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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  Is it showing its age? - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By juliegal - July 2 - 7:53 pm

  Ive had my CR-V for 2.5 years. Its been a great car and fun to drive, but I think it may be starting to show its age! At 2 years/30K the brakes, battery and tires all had to be replaced--too soon, in my book. Car has pulled to right from the start, but I live with that. From day one, Ive experienced a grinding noise from the rear when turning hard (U-turns). Finally, at the shop today I was told there is a differential repair bulletin out for this, requiring resurfacing and new pads (work done at Hondas expense). Lately, I notice the car is a bit sluggish starting, and it surges at stop signs. The VSA indicator comes on occasionally. Hope this isnt a problem brewing!

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  2002 CRV - A Bargain at Sticker Price - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Mike VaVerka - July 2 - 10:00 am

  If want a mini off-road vehicle then dont buy a CRV. However, if you want a versatile, fun-to-drive, economical and surprisingly spacious mini-SUV, the CRV cannot be beat. Save yourself a few thousand and buy the 2WD LX model. It still has a lot of nice features and handles fine on steep dirt roads. You can purchase most of the useful Honda add-ons like security, keyless entry, enhanced sound system, etc. by buying these items through the web and installing them yourself. I purchased the car through a broker who charged me the Edmunds Invoice price plus $700. The total price was still less than MSRP. Ive been driving this car for 2 months and have had no regrets. Way to go Honda!

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  Big time bang for the buck - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By csjroadie - June 29 - 10:43 pm

  This is my first non-luxury car in over 25 years and the gap has diminished somewhat. Owned Saab, Lexus and Acura, all of which were great cars, particularly the Lexus. For just over $32k for a loaded AWD Touring Ive gotten a very well-balanced car that is surprisingly refined and peppy. Do wish it had more ponies under the hood, but thats kind of what you get in this class. Fairly quiet and smooth, especially for a crossover. Mileage is below listed as many posters have noted, but still pretty good. Safety features on par with the NX and RDX I looked long and hard at for $10k more. Infotainment system is not class-leading but certainly way better than some of the dour reviews its received. All in all, Honda needed to hit a home run with the new CR-V and having looked in depth at all of the competitors in this class, I think theyve nailed it. A really well-rounded car that now looks and feels much more premium than the CR-Vs of old and can legitimately be considered a mid-size option.

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  More than a car. - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Robert palmer - June 29 - 6:44 am

  Every detail was more than I expected.

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  Cant beat the reliability statistics on a Honda - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Debora M. - June 28 - 2:52 pm

  I was looking for a Honda CR-V that would take me through the next 10 years and I think I found one. One owner, low mileage. Only hitch was a couple of door dings, which was OK by me. Chose not to buy Honda Certified Pre-owned because of the higher price for the certification and the Honda dealer wouldnt work with me on the price or my trade in.

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  Piece of garbage! - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Lauren - June 28 - 12:05 pm

  We bought our CRV in 2004 and we absolutely hate it! We cant wait to get rid of it. It revs up really high when trying to speed up, so it sounds like you are going fast, but you are hardly moving. The cruise control can differ like 10 mph than what you set it at. It has a hard time going up hills and revs up really high. Good luck trying to pass anyone. The stereo sounds horrible. The paint is cheap as well as the carpet. We think there is a slight oil problem because of a little smoke that comes out of the exhaust. Electrical is so messed up! Alot of things dont work properly. Very uncomfortable, especially for long trips. I dont see why people recommend Hondas! They are cheap junk.

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  Worst vehicle ever owned - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By nashcbr929 - June 28 - 9:49 am

  I hate this car, I traded my f-150 supercrew 5.4 for this CR-V because my wife wanted something smaller w/better gas mileage. My truck got 13.5 everywhere, and this CR-V gets about 14 in town, and I completely baby this thing. I keep it under 2000 rpms everywhere in town and still get 14 mpg. It doesnt lock the doors automatically in drive, no auto headlights, terrible ergonomics in the seats and driving position. The only thing positive I have to say about it is that it has light steering and handles decent.

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  Love it! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Joy - June 27 - 11:36 pm

  I bought this car after my Honda was ruined in a wreck. I have NEVER liked the CR-V and yet, just off a chance, I decided to drive the new one. What an incredible difference over the older models. It does not feel "chintzy" or flimsy. Finally a solid feeling CRV with pep and pizzaz. I love the fact that the new design is more modern, streamlined and clean. Kudos Honda! Ive always been a fan of the Accord, now (if you keep this up) Im a fan of the CRV. Ive been "CRVed"

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  A Must Have - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Cindy - June 27 - 11:08 am

  I have had this SUV for almost 9 years and have had no problems what-so-ever! I highly recommend this vehicle for everyday use. The only minor thing I had to replace, besides the usual tires, oil and filters, was the rear-differential fluid (at 100,000 miles) because it made a grinding noise when maneuvering tight turns. Great gas mileage between 23 and 26 city. It handled snow great! It also has child-safety locks for the back doors and windows. I would purchase another CR-V in a heartbeat, but dont particularly like the exterior of the newer models.

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  Great Buy - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By Joe Robertson - June 26 - 12:13 pm

  The car is attractive and smooth. I have a tech background and love the technology that is has. Overall, Id highly recommend this vehicle. The only issue I have is that its more of a sporty vehicle than a family car.