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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  2006 CR-V EX - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By mountain goat - August 20 - 4:53 pm

  i love my cute Honda CR-V. It handles like a dream. Has incredibly smooth transmission. Acceleration is commendable for such a small engine. It gives exactly what it claims: 21mpg city driving; about 28 for highway. The available cargo room is amazing. The CR- V is stylish, but it has a lot of competition from the copycats.

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  The best new car Ive ever OWNED!! - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Leeluu8 - August 20 - 2:07 pm

  This is my 5th Honda. Id like to think of myself as a loyal consumer but Honda out did themselves with this years 2018 CR-V. Not only does it look pretty it is amazingly sturdy,quiet, and comfortable(fun) to drive. I previously owned a 2016 HR-V. A wonderful car but the CR-V is definitely a step up. All of the safety features and the bells and whistles make it a great value for your money.

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  goodie - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By meme321 - August 20 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Drove it all over the place, no problems at all. Would definitely buy another.

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  Great Small SUV - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By JD - August 16 - 7:46 pm

  Purchased the CRV-EX because I wanted a sunroof. I love the car! When I started looking for an SUV, I didnt want to look at the CRV because of the gear shift placement. The moment I sat in the car I fell in love with it. The interior design is sophisticated looking. I find it comfortable, much more roomy than the RAV-4. I average between 20-23 miles a gallon (City-highway) with fairly frequent hill climbing in the winter.

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  Mikes review - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By hlm - August 16 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Only problem in 3 years has been a squeaky door and a repain to the drivers arm rest.

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  Good car -- I miss it - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By cynara - August 14 - 2:00 am

  This was a great little car-- We used it for in-town and short (one-day) trips. Loved the comfort for all passengers, but my 68" hubby did have to scrunch his legs just a bit (he still liked driving it). Great for groceries, luggage and grandchildren. I know some speak about road noise, but we had no problem with it. Now that I need a new car, I immediately went to the CRVs. Checked ALL the other makes and models out, narrowed it to CRV or Element (more leg room for the big guy) although both of us loved the CRV, he did spend a lot of time with not much space for those long legs.

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  New CR-V is a GEM! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By aboyer - August 13 - 8:33 am

  The redesigned CR-V is an incredible deal. I started out looking at small wagons, but when I discovered I could buy a CR-V for just a few dollars more than the cost of a new Ford Focus wagon, I converted from being a long-time wagon driver to a new compact suv driver. What a wonderful vehicle!

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  FINALLY, Honda got the CRV RIGHT! - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By madeinmilwaukee - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted a CRV, but never liked how they looked. They were very boxy and the interior looked very cheap/basic. Now, in the 2002 CRV they mastered perfection. I wouldnt trade my CRV for a Lexus or BMW SUV. I think the CRV is strong competition for the more expensive luxury SUVs. I will drive this car as long as it will allow me. With Hondas reputation, that will be much more than 10 years from now. HONDA BEST INVESTMENT I EVER MADE!

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  Disappointment - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By beube - August 12 - 2:00 am

  This auto is a disappointment in view of the repair bills on a low mileage auto. It is not solid and has a noisy effect on the road. The gas cap sensitivity with "check engine" lights is infuriating. I will switch to another and better quality vehicle at the next trade. I have owned this car for 4.5 years purchased from dealer.

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  Car feels great - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Happy Owner - August 11 - 8:10 pm

  Everything you need, nothing you dont, and for a very good price for the list of safety features, including lots of air bags, vehicle stability assist. Excellent interior space and utility. The 4 cylinder feels just adequate for the size of vehicle while maintaining good gas mileage. 5 speed transmission that is very smooth.