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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  Poor Gas Mileage and Rattles - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Konnie - February 22 - 7:15 pm

  I drove a 2000 CRV-SE for 4.5 years and traded for one of the first 2005 models off the line. I am sorry I traded the 2000. Gas mileage never comes close to the promised mileage on the sticker and is much worse than 2000 model. The car is plagued with rattles that the dealer cant fix. The ride is stiff and uncomfortable. XM radio is nice, but the $500 extra cost is misleading in sales brochure that says "XM ready". Heated seats are nice, as are the radio controls mounted on the steering wheel. There is less space on the floor between the front seats than the 2000 model. Cant fit my Longaberger roadtrip basket where it sat in the 2000.

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  Always in the repair shop - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By ddebari - February 20 - 6:11 pm

  This is perhaps the worse vehicle I have ever owned, In three years it has been in the service shop to replace the entire air conditioner unit. The last time occured in September 05 when the compressor exploded for the second time. Honda took the dash and front end of the car apart and then could not obtain a new compressor. the car remained in the shop for two weeks. When asked if they would extend the warranty on the AC, Honda denied the request and said it could not happen a third time. When it does I will sue DC Honda and Honda motors as many others have had the same problem.

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  My experience - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Rusty - February 20 - 3:00 pm

  Finally Honda has a good a/c unit. Great car but then need to get rid of the black only interior, shows the dirt to easily. Gas mileage is not that good around town.

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  7000 miles and happy - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By review by George - February 19 - 4:15 pm

  When shopping for a vehicle I wanted one that was very versatile and got decent gas mileage. This CR-V does just that. Most of my driving is around town so my 23-25 mpg is OK and is higher on the highway. There is very slight torque steer to the right only on acceleration but it isnt a problem. Ive been able to carry my bike laying inside and at other times much stuff from home supply stores or lawn and garden stores.

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  MomMachine - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Leilani - February 15 - 1:51 am

  Decent so far, reliable Honda SUV roomy enough, comfortable, AWD great for east coast where we just had 3feet of snow. Its not fancy, its not stripped down, its just right for everyday driving and commuting. My last Hionda vehicle ( Civic) going strong still 80,000 miles no issues, hoping the same for this 2016

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  2003CRV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By qadeb - February 13 - 12:04 am

  Great SUV. Fun to drive, well designed. Love the 4WD on demand. Has saved us in snow, ice, & mud. Holds plenty of family and gear. Tows small boat ok. Never a problem except Air compressor blew up at 50,000 mi. Whole system had to be replaced. Honda provided parts but cost $700 in dealer labor. Have heard this is a problem for others.

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  Never wanted a crv - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Anugent - February 12 - 6:26 pm

  I drove everything out there, mazda, ford, toyota, Hyundai... didnt even look at the 16 crv... freind had one... not interested. Then saw a bit online about the 17... so i thought i would wait till it came out before buying... all the pro reviews were exceptional.. well the day it was available in the us i drove one. And... bought it. I love it. Beautiful car. Extraordinary interior. Turbo is awesome. Technology is kinda mind blowing... love the auto headlights. Android auto works extremely well. Today.. i got 38 mpg on a 70 mile trip... averaging 32 combined. Awesome car.

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  honda is the best - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By jim winslow - February 12 - 5:52 pm

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  honda is the best - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By jim winslow - February 12 - 5:52 pm

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  honda is the best - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By jim winslow - February 12 - 5:52 pm