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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  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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  This is the best small SUV bar none - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By brad - March 24 - 6:16 pm

  Just enough room for everything and just small enough to go anywhere. Honda hit the interior on the head with a different but fun design. This is one of the purchases I will never regret. It even holds its value, not to mention worth its weight in gold as far as gas prices go.

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  Great Investment - 1997 Honda CR-V
  By StartingAFamily - March 22 - 12:58 pm

  I have had my CRV for nearly three years and have not had a single problem or even a hiccup. The value in three years has only went down several hundred dollars! My wife and I love our CRV. Go Honda!

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  Fun to drive - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By gsafis - March 20 - 10:00 am

  I used to own 2000 Mitsubishi Montero sport and I traded in for the CRV. Good handling, acceleration, braking and very comfortable in long trips. When I get to a complete stop and I go reverse then I apply the breaks I hear a clunking noise. I called the several dealers and they told me that is a Honda new break design to increase the break ventilation. I am not sure if I buy that explanation, but again I do not know any one else that has the same car. I would appreciate any feedback. Overall great SUV for the money and fun to drive. I totally recommend it.

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  Navigation System - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Brenda Millet - March 20 - 7:10 am

  I love my Honda SUV. The programming of the navigation system is very challenging. I am yet to understand it. I use my Waze for navigating. It handles very well on the road. It is very comfortable.

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  Love my CRV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Carol - March 19 - 9:13 am

  Its been a very dependable vehicle. Engine is great, biggest expense are the struts. I love this vehiclw

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  Love my CRV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Carol - March 19 - 9:13 am

  Its been a very dependable vehicle. Engine is great, biggest expense are the struts. I love this vehiclw

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  Highly versatile - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Mark - March 18 - 5:46 pm

  The versatility of this Midsize SUV is amazing. Ive done some advanced off-roading (although not recommended) because I wanted to see what the SUV could handle and I was very impressed. The mileage on this SUV separates it from other competitors. I average around 25 mpg and with the cost of gas in SoCal near 2.50 right now Im not disappointed with its lack of V6 power. Very recommended. In its first year I have had zero problems. Thanks Honda.

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  Love my cr-v - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By mvidac - March 17 - 6:43 pm

  As a 3 time Honda owner (Accords and a Civic), I decided to take the plunge into the world of the small SUV. Boy am I glad I did! I will never go back! Excellent milage. Looks great, feels great, tons of space! I love my little baby!!!

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  1st The bad and then the good. - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By S. A. - March 17 - 1:08 am

  After only 3 mo. the foot operated lift gate quit operating and needs to go into the shop for repair. This model has the top of the line stereo system and my $150.00 boom box puts it to shame. Extremely dissatisfied. Had a 2001 Toyota Camry and it far outperformed this unit. On a scale of 1-10 I would rate it as a 4. The shift mechanism is a bit cheap as has way too much plastic and is a bit wobbly. Not nice and smooth operating. Extremely pleased with the quality of the rest of the interior. Very comfy seats, sits up nice thus providing good view. So far the traction with AWD really seems good in snow. Interior is quiet at highway speeds. Wind noise is quite minimal.