Companies like Stellantis, GM and Audi may be calling it quits on hydrogen fuel cell cars, but Honda is firm on its stance, continuing to develop the technology further with limited-production models. The Honda CR-V e:FCEV is its latest attempt in this regard, combining hydrogen fuel cell and plug-in technologies for more usability.
During our visit to the 2025 Japan Mobility Show recently, we saw the Honda CR-V e:FCEV in person and took some time understanding it in depth. Here’s what we think about the hydrogen plug-in hybrid FCEV, which is available for lease in California.
Exterior
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV distinguishes itself from the gas and hybrid variants through subtle changes. Honda has redesigned the entire front section ahead of the A-pillars with an upright grille, longer hood, and a new front bumper that gives the SUV a cleaner look suited to its zero-emission identity.
Exclusive 18-inch ten-spoke black alloy wheels, a unique liftgate, and a new rear fascia add distinction while maintaining the CR-V’s familiar profile. Aerodynamic efficiency has been enhanced through a full under-floor cover and a front spoiler to reduce drag and extend range.
Dimensions are identical to the standard CR-V. Honda also increased rear rigidity and re-tuned the suspension to maintain the same ride comfort while accommodating hydrogen storage components.
Our experience with the Honda CR-V e:FCEV
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV, the hydrogen fuel cell version of the sixth-generation CR-V, looks almost unrecognizable from a distance. Honda’s decision to adapt the existing design instead of creating an entirely new exterior likely helped reduce development time and cost.
The e:FCEV features a unique front fascia that appears sharper, cleaner, and more sophisticated than the regular model. Its redesigned grille and distinct bumper give it a polished, upscale look while maintaining the familiar CR-V proportions. The subtle blue accents and clean surfacing also reinforce its zero-emission identity.
At about three inches longer than the CR-V Hybrid, the e:FCEV doesn’t appear noticeably larger in person. During our time with it at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, its size and stance felt almost identical to the hybrid model.
Interior
Inside, the Honda CR-V e:FCEV retains the horizontal layout of the sixth-generation CR-V. Honda offers the plug-in hybrid FCEV exclusively in the Touring trim, leaving little to be desired in terms of features.
The company includes a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 9-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system, a wireless smartphone charger, heated front seats and steering wheel, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and bio-based leather upholstery as standard.
The CR-V e:FCEV comes with a small compromise in space, offering 25.2 cu. ft. of cargo volume instead of the CR-V Hybrid’s 34.7 cu. ft. (CR-V: 36.3 cu. ft.). With the rear seats folded, capacity rises to 61.0 cu. ft., still short of the hybrid’s 76.5 cu. ft.
Specifications
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV features the second-generation fuel cell module, co-developed with GM and manufactured under a joint venture with the same American partner at Fuel Cell System Manufacturing in Michigan.
The all-new fuel cell module has an output of 92.2 kW, drawing hydrogen from two tanks that store a total of 4.3 kg (9.5 lb.) gas at 10,000 psi and can be refueled in 3-5 minutes.
Honda has equipped the CR-V e:FCEV with a 17.7 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which comes in handy in case a customer is unable to find a hydrogen refueling station nearby. Customers can charge it with an AC charger at up to 6.4 kW and bring it to full capacity in approximately 2.5 hours.
Power comes from a front-mounted single electric motor producing 174 hp and 229 lb.-ft. of torque. The CR-V e:FCEV delivers an EPA-est. range of 270 miles, including 29 miles from the high-voltage battery pack. Honda includes a 110-volt power outlet capable of delivering up to 1,500 watts for powering tools and household appliances.
Also See: Honda Accord Hybrid Review: Balanced Midsize Sedan Hits The Mark
Price
Honda produces the CR-V e:FCEV in limited numbers at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, and offers it exclusively on a lease basis, limited to select areas near approved hydrogen fueling stations in California.
The lease is structured around an MSRP of USD 50,000, with most customers expected to choose a three-year, 36,000-mile plan priced at USD 459 per month and USD 2,959 due at signing. This plan includes USD 15,000 worth of hydrogen fuel credits over the lease term.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
