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:

• 

  Gotta love it! - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By T. Moore - October 11 - 2:08 pm

  We love our CRV. We love the cargo capacity and we have hauled just about everything you can think of. We love the comfort of the interior and have taken many driving trips in it. Except that now that it is a bit older and the ride is getting a little bumpy, there is nothing we can say thats negative about this car. Except for the routine oil changes/maintenance, it has not seen the inside of a dealership or repair shop. When we trade it, it will be to get a newer one. Were just that satisfied.

• 

  Love my first Honda - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Dirkie - October 10 - 4:44 pm

  This is my first Honda. Have had Chevy, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Volkswagen etc. This is the first time I write a review on a car. Only reason I really like this car all around. We just returned from a 7500 mile, 30 day trip. Never stepped out the car unable to move my rather stiff limbs, got 29.3mpg over the whole trip (mostly highway driving but still). Have now 12k+ miles on the car and "did" 2 oil changes at a dealer at a cost of $ 28 each. It is the best overall car I have ever owned and I am officially old.

• 

  Honda CRV-LX 2007 - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Vickie - October 7 - 11:03 pm

  What a great vehicle! This is the 4th Honda I have purchased and by far the best! I traded in a 2001 Honda CRV for my new 2007. I love it. It is a great vehicle for anyone that is short. Being only 52", I have a difficult time in most cars with visibility. Not with the CRV. The seat adjustment for height is great! So far I have averaged 27 miles to the gallon. Couldnt see myself driving a car again after owning a CRV! Very smooth car like ride.

• 

  Im Loving It! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Sunflower - October 6 - 5:19 pm

  Ive had my car for 8 months, and its been great. Its zippy and fresh. I had a 2005 and I upgraded when the new 2007s came out. I do not regret it. The leather seats are more luxurious, and the inside finishes give the car a luxury feel. Would definitely recommend it.

• 

  Honda CRV 2007 - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By sdc - October 6 - 9:51 am

  After owning an 01 Accord EX, 03 Pilot EX/L and 05 Pilot EX-L w/Nav we decided to give the 2007 CRV-L w/Nav a try. I would not have considered it if the wheel was attached to the to the rear, what an improvement, the styling is great. We took it on a trip( round trip, 1800 miles) the CRV performed as we expected-great! The Nav is system is right on the money, what an improvement on the nav system in the pilot.

• 

  Love it! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By lvchick - October 5 - 3:42 pm

  I didnt fully appreciate my CR-V until I got stuck with a Trailblazer for a rental car. The car is beautiful this is a vehicle that is comfortable enough for long road trips. The standard features (sunroof, 6 disc CD changer, mp3 jack, multiple storage compartments, etc) are endless. I have the AWD model and get 23mpg in the city. Safety features are top rated. And its a Honda--you know itll last! For my lifestyle, (camping, off-roading to get to hiking trails, the dog, the kids, etc.) this is the perfect vehicle. Not only would I recommend the CR-V, I would buy another one.

• 

  CRV-Power Steering Rack - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By 2HONDA - October 3 - 4:53 pm

  Just purchased the Honda CR-V EX-L (AWD) and with only 71 miles had a problem with the power steering. Took the car back to the dealer to find out that the power steering rack is leaking power steering fluid. The rack is on back order and they should have the part in 2 days. Anyone ever requested a new vehicle? Im not impressed with the quality or reliability.

• 

  Big Suprise In A Small Package - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Spindoctor - September 30 - 6:43 pm

  Took ownership on 9-24-07. The Honda CR-V is a joy to drive. Tested 10-12 other vehicles. It has a smooth, quiet ride and for a 4-cylinder the car has surprising pickup. My first impression of the car was when I opened and shut the door. Solid. No vibrations and no hollow sound. Sounded just like the doors on a Lexus-RX 350. Second impression was when I went for a test drive When the salesman drove the car up for us I thought he turned off the motor Much to my surprise the car was running when I got into it. Nimble and smooth was my experience while driving the vehicle. With Hondas reliability, resale value and the cars gas mileage I dont think I could have made a better choice.

• 

  dont buy until they fix this massage chair - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By justin - September 29 - 5:51 pm

  We very much like the new design and new features but the new cvt is the problem, hopes that they fill fix it quickly. Also they hiked the price.

• 

  Our Second CRV - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By atlaw4u - September 27 - 1:14 pm

  We decided to replace our 2002 CRV LX 2wd after 65,000 trouble free miles with the 2007 CRV EXL AWD. Our only reason for replacement was a need for all wheel drive. We are long term Honda owners and believe Honda builds the most reliable cars on the road with great build quality. With that said the 2007 CRV is much improved over the old body style but that comes at a price of $7600 more than the origianal price of our 2002 CRV. However, the 07 feels like a much more upscale car and we did opt for the EXL package which includes leather and a sunroof. We are quite happy with our purchase and cant imagine a better SUV value. I wish the mileage was a little better as we are averaging 22mpg.