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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  Very dissappointed - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Katinka2420 - September 10 - 3:55 pm

  I bought my very first new Honda and everything went wrong with it rotors, starter, emergency brake was never even hooked up. Every time I had to get its scheduled maintenance I didnt have my vechicle for few days due to mechanical probs. The civic w/ 227,000 miles I traded in was more reliable. I just recently got rid of it because Honda Corp. was willing to do NOTHING to help me with my issues. Very disappointed, always loved honda, had to switch to Toyota.

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  Another great Honda - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Matt.N - September 4 - 4:00 am

  I am bias, love Honda, 6 of them so far and 2nd CRV, they are reliable, easy to maintenance, best of all the handling is of one the best for "low" end vehicle. Tested drive Hyundai Tucson, Santa fe, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX5 (bad), and Subaru Outback which better handling a bit but slower acceleration. I like how Honda hugs the curve at high speed, responsive. Test drive like this to see how the vehicle can help avoiding accident, as expected, turning radius is small. The vehicle can steer itself through gentle curve at highway speed, even at late dawn. 30MPG @ 80 MPH, 28MPG @ mix city/hwy. Capless gas tank is cool, hope it is ok for a long time. 25700 CRV EX AWD + 800 dealer fee (makeup profit fee) 100 doc fee + state mandatory fee

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  2016 Honda CR-V Touring - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Kristy Miller - September 4 - 12:48 am

  Love this vehicle. Very quiet ride, good interior space and "peppy" engine. I am 5 2" short and the seats adjust well, except for the head rest which has no adjustment. The on screen computer/navigation system doesnt seem to be very intuitive. Sound system is pretty good. I do like the keyless entry and automatic trunk open and close. Insurance Institute for highway safety rated this vehicle as "Good" (highest rating) along with a great resale value. I traded in my 2004 Chevy Trailblazer for this vehicle and other than the size and weight difference I am very pleased with this vehicle. 9/12/2017 update Still LOVE my CR-V the only trouble I have had is a 7.5 fuse blown that took out the back lights, dash lights and hi-beams. Replaced fuse and its good to go!

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  The winner and STILL miniute champion - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By icvci - August 31 - 2:00 am

  How can you go wrong? Great MPG for a ute. Very flexible interior. Solid build. We didnt even consider this vehicle until we test drove it. I was ready to get a RAV4 and immediately changed my mind when I saw the interior.

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  I couldnt be more pleased... - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By chuck - August 29 - 7:36 pm

  I travel the country a lot and have it in all terrain. You name it. Never off-road though. It has been completely reliable.

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  VTC actuator makes this car stink - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By rconarroe - August 25 - 12:15 pm

  Same problem as the other reviewer. Grinding noise at every start is sooo irritating. Honestly, if someone wanted to trade me for a 2013 Toyota (something) right now I would. The fact that Honda plays dumb and wont fix the problem they created is disappointing.

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  Should have bought a Highlander - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By darnoc54 - August 25 - 10:00 am

  Having second thoughts. Brakes clunk, seat rocks, wheel jerks to right on acceleration. Not what I expected from Honda. Thinking I should have bought a Highlander or Rav.

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  more utility than sport - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By hondadriver - August 25 - 10:00 am

  Its okay. Front seat leg room is not that great. Seats are not very supportive, and interior materials seem cheap and unattractive - especially in the saddle.

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  Do This , Be Happy - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By Billy Clevenger - August 19 - 10:26 pm

  Just a few words to the wise.Change the transmission fluid every 30,0000 miles or so being its cheap because there is no filter. I waited and transmission started acting up after 60,000 miles. Also be sure to check cabin filter. After 7 years it was terrible. It is located behind the glove box. This is a VG vehicle and I recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable used car. Fun to drive and like a cat in snow. Go Honda !

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  Piece of Junk - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Brooke - August 19 - 9:03 am

  Extremely underpowered, and the AWD doesnt work. The shifter is extremely akward to operate, and often gets stuck. Aside from the decent gas mileage, I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone and am looking to get rid of mine.