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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  Satisfied - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By Ann - January 27 - 4:47 pm

  I bought my 1999 CRV new and have been very satisfied with its reliability and functionality. I haul around a dog, groceries, sports equipment and kids with backpacks. I cant think of another car that is better suited for what I need. I owned two Camrys prior to this CRV and I can say for sure that the CRVs interior features are poorer quality than Toyota and here are some examples: stereo was horrible in the CRV but good in the Camry, air conditioning is horrible in the CRV but awesome in the Camry. The CRV doesnt have much "get up and go" if I need to accelerate quickly from a stop. I LOVE the AWD feature and it is fun to drive in the snow.

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  great car under 30K - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Pat - January 26 - 5:46 pm

  I just purchased a Honda CRV EX and I am very happy with my purchase. A great car to zip around town and has great mpg on the HWY I am getting 29 mpg on the highway. It handles very well and the view is excellent. There doesnt seem to be many blind spots. Its built very well. The doors are solid and the interior is well designed. There is a lot of room in the car and plenty of storage areas. There is plenty of leg room in the rear seats and could fit two car seats very comfortably. Its a great value for the price!!

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  luv that new "V" - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By rhodyv - January 26 - 5:23 pm

  I bought this vehicle because I was too cramped in a regular car--causing medical problems from my long commute. Indeed it is a great balance between the added room and comfort and the lack of the need for a private oil well that comes with some SUVs! Nice exterior look, and a great, smooth drive.The interior is a bit plain and "trucky"-- some curvier lines in the dashboard and more luxurious cloth for the upholstery might solve this problem. I bought the AWD for added assurance in bad weather---drove very well on flooded roads I encountered just after purchase--need to wait til next year for snow. Despite the good mileage for an SUV, it could use a bigger gas tank.

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  Just Right! Could use more! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Richard - January 25 - 11:56 am

  Have had the CRV for three weeks, and drove 1700 miles so far. Comfortable front seats, decent back seat with three sections that individually recline. I carry two children booster seats on the outboard sides and a third child that doesnt require a booster in the center. Not a rocket, does not need more power for sensible drivers. First tank yielded 25.5 mpg, subsequent tanks yield 26.1 mpg in 70/30 mix of highway and city. Like the trip computer and maintenance minder system. Surprised to see no coin holder. Center console has a place for CD Changer on the Navigation Model that is not accessible for storage on EX-L model. The LX and EX have the folding tray.

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  Great car, lousy tires - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By ibjc - January 25 - 2:00 am

  Great car, lousy tires, terrible traction in snow and rain. Poor tread wear and noisy. Would recomend having dealer change them before buying.

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  A great value - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By mjvkag - January 21 - 10:00 am

  A lot of SUV for the money. Its solidly built and very enjoyable to drive. Ive only had the car 2 days and have received several compliments on it from strangers in the parking lot!

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  1999 Honda CR-V - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By kjipaulson - January 20 - 1:47 pm

  I have had my 1999 Honda CR-V for about 5 years. My main complaint about it is has no get up and go. When I hit the gas, it is pretty sluggish. I put some aftermarket things in it to improve gas mileage. It is a very reliable car, though, and it gets me where I want to go.

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  Great buy for the money - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Thomas Gottlick - January 20 - 5:47 am

  The car is well worth the price.

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  New Owner of Used CRV - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By New2hondas - January 19 - 8:23 pm

  Recently bought a used EX in great condition and 68k miles. Runs like a champ and very easy to drive. The quality is so top rate - and maybe the previous owner took good care of the car - that it scarcely feels used. Now I know when people say that Honda builds good vehicles.

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  No regrets! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By amcarroll - January 18 - 10:00 am

  At first glance, I loved the 2002. The CR-V is a hoot to drive and compared to my two previous Accords, the power is fine for me. Dont need to tow with it, Ill let my Chevy truck handle that. The CR-V is a daily commuter in all types of weather and a weekend mountain hopper. At 600 miles, no problems to mention(knock on wood) and figured milage out at just at 25 mpg. Very satisfied with my choice.