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 !! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By JIGAR PATEL - January 26 - 3:53 pm

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  My Honda SUV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By To - January 24 - 1:06 pm

  Easy to park and turning radius outstanding. Pulls great behind RV, displays "0" miles while in tow. Has outstanding resale potential after 4 years. 4 cyl engine very responsive and quick. Power reduces as speed increases. Low power in overdrive. Front seats are adequate but could be a little larger.

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  Best Fuel Efficiency in an SUV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Allen G. - January 24 - 11:26 am

  My wife and I are touring musicians and although we would have preferred to buy a hybrid to get better fuel efficiency, we needed an SUV that would fit all of our gear. However, this car totally amazed us! We average about 35,000 miles per year and have been getting up to 33mpg on the highway even though the EPA only lists it at around 26mpg. This car is extremely comfortable, safe, and reliable. My mother just recently bought a new CR-V based on my recommendation and experience with ours.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned! - 1997 Honda CR-V
  By Derek T - January 24 - 1:16 am

  This truck started out as my wifes. She was going to trade it in for a new Camry and they were going to give her $5,000.00. I told her that I would give her $5.500 for it. That was back in 2007, it had 98,000 miles on it. I traded it in for a 2008 CRV on 12/12/15, it had 330,006 miles on it and I bet it gets 100,000 more. Other than oil changes every 6,000 miles, it cost me 2 timing belts, 2 water pumps, one battery, a set of plugs and wires, powered window unit (drivers side), a set of rotors(let pads go to long), and a couple sets of brake pads. A couple years back It got a steering rack. The leak was so slow that it probably would have last me till I got rid of it. A couple months back it left me stranded on when the ignition module went out. That is the only time it left me stranded or would not turn over. All it needed when I got rid of it was a catalytic converter and a power window motor for passenger side. The interior was still great. In fact there was just one little spot wore through the carpet on drivers side. Cloth drivers seat was still perfect!. Not bad for 330.006 miles.

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  Best vehicle I have ever owned! - 1997 Honda CR-V
  By Derek T - January 24 - 1:16 am

  This truck started out as my wifes. She was going to trade it in for a new Camry and they were going to give her $5,000.00. I told her that I would give her $5.500 for it. That was back in 2007, it had 98,000 miles on it. I traded it in for a 2008 CRV on 12/12/15, it had 330,006 miles on it and I bet it gets 100,000 more. Other than oil changes every 6,000 miles, it cost me 2 timing belts, 2 water pumps, one battery, a set of plugs and wires, powered window unit (drivers side), a set of rotors(let pads go to long), and a couple sets of brake pads. A couple years back It got a steering rack. The leak was so slow that it probably would have last me till I got rid of it. A couple months back it left me stranded on when the ignition module went out. That is the only time it left me stranded or would not turn over. All it needed when I got rid of it was a catalytic converter and a power window motor for passenger side. The interior was still great. In fact there was just one little spot wore through the carpet on drivers side. Cloth drivers seat was still perfect!. Not bad for 330.006 miles.

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  CRV- A Wise Choice - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By bill - January 23 - 2:56 pm

  I looked at many SUVs that were about the same size and many that were larger than the CRV and this was by far the best. The SE model has many extras including leather interior, six disc CD, heated seats and mirrors, moonroof and plenty of passenger/cargo space as well as an excellent ride. The CRV is not meant to haul trailers but is an excellent family vehicle, that has the reliability of being a Honda, and the safeness of real time four wheel drive and a few other safety features. This SUV is not the most stylish, but overall the best that I have driven with excellent gas mileage!

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  great suv - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By nbgurl - January 23 - 10:00 am

  I have only had this vehicle for a short time and its my first Honda suv but my 4th Honda. it is a great vehicle to drive and comfortable to drive. i would buy another. No complaints here. Keep up the great work Honda!!!

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  overall safety - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By bobby baisden - January 23 - 10:00 am

  great driving, good price, bad gas mileage,need over all safety rating.

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  1998 Honda CR-V - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By areyoukiddingme? - January 22 - 3:42 pm

  The reliability in this truck is incredible. I bought mine with 144000 miles and now have 229000 and it is still tight. The guy who just did my timimg belt couldnt believe the shape the engine is in. It is what is designed to be - fuel efficient, 4wd, roomy and functional.

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  my crv - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By my crv - January 21 - 4:30 am

  Bought the CRV because it gives the flexibility of a minivan but allows you to maintain your dignity. My wife and I are constantly impressed with just how easy it is to drive this car and do errands, etc. Everything seems to be simple, in the right place, is at the right height and functions the way youd expect it. And its still fun to drive.