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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  Safe car for family! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By MLopez - April 5 - 6:46 pm

  I recently had a major car accident in my crv and thankfully due to the stability of this vehicle myself and my three children only have bruises, and some back and neck pain to show. our vehicle was hit between the driver and rear passenger doors and did a complete rollover as well as a 360 degree spin before coming to a stop at a brick wall. The vehicle was totalled however I would definitely recommend this vehicle for anyone with a family to own due to how safe and secure we were! I will be purchasing honda again due to the reliability, and safety of their vehicles.

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  super - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Constance Brault - April 3 - 3:45 am

  Have driven many different makes over the years. Wasnt sure about the Honda but it was rated number one and I can see why.

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  I just love it.... - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jjspringer - April 2 - 2:00 am

  After months of research and a couple weeks of test driving, the CR-V won hands down. I have really enjoy my CR- V. It has get up and go when needed and handles great. The ride is smooth and comfortable. The 60/40 split rear seat is very convient and easy to access. I love the 6 disc-CD changer location making it easily accessible. The compartments and cup holders are in abundance. I did not like the fabric of the seats and had them replaced with leather seats. Made a world of difference and is easier to clean. You get more than you pay for with the CR- V, great investment.

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  Honda CR-V exl - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Rich Black - April 1 - 4:12 am

  Great car (so far) only have 600miles. Like it a lot. Had a Civic before. In and out was a pain for the Civic also pickup was marginal. The CRV solves all that and is a better ride. Go get one!

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  Not really xm ready - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By anthony - March 31 - 6:13 am

  I love my CR-V, I really do, but Honda left a bad taste in my mouth with the "xm ready" feature. The advertising as well as the OWNERS MANUAL make it seem like you just call up XM to activate your radio, the radio even has an xm button on it. You do have to call XM to activate it, but you cant call untill you have them install the $539 xm receiver.

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  Cannot TOW on the ground! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By James White - March 30 - 11:11 am

  From the original CRV thru 2014 these vehicles could be towed four wheels on the ground. NO LONGER! The new transmission will not allow the CRV to be towed with four wheels on the ground!

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  Long time, first time - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Matt From DC - March 29 - 3:44 pm

  I bought the 2010 CRV new after owning a 2004 CRV and I think it was a very prudent and practical purchase. Outside the original tires that were complete trash, everything else has held up great and no AC issues like the 2004 CRV had. It lags in the acceleration department as others have mentioned, which is disappointing given the gas mileage you get from the car which is just ok (25mpg in mixed driving). The paint is ok, much better than the 2004 CRV and otehr Hondas I have owned but I also make sure to give it a good waxing twice a year and generally keep it clean. The inside is pretty great, I have never had issues with plastics breaking like someone else mentioned, but I also try to take care of the vehicle. Cloth seating has held up great, still looks like new. The carpets are all great because I have all weather mats, and I love the captains chairs for the long rides. I drive this vehicle on long trips a few times a year and it is a comfortable and outstanding long range vehicle IMO. I too like the folding tray in the center council and am sad Honda got rid of this. It allows for additional storage and the cup holders and tray is in the exact right spot. The 2004 CRV had a ton of cubby spaces, this version has less and the ones below the radio are somewhat useless. Storage though is great, I often haul things and the rear and front headroom/legroom is great. Mechanically the car has held up extremely well, kind of the main reason you buy Hondas right? Styling is nice IMO, I like it better than the newer versions and about the same as the old boxy design. Overall this is a great value vehicle and I think Ive now had it longer than any other vehicle I have ever owned. It has retained its value well also, so if I ever decide to trade it in I know Ill get more than someone who bought another brand of mini SUV. I dont plan on getting rid of it anytime soon though, Ill keep it another five years or so most likely.

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  Favorite New Car - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By AT - March 28 - 11:26 am

  Just purchased the CRV EX-L and am loving it! Great performance on our windy mountain roads and fun to drive. Went all out with this one the EX-L model and it is a luxurious interior.

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  1998 Honda CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By CIDPUSA - March 27 - 5:13 am

  THIS IS A DRIVERS CAR, Independent 4 wheel suspension. 4 wheel drive go anywhere. Easy to park and superb views.

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  1998 Honda CRV - 1998 Honda CR-V
  By CIDPUSA - March 27 - 5:13 am

  THIS IS A DRIVERS CAR, Independent 4 wheel suspension. 4 wheel drive go anywhere. Easy to park and superb views.