Can you tell me which one would have the least maintenance cost concerning the engine and transmission. They both have the ecvt transmission. Is one better than the other? I am concerned that the Honda does not have a spare tire but it has a bigger cargo space than the toyota hybrid. The toyota has a spare tire but I like the look of the honda. I don't know why the head rest on the toyota is tilted forward where it is pushing against the back of the head. I don't remember if the Honda has the same issue or not. I am torn between the two cars. Maybe you can help me decide. Thanks for your help!
Roy
I usually recommend Toyota Hybrids over any other hybrid, even Honda. Toyota has 20 years of time tested hybrid technology. Prius technology has made it across their entire fleet.
However Honda has a compelling hybrid technology. It is their third attempt at creating a hybrid system, and it is significantly different than their Honda predecessors, and even Toyota. Honda predecessors weren’t necessarily bad in terms of quality. They just weren’t as popular as Toyota’s technology.
Current generation Honda Hybrids are basically an EV, but get its electricity from gasoline from 0-45mph. Above 45mph, the ICE takes over. Very fascinating. The electric motor is more efficient below 45mph and the ICE more efficient above 45mph.
Technically, there is no transmission. It’s just a clutch the engages and disengages the ICE engine from driving the car or just generating electricity.
If it is was any other company I probably wouldn’t give it a second look, but it is Honda, a company known for quality and longevity.
Toyota Hybrids usually split the duty of propelling the vehicle between the ICE and the electric motor across all speed ranges. Their eCVT transmission is where the magic happens, where either the electric motor, ICE, or both, are driving the car. It is a planetary gear set.
Comfort and interior design-wise, the CRV hits it out of the park. It just feels better.
If you want tried and true, go with a Toyota Hybrid. They have nearly 25 years of time tested hybrid technology.
If you are willing to take a chance, go with the Honda Hybrid. So far, they seem to be fairing well, but this technology is only a few years old, so we don’t really know. It’s Honda though, a company with a better reputation than most others.
Heck, drive them both and see what you like better.
