-In Hybrid in an even lower trim might convince more people to go the gas-electric route in this popular crossover. New 2026 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid Interior