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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  Love at 1st site - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By 300K + - September 18 - 2:00 am

  This was the 1st car I bought brand new & wanted to keep. 11 yrs later & 300k + miles she runs like a charm, very little maintenance, brakes were still good after 120k. I wish they never changed the body style after 2001.

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  First CR-V and PROUD OF IT! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By SR - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought a 2010 CRV EX AWD and very happy with my purchase. Had for a little over a week now and did about 250 miles already and only because I enjoy driving it. Runs real smooth and handles like a car. The additional height is perfect for someone who has owned 2 sedans in the past. My only gripe is that the wind noise is not blocked completely but given my kind of driving [home, office, weekend groceries and movies], it really doesnt matter to me. I keep it at 60-65 mph most of the time mainly because I love the feel of driving it and I am not in a rush to go anywhere. Ill probably come back with more updates later.

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  My First Honda - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Ed - September 13 - 2:00 am

  I have friends who drive CR-Vs and love them. I researched different cars in its class and got a good deal on this. It does have more road noise than my former car did though the ride and seats are very comfortable. The radio, CD, MP3 system is great and sounds terrific. The interior is roomy and deceiving from the outside. Im looking forward to see how it handles in the snow. Not even 700 miles on it and Im getting 27.5 MPG on the highway.

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  Great little SUV - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Beater - September 4 - 12:51 am

  I have driven this sweet little SUV for 17 months and average 26 to 27 MPG on the highway and around 23 in town. It burns regular gas which is nice, it can comfortably seat 4 adults and hold 4 sets of golf clubs. It hauls my drums, go skiing, its great around town and the highway. I sold my Acura RDX turbo that got 14 mpg around town and burned premium gas. This is so much more economical. The rear seats recline, its all wheel drive when you need it. Its 4 banger engine is peppy. I had after market leather and heated seats added. You cant go wrong with this sweet little SUV! It a great little SUV!

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  Rolling along in my 01 cr-v - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By aileen - August 28 - 5:22 pm

  i love this little cutie, i bought this in 2007 with 75,000 miles for 10k, it now has 11,900 miles on the odometer. its been very reliable for me. i went to Florida and back to pa where i live and ran smooth. i plan on keeping this cutie till it dies.

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  I love my CR-V! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Ben - August 27 - 6:37 pm

  I love my CR-V, its not only great looking but fun to drive. I love the performance it has to offer, and it looks very classy without having to pay the big buck. I would definitely get another CR-V next time Im ready to buy another car.

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  It grows on you - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By MikeCVS18 - August 26 - 8:35 pm

  After 800 miles I am getting the feel of the 180 hp 2.4 L engine and finding it easier to access highways. Very responsive when passing . I am a average 55-65 mph driver. Driver seat broken in and comfortable, but still firm. Interior layout very good. The more I drive the CR-V the more I like it, also the layout on the dashboard nice placement, clear view.

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  still early - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Mike D - August 22 - 4:48 am

  Just got my new CRV-EXL. I left Honda 10 years ago for Lexus and then UGH! Cadillac. Its very early in the game but how could you not love this car? Awesome value, all the equipment I want, (except homelink, 4 auto mirrors and memory seats). Typical Honda, complete all around car. Excellent acceleration, nice handling, perfect combination of firm but not hard and soft but not mushy. Classic Honda fit and finish. Wonderful nav/audio combination. IPod integration is awesome. I could do without the voice command option, too much of a hassle. This car is just the right size. Big enough to fit passengers and cargo and small enough to be economical.

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  282,000 Miles - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Vito - August 18 - 5:59 pm

  I purchased this vehicle 8 years ago with 79,000 miles. I have averaged well over 25k miles per year and have NOT had any major issues. Original engine and transmission. Original A/C compressor blows cold. I have yet to replace the original muffler. I have serviced this vehicle per Hondas specifications with the exception of oil changes. I change oil & filter every 7500 miles.I have never got this kind of reliability & performance in 40 years of owning and driving American built cars. Gas mileage:21-23 city, 25-26 hwy. This vehicle refuses to quit. This is the best vehicle I have EVER owned! I will, without hesitation, purchase another Honda CR-V!

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  Well Rounded Vehicle - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Hondadriver - August 17 - 8:41 pm

  I have had the CRV for a month. I downsized from a Ridgeline (great vehicle). I do more city driving but still needed a little utility. This is my first 4 cylinder. Therefore, I was quite concerned about the power. But, I had the use of a 2008 CRV for a week and had no problems with merging, passing etc. I just need to allow more time. There was no noticeable difference between 166 hp and 180 hp. The vehicle is comfortable and roomy. I am 6-02. It is a well rounded vehicle that does not overly excel or fall short.