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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  Great reviews not justified - strike 2 - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By jerry king - July 28 - 6:39 pm

  I bought a 2011 CRV because we I wanted a quality vehicle before I retired. I wanted something that should last a long time with minimal maintenance. Before I retired, I want to purchase a vehicle of good quality and low maintenance. This is definitely not what I thought I had purchased. I had to replace the tires at 17,000 miles, Honda puts on junk tires just to get them off the lot. Putting on good tires on was $700 and now at 24,500 miles the airbag light stays on and I am told for $650 they can repair it. ( I also had a 2008 Accord that required new rear tires and brakes at 30,000 miles.) If I have another repair (other than normal wear and tear, brakes and etc.) the car will be going down the road. Honda is definitely not the quality vehicle that everyone seems to think they think.

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  Disappointed with my decision - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By M Flick - July 26 - 2:15 pm

  I did a lot of research into what car I wanted to invest in and am overall very disappointed with my decision. Im not a huge car person, nor do I pay much attention to these kinds of things. However, for how much I spent on this car, I would have expected a much better value. First, the gas mileage is really poor. It guzzles my gas and there is no chance that I get 22 mpg. My prior car had the same MPG and would last me at least 2x than what I get now. Second, the car rattles and shakes very easily, especially at high speeds. Third, the overall smoothness to the car. It is hard to drive and keep it smooth without jerking at any speed. The breaking is poor as well. Lastly, the stereo system is not clear and precise. For me, Toyota and Honda have always been safe choices. For this to be a Honda and give me this kind of trouble is disappointing. Im going to take a look at my options to see how I can trade it in and not lose a ton of money on it.

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  Impressed with Honda - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Travis - July 26 - 11:33 am

  So far (700+ miles in), this has been a great car. Ive gone from a pickup getting 18 mpg to 30.5 (all city driving) mpg on my last fill up. I am a big person, but the front seat is very comfortable. I love having multiple adjustments for the seat and steering wheel. I have had open heart surgery so ease of seating, adjustment of steering wheel, and getting in/out, are now top issues for me. Plus by getting and SUV, I dont feel Ive lost much in getting rid of a truck as far as hauling stuff around. I never towed anything anyhow. The vibration issue is non-existent in this car. Ive read about it and seen videos on it. It just feels like a regular 4 cylinder to me. I dont doubt that some folks are getting jostled, though. But mine is just fine. Over time I do wonder about the cloth seats. They are very plush and very soft. I am concerned that over time they will start to show their age, but Ill deal with that when I have to. So far, Ive been very impressed with the overall fit and finish of the car. This is my first Honda and they were never really on my radar. But after deciding to get out of a truck and shopping around, I shopped Chevy, Ford, Nissan and Mazda. The CR-V just made sense. Its a more comfortable ride with better standard features for the price. There is a bit of a learning curve regarding the touchscreen radio, but tinker around for a few minutes and youll have it figured out. We were very happy with how we were treated at our Honda dealership and Im sure this will be our new place to shop.

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  Outstanding value - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Dave - July 23 - 2:18 pm

  I purchased the 2015 Honda CR-V EX AWD on July 2, 2015. Previously I had a 2010 CR-V EX so I had a very good means of comparison. Initially I was concerned regarding reviews/reports of excessive vibrations with the new CVT transmission. I can say categorically after 800+ miles that the 2015 CR-V with the CVT does not vibrate any more than my previous 2010 CR-V EX AWD did. The features and functions of the new 2015 EX model are very nice. First the acceleration is excellent. Fuel mileage has increased from 21-22 for the 2010 to 28.5+ for the 2015 model. The backup camera is a real plus. The radio controls take a bit to get used to, however considering Im moving from the old analog radio with buttons to a touch screen its very nice. Overall I believe Honda has produced an excellent vehicle that will more than meet my needs.

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  Wanted an Escape got a CR-V - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Cincinnati or Toledo is where I am. - July 21 - 9:19 am

  For the longest time I had wanted a Ford Escape. When my mom finally talked my dad into getting me a new, fuel efficient car he suggested a Honda CR-V. I was skeptical at first, so we test drove an Escape which we then decided had too much road noise, funky wipers and my dad (whos a diesel mechanic) said it wasnt a quality build. Later we went and test drove the 2013 CR-V, and I was more comfortable the second I sat down. The sales guy was very helpful and showed me how to work the driver seat, steering wheel, wipers, turn signals, radio and more all for a test drive. Obviously I chose the Honda CR-V. I make a round trip of 400 miles from Toledo to Cincinnati a few times a month. Ohio is pretty flat and I average about 30-31 mpg going between 70-75 mph (sometimes with the cargo space and back seat loaded down with boxes for a college student). In the city I get about 20-25 mph depending on where Im going. I havent had any issues with the mechanics of the car. There was a simple recall when I first got the car and it was corrected right away for free. Oil changes and tire rotations arent too costly and the service staff at either Honda I go to are very friendly and helpful. Toledo has pretty snowy winters and the CR-V handles very well in the feet of snow that can come down in one day. The traction control has saved my butt a few times in the Toledo winter. I have had a slight issue with the USB port but its easily resolved by restarting the car. The Bluetooth comes in handy except when the microphone doesnt transmit to the person on the other line. Overall the electronics have been pretty solid. I love my CR-V, Ive had it for almost three years this thanksgiving and its been a damn good car.

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  Not ready for prime time - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Bruce Walker - July 20 - 9:00 pm

  Honda knows about the vibration issue with transmission/motor match-up- when I talked with Honda of North America, all they said was they "were working on it". I have driven Hondas for over 20 years and relied to heavily on my past experiences with Hondas in buying this clunker.

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  CR-V AC Condenser Rip-off!! - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Rebekah Conatser - July 20 - 5:04 pm

  I purchased a 2015 CR-V in April of 2015. I have always had Honda vehicles and have never been as disappointed as I am right now. On this past Friday afternoon, I got into my CR-V in 96 degree weather and my AC was not working. I immediately called Honda and made an appointment for the following morning. When I got home, my husband, who is a mechanic, checked it out just to see. He said the compressor was working and the belts were all running. So the sensor was sensing freon. Well we got to Honda the next morning, waited for 2 long hours, for them to say a rock or something hit my condenser and all my freon leaked out. And, of course, MY WARRANTY DOESNT COVER IT. It will cost me $400 to replace all of this. They did offer a $100 discount since the car was so new, however, I asked how a dent in my condenser that is smaller than a dime could take out my AC in the 3 months Ive had it. They said the condenser is made out of aluminum and is very fragile. There is NOTHING guarding this on the front of my car. I called the Honda Customer Service in my warranty book. The woman I spoke with flat out refused to reimburse me as well. I understand that an act of nature CAUSED this. However, if the condenser had been made out of stronger material or had protection covering it, this would never have happened!! I should not have to be replacing my AC after having my car for 3 months!!!

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  2011 = bullet proof - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By Hikerguy - July 20 - 3:19 pm

  Terrific little SUV. 60,000 + miles and no repairs. Service has been only recommended factory oil changes, etc. Took a trip cross country last month and the V averaged 27 mph with pretty aggressive highway driving. Could be a little quieter but we like the ride. We have the ex-l trim and the seats are very comfortable and supportive over long distances. Added Honda all season floor and cargo mats and haul around whatever we can fit with no issues.

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  Pre-certifired means nothing - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Mary Bailey - July 20 - 1:05 pm

  I have a Honda 2007 CRV LX 4WD. It is my third one to own. I have always bought brand new until the 2007. It was pre-certified, and I thought that meant something. Although it was going 4 years old and had a scratch on the hood, it only had 35,000 miles on it, and Hondas are supposed to do 300K, right? The certified meant it had nothing wrong with it, etc At 86000 miles and 3 years later, the air conditioner has stopped working. I got online to see that the 2002 - 2007 Honda CRV has a design defect that guarantees the AC will fail. A class action law suit resulted in Honda agreeing to do a 8 year/100,000 mile recall. I took it to my local Honda to be told there was no recall on my vin# and two day later, the air went to blowing only hoth wit the heat index at 110 degrees! The condenser broke and the whole system has to be replaced. I called the dealership I bought the certified Honda from to be told that although it was 2015 and it might sound like Honda would cover it until 2015 ended (the 8th year) my particular Honda came off of the line 1/29/07. The eight years are up as up 1/28/15. I was 13 weeks too late. What troubles me is that the dealer knew the Honda had this problem and that it was not a case of if it would break but when. It is a design defect! I am stuck. How could they certify a vehicle with a design defect that guaranteed the AC would go bad somewhere around 85,000 miles? Trading it in will give me low value and keeping it with no AC in the South could be a health hazard. I consider what Honda did to be unethical. Their certified still carries a "buyer beware." It is a way to dump defective vehicles.

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  A/C Compressor Black Death - RIP HONDA - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Rob Kientz - July 20 - 12:33 pm

  I purchased, used, a 2007 Honda CRV LX. I have owned Hondas all my life (24 years driving), and my family has owned Hondas since the 1970s. The two things I could always count on in Honda were a) excellent quality and therefore value and b) leading customer service. I am extremely disappointed to report that both may no longer hold true. As happens to many people since 2003 (I am now finding out) with a CRV SUV, the compressor clutch freezes and causes the compressor to explode. When this happens, the entire system (hoses, lines, evaporator, etc..) are contaminated, and the entire cooling system has to be replaced. I called Honda Corporate in California and found out they had an extended warranty, for this part, to 7 years/100k. My car is at 106k miles at the moment. So I am screwed. Not only that, but my mechanic told me the problem can recur because the replacement parts have the same issue. He has one customer who has brought in the system to be replaced 3 times over 115k miles. 3 times! So even if I pay the $2000 estimated repair cost, I could end up paying that again in a few thousand miles. So to recap: Honda has a known issue on CRV A/C compressors for 12 years, does NOT issue a recall, offers a limited parts warranty, and then kisses their customers goodbye. At this point, I told Honda Corporate I will never purchase a Honda again after 40 years of my family owning them. I have two Hondas in my driveway (also have a 2008 Civic) that I will now promptly sell and replace both with another brand. RIP Honda, I am done with you!