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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  New Owner - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By harrisonc2000 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Recently purchased the CRV (2nd honda bought). Only had it a week and I love it. The ride is so smooth, and power is wonderful on the highway. And the purchase was a breeze (Jay Wolfe Honda of Kansas City, MO)

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  Great value - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By highsoc42 - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Unbelievably roomy - feels much bigger than it is. Plenty of cargo room and a very stable ride thanks to independent suspensions. Even on the LX, theres a few more bells & whistles than what youll really need. If Honda can keep the design and the weight balanced correctly for a CR-V Hybrid, without sacrificing its performance, bring it on!

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  My Honda - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Suferdudejs - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Best on the market, for your money. Very reliable, great fuel economy and a blast to operate.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Hagen - January 24 - 10:00 am

  As has been my experience purchasing other new Hondas, this one was in perfect condition. No rattles, no broken controls, etc. We opted to not get AWD since we never have to drive in snow or ice, but we did opt for the side air bags. It is fun to drive, ample pick-up merging, and very roomy. Ive purchased the cover for the rear storage area, and the shopping bag holder (from an Internet supplier at discount prices) and theyre great to have. Ive driven about 1000 miles so far and have no complaints whatsoever. Makes me never want to buy anything else again but Hondas! By the way, Id read some discussion about the rear door opening from the driver

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  defective alternator - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By jbg - January 24 - 10:00 am

  went on short trip to michigan nonstop and when restarted 15 minutes later had total electrical failure. Honda dealership in benton harbor was of no help insolving problem.They said i left lights on and jumped car.My dealer in countryside il found problem after leaving car run for several hours.Hope this is only problem i have since i really enjoy this auto.

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  CRV is Combustable Recreational Vehicle - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Robert Brewington - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Tight in the Drivers seat. Now CRV is Combustable Recreational Vehicle. If we had know this Design MFG FLAW we would not have bought it now. And Honda HQ says you have to have the basic oil change done at there dealerships??? HUH am I missing something here... the vehicle was rated great ..how did everyone but our Government miss the PINTO like flaw..?

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  Back to Honda - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Consumer2007 - January 20 - 7:36 pm

  I was searching for a 2007 Honda or Toyota as replacement to my Volvo 850 since June in anticipation of expensive repairs. After a few twists and turns settled on a 2008 CR-V. I have driven less than 600 miles, my impressions are: Rear styling is similar to my Volvo 850 and its side profile is growing on me. The glacier blue looks good in many different lightings. Curve handling is surprisingly good, the bright headlights make me feel safe with night time driving. Seat is reasonably supportive for hours of driving. Everything feels solid and no rattling. Road and wind noises are minimal especially with audio on. Easy ingress and ingress. A viable alternative to a luxury wagon.

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  Great For the Money - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By jbjudkins - January 20 - 1:33 am

  I bought this car for my wife earlier this year. So far, we love it. It was the first Japanese car in the family and I dont know if I will ever go back to American. It is by far the best valued small SUV and most economical to drive. There is a ton of room and it rides very nice. Another added bonus...it is cheaper to insure than my 2006 Pontiac Vibe. I didnt expect that.

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  Two Thumbs Up - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By RLM - January 20 - 12:16 am

  Initially, my wife and I thought the RAV-4 was our favorite, but after test driving the CR-V and comparing features and price, there is really no comparison (unless you think the V-6 option on the RAV-4 is important.) We found the CR-V to be quieter, interior much more refined and plenty of power from the 4 cylinder engine. My wife enjoys having space for her purse on the center floor beneath the gear shifter pod. Have driven only about 400 miles and the mpg seems be close to advertised numbers. The vehicle has a firm, solid feel on the road and visibility is excellent. Im thinking that this is one vehicle that we will be keeping for awhile. Wish it had auto headlights, otherwise very happy

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  SWLA 08 CR-V - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By kipnita - January 18 - 10:30 pm

  Adequate space, super economy, not as comfortable as my prior vehicle (Chevy Avalanche) and somewhat load on certain pavement surfaces but overall a very pleasing, efficient CUV. I cross shopped with the RAV4 (too spartan in base trim - sunroof not available and MUCH more expensive in sport and limited trims when comparably equipped), and Ford Escape (throwback to yesteryear). Overall, I am very pleased with this purchase.