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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  Quality, Quality, Quality! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By ROB - November 3 - 7:01 pm

  Car quality is exceptional. The engine is okay, but could use a few more horses. Very comfortable.

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  my CRV - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Steven - November 2 - 7:06 pm

  My 2005 CRV is a reasonably economical car and a pleasure to drive. Having a family, I place safety and reliability ahead of looks and comfort, but the CRV is, for its price, excellent in all these areas.

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  My new CRV - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Tallperson - October 31 - 10:00 am

  We purchased the new CRV for our growing family (new baby in July!). We were sold on the safety features and the numerous extras that came with the EX model. It passed its first test when we had to stuff a dresser in it, the seats flipped up beautifully and everything fit! The 6-disc cd changer is a bit noisy as it switches and I would love it if Honda would put in heated seats (like a comparably priced Subaru does). And why no daytime running headlights? We are happy with the acceleration and power. We looked at the Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe and the Jeep Liberty. Honda was the best value for space, options and price all-around.

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  honda crv 2002 - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By screwdriver - October 31 - 10:00 am

  i have this vehicle for 6 months now and it has fulfilled my needs so far. for an SUV its size - i must say its value is hard to beat. i considered the Rav 4 , ford escape and mazda tribute - all of which i IMO did not compare to the total value of the CRV.

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  GOOD - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By REG B - October 31 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS A NICE SUV. THE LEGROOM IS A LITTLE SHORT BUT I CA WORK WITH IT ME BEING (6FOOT) AND ALL I STILL LOVE IT. MORE POWER AND GERAT PERFORAMANCE.

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  our Honda - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By AB_ALL_DA_WAY - October 30 - 3:02 am

  A reliable vehicle, but does not win any awards for its appearance. I haul my drums around in it along with people, so it is a functional vehicle. No bells and whistles, just a functional car. Dont expect it to be like a luxury SUV, because it is quite simple and plain. I would recomend it to anyone who want a functional, reliable car/SUV.

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  Best suv - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Jane S - October 28 - 1:23 pm

  The gas milage is the best of ANY suv out there. It handles great! very comfortable drivers seat and passenger seats. Be sure to look back left and right. The camera in all of the new cars show straight back. Watch for cars and pedestrians.

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  great Vehicle - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Mr. Marsch - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Ive had two of the vehicles. The car is so fun to drive. We dont do too much long distance, but on a long trip it was fine. Got best tires available and that seemed to be a plus. It is just great and fun and economical and holds 4 people with plenty of room and lots of baggage or purchases. No complaints on our 2004.

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  My first SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Sam D - October 27 - 10:00 am

  We are just through trading an Acura TL for a small suv. It is not as robust a performer as we are used to. However it is very practical and roomy. Also we can get in and out easier and we are not as stiff and tired when we arrive at our destination. Gas mileage seems to be 23 town and 25 highway.We are older.

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  WOw what an SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Nakdog - October 27 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful car, and fun to drive...I would buy it again.