Overview & Reviews

When the original Honda CR-V debuted in the late 1990s, its mission was simple: to offer a distinct alternative to more mainstream mid- and full-size large SUVs. With its car-based design, economical four-cylinder engine and sedanlike ride and handling, the CR-V was an instant hit. Priced competitively and offering plenty of passenger room and cargo capacity for most people's needs, the Honda CR-V has long enjoyed strong sales numbers and much loyalty from consumers.

Today, the compact- or small-SUV segment has grown to include more than a dozen different models, with varying philosophies of what constitutes the perfect blend of size, power and capability. While some models offer more powerful upgrade engines and others can deliver true off-road capability, the Honda CR-V remains focused on its more practical aspirations. True to form, it is one of the best choices available in the all-important areas of being both easy to drive and family-friendly.

Current Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is offered in familiar LX, EX and EX-L trim levels. Even the LX comes pretty well equipped, while the EX and EX-L get additional convenience and luxury features. The EX-L is also eligible for either a navigation system or a rear-seat entertainment system. You can't get the navigation and the DVD systems together, however.

Powering all CR-Vs is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine that's good for 185 horsepower and 163 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed transmission. On all models, front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.

The newest Honda CR-V's list of merits is a long one. Its interior is intelligently thought out and boasts strong fit and finish. Its ride is more comfortable and quieter than before, and handling and steering remain high points. Its major shortcoming concerns passing power in certain circumstances. We've found the CR-V's acceleration peppy enough around town, but somewhat sluggish during merging and passing maneuvers on gradients. However, as long as your beaten path doesn't include many steep roads or overly heavy loads, the Honda CR-V should provide all the room, refinement and performance you will ever need.

Used Honda CR-Vs
The current, fourth-generation CR-V was redesigned for 2012. Changes were of the more evolutionary sort, as its size, basic interior packaging and engine were similar to the previous model. Key alterations included a quieter and more comfortable ride, additional features and a backseat that flipped down from levers in the trunk.

The third generation of the Honda CR-V was produced from 2007-'11. Compared to the previous-generation CR-V, this one had few key improvements, including a new liftgate (instead of the previous side-mounted door with an outside-mounted spare tire), improved handling and steering, and the option for a navigation system for the first time.

Trim levels included the traditional LX and EX, plus the EX-L -- the L signifying leather upholstery (along with heated front seats). CR-Vs from 2007-'09 made 166 hp versus 180 hp for the following two years. A five-speed automatic transmission was standard across the board, and all trims could be had with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Those looking for maximum luxury in a CR-V should know that the EX-L gained a power driver seat, automatic climate control and a premium stereo for 2008. An SE trim level, which slotted between the traditional LX and EX trims, was made for just the final year of this generation.

In reviews, we've found this CR-V to be a very well-rounded model. High points included a comfortable and sensible interior, top crash test scores and agile handling. Elevated amounts of road noise might be a problem for some shoppers, as would be the engine's modest power, but overall this CR-V should be a great choice for a used small crossover SUV.

Produced from 2002-'06, the second-generation CR-V boasted a number of improvements compared to the original CR-V, including more power, more interior room and improved passenger protection. It was available in base LX or uplevel EX trim. The EX had more features, as well as standard antilock brakes and side airbags for the entire run (the LX didn't get them as standard until 2005), so picking an EX might be a wise idea. Notably, stability control and side and side curtain airbags became standard across the lineup in '05. The Special Edition model, available only in 2005 and '06, included exterior styling tweaks, a hard spare tire cover and heated leather seats and mirrors.

Power came from a 2.4-liter four cylinder rated at 160 hp, though this number dropped to 156 hp in 2006 due to a revised rating procedure. The LX had standard front-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, while the EX was AWD-only until 2006, when a FWD version was also made available. Both LX and EX initially came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, but from 2005 onward the manual was limited to the EX. The other transmission, an automatic, had four speeds until 2005, when it was upgraded to five.

In reviews, our editors lauded the second-generation CR-V's comfortable ride and refined powertrains, though the significant road noise at speed was deemed regrettable. Some of us found the four-cylinder a bit meek, but its smooth power delivery and reasonable efficiency were mentioned as admirable traits. All in all, the second-generation CR-V was roundly praised when new and remains a solid choice on the used-car market.

The original first-generation Honda CR-V compact SUV was produced from 1997-2001. It was priced competitively and offered more passenger room and cargo capacity than its peers. A manual transmission was added in 1998, and a welcome 20-hp boost the following year gave it a new output of 146 hp. In 2000, a leather-trimmed SE (Special Edition) model was added to lead the model lineup.

User Reviews:

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  Disappointing gas mileage and performance - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By jamalamy - January 8 - 2:03 pm

  Got the 07 CRV AWD as a commuter work horse and it serves its purpose. But after reading other reviews, I wonder if our CR-V is just off. Even after 5000 miles, best I have ever gotten is 22-24 mpg on pure freeway driving with no stop and go. I expected much better gas mileage. Really needs a 6 cyl particularly given the extra weight the AWD puts on the vehicle. Really struggles to maintain freeway speeds (70+ mph) on inclines. Overall, its a decent little SUV. I guess I cant expect it to drive or perform like a $50K+ SUV. Wish I could tell when the AWD engages!

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  My YUPPIE Mobile - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Angelnot - January 8 - 10:00 am

  Sante Fe cramped my legs & pinched my butt. The Rav4 was cute,fun, expensive & noisy. The CR-V had the quieter more powerful engine. Paid full, take it or leave it, sticker price. Drove 45 miles just to test drive. It is no where as fun to drive(or look at)as my old Sube but it does zip along even in the mountains. Turning and parking were what finally impressed me. 1500 miles in 5 weeks. No rattles no problems. Just get in & go. MEasy to get in & out of. 24 mpg mixed driving. Road noise was an issue, dealer upgraded the tires. Its plain, its a Comfortable Runabout Vehicle

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  Best of both worlds - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By boardercross26 - January 8 - 10:00 am

  THE NEW HONDA CRV IS THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS. IT GIVES YOU A CAR LIKE RIDE WITH THE COMFORT OF AN SUV. I HAVE HAD MY CRV FOR 8 MONTHS NOW AND IT IS JUST PERFECT.THE SMALL, BUT ROOMY SUV EVEN HANDLES GOOD IN THE RAIN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS.THIS CRV HAS PLEANTY OF ROOM INSIDE AND THE SIX DISC IN DASH IS A COMMUTERS HEAVEN. 160 HORSE UNDER THE HOOD MOVE THIS SLEEK SUV ALONG TO PERFECTION.IF YOUR LOOKING FOR A SUV THAT WILL GET YOU AROUND AND IS FUN TO DRIVE. THEN THE CRV IS FOR YOU ITS EVEN NICE TO LOOK AT, WHICH IS A PLUS. GIVE AN HONDA CRV A TRY AND YOU WILL SEE WHY IT IS A MUST HAVE SUV.

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  Honda CRV-SE - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By John Thomas - January 7 - 11:13 pm

  This is one fun car to drive. It handles well and we have found that the gas mileage is as promised. We love the appearance and convenience of the back door that works two ways. We are able to carry a lot in the back even without putting the back seats down. The heated seats are a bonus and we got this car fully loaded and really love it.

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  Best Mid Size SUV - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Karthic S Bharathi - January 7 - 2:05 pm

  This is an excellent mid size SUV I have ever seen under $30k. The build quality is very good and fuel economy is good too. The Maintenance minder is an excellent option. But with AWD option need to change the rear fluid around 15000 miles which is not very good. Other than that, overall it is value for money SUV.

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  Very Happy with this car - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By amit - January 7 - 9:42 am

  This is my first SUV (well, mini-SUV). I was contemplating buying between either the RAV4 or Honda CRV. Glad I bought the latter. The interior of this car is much nicer than RAV4. The spare tire is mounted internally under the trunk and not behind the trunk door (which looks ugly). Love the dash computer which tells you the mpg in real-time. I have driven the car about 400 miles. So far, I am averaging 27-28 mpg in the city. The only thing I do not like so far is there is a shudder/vibration upon applying the brakes. It was particularly bad the first day... it has gotten much better now. Maybe, it was just new brakes. The CD/AM-FM player is easy to reach and very good audio quality.

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  2008 As Is Honda CRV 174,000 - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Deborah Jones - January 6 - 6:30 pm

  The mileage is too high for year of car. Overall and general maintenance not done for a long time. Needs 4 new tires (now bald), an entire engine break job (but only 3 calipers??), recharging and re-assessment of AC (compressor okay), oil change, transmission fluid level change, etc - otherwise it is a Honda.

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  First timer and proud to own it. - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Espeedy - January 5 - 10:00 am

  First Honda ever and after much research definitely made the right choice. Great styling, very good handling and lots of interior room. High seating position is very nice and gives a great view over smaller cars. AWD is reassuring. Short throw shifts are very sporty as are the seats. Fold down, reclining and sliding rear seats are fantastic.

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  Am I just unlucky? - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Bob - January 1 - 2:00 am

  I put a lot of miles on my car. Bought a Honda. Paid $26k for it out the door (loaded) and the engine light keeps coming on and the transmission just locked up. Merry Christmas to me. I hope it works out but beware. Hondas are not unbreakable!

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  Honda, What else do you need to know? - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By JohnBoy - January 1 - 2:00 am

  This is our 2nd CR-V, so we went with all the bells and whistles. Added side cladding on the silver and moonvisor, plus hood air deflector. Sharp!!!!! I would recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a great,long lasting, trouble free SUV.