Honda CR-V Tyres: SUV Sizes & What We'd Recommend

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that sits somewhere in the middle range of Honda’s vehicle lineup in terms of size and build. Known for bridging the modern design for technology with comfort and efficiency when handling, the CR-V is reliable yet affordable, and provides drivers with the modern features they need to optimise safety and performance in different conditions.

Because the CR-V is a crossover SUV, it features the very best elements of a standard passenger car and an off-road vehicle. It has the capability to navigate more challenging terrains and surfaces, but with the comfort, noise reduction and enhanced fuel efficiency of a passenger car that’s designed for everyday use.

As such, matching a Honda CR-V with the right tyres is key; not just to optimised performance but also to safety and durability. When tyres are selected with the vehicle and its key features in mind, they tend to last longer and are better suited to the style of driving that the driver intends to do – regardless of whether they’re premium or mid-range.

Keep reading as we take you through the best tyres for a Honda CR-V, starting with size before transitioning into tyre type and structure.

What Kind of Tyres Suit a Honda CR-V?

With the Honda CR-V being a notable crossover SUV, tyres need to be versatile and able to traverse different terrains and driving conditions.

Just some of the main considerations to bear in mind when shopping for tyres for a crossover SUV include:

• Load rating, as SUVs are typically heavier than standard cars and so an adequate load rating is required to balance the overall weight of the vehicle
• Mixed terrain tread pattern
• Reinforced sidewalls and extra-strong rubber compounds to handle the demands of the heavier vehicle and the variable terrains

Like many vehicle manufacturers, Honda also has a list of its selected OEM tyre brands. While drivers do not have to purchase these brands for their Honda vehicle, the OEM-approved brands tend to be those that Honda considers the best for optimising vehicle performance and durability on the roads. These brands include Michelin, Yokohama, Bridgestone, Continental and Goodyear.

In short, when seeking tyres for a Honda CR-V, drivers are looking for versatile fitments that are strong and adaptable for different terrains, and that optimise performance and safety. The best place to start is with tyre size.

Ideal Tyre Size for a Honda CR-V

As a compact crossover SUV, the Honda CR-V typically uses tyres that are broad in width, with a relatively chunky sidewall that protects the comfort of the driving experience and minimises the risk of damage.

The most common sizes include the 235/60 R18 to 235/65 R17, depending on the exact model and age of your Honda CR-V, as well as driver preference. For example, we often see drivers who want to enjoy a sportier aesthetic and precise handling choosing the 235/55 R19 with broader wheel rims and thinner sidewalls, while the 225/65 R17 has a much thicker sidewall to protect the tyre from damage on the road.

You can find the exact size recommendation for your vehicle printed on its existing tyres or listed in the vehicle handbook.

Recommended Tyres for a Honda CR-V

Once you’ve identified the best tyre size to keep you safely and comfortably on the road, it’s time to dive into tyre type and features.

This is where, for a crossover SUV in particular, the choice becomes a little more extensive – as you consider the benefits of all-season and seasonal tyres, all-terrain tyres, mixed terrain tyres, and other key features.

UK drivers tend to choose all-season tyres, as our temperate climate means it’s possible for the same tyres to be safely used all-year round. These are often more expensive than summer and winter tyres, but don’t need switching – whereas more seasonal designs need to be changed. Some of the best all-season tyres for a Honda CR-V include the Pirelli Scorpion WeatherActive tyres and the Bridgestone Alenza A/S tyres, both of which support traction and comfort in different conditions and are responsive to variable terrains.

Summer tyres are built to handle wet and dry grip with ease and high performance, with top models including the Michelin Defender 2 tyres. Meanwhile, winter tyres are among the most sophisticated in their design with aggressive tread blocks and a flexible rubber compound that ensures good traction as the temperature drops. The Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 tyres are particularly popular among those traversing more challenging winter climates.

Beyond seasonal design, other things to look at include all-terrain and mixed terrain tyres, and those with run-flat designs and extra load capabilities. Note here that the Honda CR-V is ideal for some light off-road driving and is well supported by all-terrain tyres but is not built for the most aggressive off-road trails.

All of these tyres and plenty more can be found on our site, where you can also find more advice, guidance on comparing different tyre brands, and detail about tyre maintenance and how to keep your tyres in good shape.