Flagship Drive

When you think of Honda, reliability is likely the first thing that comes to mind, but style? You might be in for a surprise. Honda makes some of the most reliable SUVs. And that reputation hasn’t stopped the brand from delivering eye-catching designs, too. Though Honda tends to favor a more universally appealing aesthetic, some models stand out with sleek, modern styling or timeless, well-proportioned bodywork.

Compared to competitors like Toyota, Nissan, and Mazda, brands that have taken risks with bold, futuristic, or even aggressive SUV designs, Honda generally leans toward sophistication over flash. Yet, certain models rival the best-looking SUVs with aggressive front-end styling and sculpted body lines. But, besides turning heads on the road, they also maintain Honda’s signature practicality and reliability. To highlight examples, SlashGear has rounded up three standout designs that demonstrate the brand’s capabilities extend beyond just building reliable rides. 

Honda CR-V

It’s no surprise that the CR-V is one of Honda’s best-selling crossovers of all time. Besides factors such as fuel efficiency and practicality, it appeals to a broad audience with its modern design. The latest model refines this design with sculpted body panels. The lines on the sides enhance aerodynamic efficiency, reduce drag, and provide a more dynamic look. These improved aerodynamic details improve the CR-V’s fuel efficiency, especially in the hybrid variants, which retain 30 mpg combined.

Up front, the CR-V features a gloss-black grille flanked by sharp LED headlights with precision optics for improved visibility. At the rear, LED taillights with a light-guide design create a distinctive nighttime signature. Dual chrome exhaust finishers add a subtle sporty touch. Structural elements also contribute to the CR-V’s refined appearance. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure enhances crash protection and provides a well-proportioned and solid stance. 

Honda Pilot

In contrast to the CR-V, the Honda Pilot’s design adopts a truck-like aesthetic, while maintaining its unibody construction. The TrailSport model receives a rugged upgrade, featuring squared-off lines and a taller stance. The front bumper, integrated with a skid plate, reinforces the SUV’s off-road capabilities, particularly in the TrailSport trim. Despite being an unibody SUV, the Pilot has improved approach and departure angles. These provide enhanced clearance over rough terrain.

The most outstanding feature on the front end is the hexagon-mesh grille, which, complemented by sleek LED headlights, gives the front a bold look. In my 2024 Honda Pilot Review, I talked about the chiseled body lines and wide-opening rear doors. Large 20-inch alloy wheels provide a strong foundation, and gloss-black roof rails offer added versatility for cargo. At the rear, LED taillights complete the modern and functional design.

Beyond the design, the new Pilot offers a range of desirable features, such as the 285-hp 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which sends power to the front or all wheels via the tried-and-true 10-speed automatic transmission. Modern technology features consist of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, remote engine start, and a power tailgate with a Walk Away Close button. 

ALSO, READ: Why The 2025 Honda Pilot Will Be A Carryover Model

Honda Prologue

The Prologue was Honda’s first step into the electric SUV market. Built on a dedicated EV platform, it features a long wheelbase and short overhangs, which give it a stable, well-proportioned stance. The underfloor battery pack allows for a flat floor, which maximizes interior space and provides an open cabin feel. Also adding to this open feel is the panoramic moonroof, an optional extra. Its incredible aerodynamics help the Prologue’s design minimize drag, which adds more miles to its 296-mile driving range (in the FWD EX and Touring models).

We touched on the SUV’s clean and modern aesthetic, with smooth body surfaces and flush door handles that reduce air resistance. One of the reasons to buy the Honda Pologue is the fancy light bar that spans the front fascia, giving the SUV a distinctive visual signature. On the other hand, the LED headlights and taillights feature intricate lighting patterns for a high-tech look. It also brings large 19-inch wheels and a sloping roofline. Honda offers the Prologue with a range of bold exterior colors, including the North Shore Pearl shade inspired by California’s Lake Tahoe, which is the newest and most unique color Honda has ever used. The Prologue’s interior minimalist dashboard and large touchscreen display keep controls intuitive and accessible. 

Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V is a compact SUV with a sporty, modern look. Its current third-generation model, unveiled in 2022 and continuing into the 2025 model year, features a bold, sculpted body. We touched on the HR-V’s wider stance and the unusually aggressive front-end design. 

The most notable design elements of the HR-V honeycomb front grille, modern LED headlights, streamlined roofline. The brand offers an integrated roofline spoiler, and a panoramic glass roof is available. The HR-V Sport trim differs from the base model with exclusive 18-inch gloss-black wheels, a unique gloss-black grille, and a matte-black bumper. Other stylish details include a fin-type roof-mounted antenna, rear privacy glass, and reverse-linked intermittent rear window wipers. In case you’re in the market for the 2025 model, there are so many HR-V features worth being excited about, like the Honda Sensing Suite, Hill Descent Control, and a large infotainment screen.