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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  CR-V revu - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By sjurey - August 3 - 10:00 am

  As a busy mom, transporting and hauling the stuff of a family is so much easier and more fun in my CR-V. Kids, dogs, groceries, science projects--they all can fit in this vehicle. Reliable, easy to maintain, and fun to drive -- the CR-V has been a great addition to our family.

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  CRV 5 speed - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By mpgiv - August 3 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for a month..5 speed ex model is hard to find..had to get one out of town..bought the car over the telephone..very happy with car except for one thing which all manufacturers seem to do...lousy standard equipment tires..comes with B, B rated tires..already got rid of the tires that came with the car..car averages 25 mpg with a/c..average speed of 70 on highway..mileage consists of 20% city and 80% highway..Excellent honda build quality.not one problem to date..this one came from england..not my first honda car..have owned several..thought this was better value for the money than the pilot..Recommend highly

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  Great Car, Great Value! - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Andrew - August 2 - 11:50 am

  I may be the first person to sell a 3 year old Audi A6 (a "luxury") car to get a CR-V. CR-V is fun to drive, very reliable and extremely roomy. Great for lugging a bike or two in back. No question its a no thrills car but that is the beauty behind it. Car has everything on it you need with out the bells and whistles that tend to break anyways. No question this car will be around for a while. Hoping to keep it for my 13 year old son.

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  Pretty good, but some annoying issues - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Evelyn - August 1 - 2:16 pm

  I have manual & had to bring it in for clutch issues 6x (free). The rear wiper only rotates apx. 60 degrees w/rear windows open you get a horrid air noise no int wipers & wipers grind on windshield crappy upgraded sound system locks are funny based on key position in ignition other than that, the car has held up well & will probably resell well also. It could have been better, but at least it never broke down on the road. I beat on it too.

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  poor interior Design,a lot other problems - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By david 67 - July 31 - 9:07 am

  8 month after i saw mold under sunroof and dealer guys not found any problems,each month i have problems with the car

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  Feels Solid and its Fun to Drive - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By mercurius_1 - July 29 - 7:26 am

  Previous vehicle was a 95 Toyota Camry; traded up for a bigger and hopefully safer vehicle that wont also be a gas hog. This is deceptively big with a very well thought out interior. It rides firmly and solidly over the rough roads of central PA. So far I have no complaints whatsoever about it. I love sitting higher when I drive and I am impressed with all of the standard safety features. I also love the interior cargo space - Im an artist and this vehicle has plenty of room for me to haul around my paintings and other materials. Love it so far!

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  Idle Vibration - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Jason Cai - July 28 - 7:34 pm

  I bought the CRV EX AWD a week ago, on the way driving the car back home, I noticed the vibration when I stopped at a traffic light. I went back to the dealer this past Saturday to report the issue, the sale person told me to go back on Monday, so they could take a look. I went back yesterday, he told me he talked to their service manager and they are aware of the issue, but nothing they could do but wait for Honda to release a fix. Before Honda commits a fix for this issue, I would not recommend to buy this car.

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  One of the most fun cars Ive owned - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Honda Lover - July 28 - 8:27 am

  I have owned a 1993 Accord, 1999, 2001 and 2003 civic but this CRV was just the right fit for our growning family! We were deciding between the Pilot and the CRV. Hands down, we prefer the CRV. It was $6,000 less, gets better gas mileage (5-7 mpg) and has plenty of room to spare. The flexibilty that the seat positioning offers is great! I especially like the floor in the rear that turns into a picnic/card table. If you are looking at a small SUV, look no further. This CRV gives you the room, versitility, and comfort that you are looking for and at a great price! 2007 is being re-designed and the body style is changing and NOT for the better. Get the 06 while it lasts!

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  Steady and Reliable Friend - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Robert - July 27 - 3:33 am

  Other than normal wear and tear, I have never had to have any major work performed on this CR-V. While it may not be the sexiest SUV out there, it is solid and reliable, like an old friend. The interior has held up well and is quite functional. My major issue is that I only average 20-22 MPG on the Interstate and @ 17-18 MPG city. Also, Id like a bit more low end torque to get the CR-V motivated when I need it to get up and go. Once it is at speed, it is a smooth ride with average noise intrusion. Very good brakes and handling for a SUV. I am very satisfied with my CR-V and I plan to keep it for at least another 5 years.

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  I love my CR-Vs - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By THE g man - July 24 - 7:38 pm

  This is my second CR-V. I put 210,000 on the first one in about 6 years. The car cost me about $1500 in repairs over those 6 years. I do my own brakes and oil changes. Im still using the original rotors which are level and smooth as can be. Ive had only minor engine problems and use the car to deliver my mail route of 31 miles, 6 days a week. I love both my CR-Vs, they are the best cars I have ever owned.