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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  Lack of Oxygen - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Nickel99 - October 30 - 11:03 am

  Purchased the car new and currently have 53,250 miles. I have enjoyed the car and it has performed up to Honda quality and reliability standards except for this recent experience. Both of the oxygen sensors failed at the same time and had to be replaced at 53,000 miles.

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  vibrations - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Jerzy Ryczek - October 29 - 1:29 am

  that thing vibrates when idling ,and also on low speeds ,very disappointed ,also have 2013 honda accord with same motor and transmission and no problems like that,hopefully honda will fix this soon,but for now people stay away from this car

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  20k miles a year and going great - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By G - October 28 - 12:48 pm

  Our 2015 CRV has been great. Initially I worried about he reports of vibration from some owners but thankfully Ive had absolutely no issues. Performance and comfort are great. Handling is solid. Quite happy. Only two things Id change: --the built in microphone for calls really has a hard time with any ambient noise. Wind or even air from the vents regularly disrupts calls and commands. -- The tan seats get spots too easily. I moved to the CRV from he Ody van and a Passat and Camry before that. These CRV seats definitely mark up more quickly than any of the others. Other than that, great car!

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  Quality slipped a bit - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By EABTroy - October 28 - 10:48 am

  Note I also own a 2000 CR-V. Honda improved upon the last CR-V, but they also cheapened it up. Our 2003, bought new, has had more problems than the last 10 cars I have had combined. Alternator, door actuator, two door light switches, carpet is crap, dashboard "plastic" can be visibly scratched with a fingernail, paint is easily chipped. I also understand the A/C should crap out at any time. Honda also still have the 4wd service listed at 100K miles, not 30K like what is required. The dealer has been helpful, but its unbelievable for a Honda to be like this. Fortunately, my parents got a 2007 CR-V and, suffice to say, Honda learned their lesson!

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  Ignore the owners manual - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By EAB - October 28 - 10:39 am

  One caveat. If you follow the owners manual on this model, you WILL have problems and perhaps MAJOR problems. Some idiot decided that US CR-Vs (98-2001 only) get a 105,000 valve interval in the owners manual while all other countries manuals state 30,000 miles. If you attempt to go to 105K without the valves adjusted, the engine may not make it. Ask Honda if you dont believe me. Instead, have the local Honda Dealer run the valves every 30,000K. If you are not sure if this has been done, get it DONE ASAP. While youre there, have em do the rear 4wd fluid as well as they lied about that one as well. It needs to be done every 30K.

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  A great car for all ages. - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By vovak - October 25 - 2:00 am

  It is big, powerfull and fun to drive. I was able to fit 3 pairs of skis and two passangers with comfort. Also great for my other outdoor activities.

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  consumer - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By leitrim - October 24 - 7:05 pm

  I have driven Honda Accords Nissan and Mercedes and LOVE the CR-V in comparison to the others. This is an extremely comfortable ride with versatility. I have no complaints. Aside from the real bells and whistles, this is a great auto and I HIGHLY recommend it to others.

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  Best SUV of the Year - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Dave - October 24 - 6:38 pm

  The Honda CR-V of 2005 beat out all the other SUVs in 2005 for quality & traction control (yes, even the Jeep Wrangler!). This is a fine tuned, well manufactured automobile! Ive owned this car since college. Over the years, Ive watched my friends spend $1000s in out of pocket costs for parts and labor to keep up their cars. Over the past 2 years (130,000-160,000) Ive spent about $3000 in repairs (mostly due to the fact that Ive kicked the crap out of the suspension on Colorados rocky roads). Since Ive left, I havent done anything but the regular servicing. This car will take the abuse and just keep on rolling on!

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  Love Lady Bella - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Elizabeth Medbury - October 24 - 7:56 am

  Love my new ride!

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  Good Small SUV - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Steve - October 23 - 11:33 pm

  Great small suv overall. Ride is smooth overall but can be jarring over medium to larger size bumps. Engine has enough power around the city, but could use more on the freeway or when merging. Interior is nicely finished, but leather is a little on the cheap side compared to a premium small suv (acura rdx, infiniti ex35, etc.).