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:
Showing 1951 through 1960 of 4,333.00-
Going great at 120K miles! - 2006 Honda CR-V
By V_R - February 20 - 1:42 amThis car used to have some alignment problems in the first 3 years after I bought it new . After that , no repairs except for scheduled maintenance. Recently put in new drive belt and hoses (recommended after 100k). Runs great. planning to keep it forever !
-
After Driving Every CUV, the CR-V wins! - 2010 Honda CR-V
By Mike S - February 19 - 4:36 pmFlexible space, love the trunk and cabin space. +26 MPG thus far. Handling is good, HP to 180 is a noticeable difference vs 09 Build quality is top notch, this vehicle is tight, no gaps in panels or rattles. Integrated bluetooth for 10is a plus. Well drive this car for 5 years and it will be worth 50% of its value.
-
Honda CR-V - 2002 Honda CR-V
By Feraz - February 17 - 10:00 amI love driving this car in my neighborhod and in the highway. This CR-V has enough horsepower for a little SUV. The sound system is great and i love the sound of the bass when i play my music. The remodel is better looking than the older model of the CR-V and i admire the exterior design because is so hot!
-
Very Satisfied with my CR-V - 2005 Honda CR-V
By mrcay - February 17 - 3:20 amIve owned 4 Toyotas (1 Camry, 2 Highlanders & 1 Matrix) before and this is my first Honda. I am very impressed with the CR-V. I was considering a RAV4 but this is a better choice--more features and lower price. It is spacious for a small SUV. The acceleration is just fine for a 4 cylinder SUV. I love the pewter pearl color.
-
Wow that was fast!!! - 2015 Honda CR-V
By Paul Resnik - February 16 - 4:27 pmI purchased my new Honda CR-V (touring) on June 1, 2015. I have accumulated over 35000 miles on the vehicle driving across the west and in the northeast after retiring. Actually moved out to California for the winter with my dog, from Pennsylvania, with everything carried in the car. The car has been very comfortable, and I have felt safer due to the blind spot monitor camera on the passenger side view mirror. The car has been driven in a variety of weather conditions, esp. rain and wind conditions. Did have two episodes of hydroplaning with the OEM tires in severe downpour condidtions, easily dealt with by slowing down by taking foot off the gas pedal. Majority of driving has been freeway/interstate. No experience with snow or ice with this car. I love the quality of the entertainment system and the variety of options with Pandora and satellite radio. The hands free phone system is very cool in connection with my iPhone 6plus. Navigation is effective in helping me get where I want to go, and in accurately gauging the "are we there yet?" factor! Power lift tailgate is a great thing to have! I am concerned that later this month, after only 10 months of ownership, I will be out of warranty having driven as many miles as I have, but have had great experiences with Hondas (an Accord LX, a CR-V LX, and a Pilot Touring) in the past. Very happy with this vehicle.
-
1800 miles and already broken - 2002 Honda CR-V
By Not a Fan - February 13 - 10:00 amToday my one month old CRV stalled twice within a 5 min. period. I drove straight to the dealership only to be told they probably wouldnt be able to find the answer. Turns out there is a "bulletin" about this very problem which requires the computer to be reprogrammed. Uncomfortable seats,frequent fill-ups due to small tank and higher than promised mileage, and loud road noise all add up to sub- par transportation. I miss my Blazer!
-
Best Car I Ever owned - 2004 Honda CR-V
By Jay in Ocean County - February 11 - 12:55 pmGreat car, had 221,000, then I think the private local mechanic changed the starter and ruined my transmission, Never replaced anything but the catalytic converter Had 1 tune-up at 110,000 miles.
-
Great Car - Great Price! - 2004 Honda CR-V
By teaguerc - February 8 - 10:00 amI have had my CRV for 2 weeks now and I cant say enough good things about it! I went from being a mom in a mini van to having my identity back! This vehicle is built well. My husband suggested I look at the CRV and initially I didnt want to because it looked so small from the outside - but then I sat inside! My friends husband who is 61 even sat comfortably in the drivers seat and the rear seat, even sitting behind the driver with the seat all the way back! Fun to drive. Great vehicle.
-
A great small SUV - 2003 Honda CR-V
By okchonda - February 6 - 2:00 amThis is one of the nicest, affordable vehicles I have every owned. Much better than the American-made trash Ive driven before.
-
Great little suv - 2005 Honda CR-V
By scott h - February 6 - 12:03 amSo far I have have no problems at all with my 2005 CRV SE. Its bigger than it looks from the outside! Gets good MPG for suv also.
