2020 Honda CR-V — Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios

Transmission gear ratios

The 2020 Honda CR-V is exclusively equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) across all its trim levels and engine options. This advanced transmission offers a wide range of ratios, effectively mimicking multiple "gears" to optimize both fuel efficiency and power delivery.

Available axle ratios

The 2020 Honda CR-V offers a single axle ratio for all configurations, simplifying parts and maintenance. This ratio is carefully chosen to complement the CVT and the available engine(s), balancing performance with fuel economy.

How to identify your axle ratio

For the 2020 Honda CR-V, identifying the "axle ratio" in the traditional sense isn't applicable. Unlike vehicles with separate transmissions and rear differentials, the CR-V utilizes a transaxle design where the final drive ratio is integrated into the transmission unit itself. Therefore, there isn't an external axle tag or a specific RPO code on a door-jamb sticker for the rear axle alone.

If you need to confirm drivetrain specifications, your best resources are:

• Owner's Manual: This will contain detailed specifications for your specific vehicle.
• VIN Decoder: Online VIN decoders can often provide a comprehensive breakdown of your vehicle's original equipment.
• Honda Dealership: A Honda service department can look up your vehicle's build sheet using the VIN.

Towing vs MPG impact

While the 2020 Honda CR-V uses a CVT and a single final drive ratio, the general principles of gear ratios and their impact on towing and fuel economy remain relevant.

In vehicles with conventional geared transmissions and multiple axle ratios, a numerically lower axle ratio (e.g., 3.08) results in lower engine RPMs at cruising speeds, leading to better fuel economy. However, it also means less mechanical advantage for towing or accelerating heavy loads. Conversely, a numerically higher axle ratio (e.g., 4.10) provides more torque to the wheels, improving towing capacity and acceleration, but at the expense of higher engine RPMs at cruising speed and thus, reduced fuel efficiency.

The CR-V's CVT, with its continuously variable nature, is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient power band across a wide range of vehicle speeds, effectively optimizing for both fuel economy and power delivery as needed. The single final drive ratio is chosen as a balance for its intended use as a compact SUV, prioritizing everyday driving and reasonable light-duty towing capabilities.

Common issues

For the 2020 Honda CR-V's drivetrain, common issues are generally associated with the continuously variable transmission itself rather than specific axle components, as the final drive is integrated. However, some general considerations for any drivetrain include:

• CVT Longevity: While modern CVTs are significantly more reliable than earlier designs, they can be sensitive to proper fluid maintenance. Following Honda's recommended service intervals for transmission fluid changes is crucial for long-term reliability.
• AWD System: For AWD models, the rear differential and power transfer unit should have their fluid checked and changed according to the manufacturer's schedule to prevent wear.
• Bearing Wear: Over very high mileage, wheel bearings or internal differential bearings could develop wear, manifesting as a hum or whine that increases with speed. This is not exclusive to CR-Vs but a general automotive consideration.

No widespread or notoriously common high-incidence issues related to the integrated final drive or rear axle of the 2020 Honda CR-V have been reported at this time.

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