Honda CR-V Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.36/5 Average
4,333 Total Reviews
Model Overview:

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:

Showing 3571 through 3580 of 4,333.00
  • Like my new 2016 CR-V - 2016 Honda CR-V
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  • Vibrates but much improved - 2015 Honda CR-V
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    Weve had this car for over a month and I can relate to what people say about the vibration at low speeds and when stopped with engine running. I noticed the vibration when I test drove the car and didnt think much of it then and I still dont. Its worse when the car is in ECO mode. Turn ECO off and drive in Sport mode (higher RPM) and the vibration becomes minimal to non-existent. This CRV drives better than the 2014 model (More responsive in Sport mode, less lean when taking corners) and has better standard features. Its good value too. Averaging about 30 mpg in low traffic city (80%) and highway (20%) driving. Overall we are pleased with it and hope its as reliable as my 2001 Accord

  • Happy Days - 2004 Honda CR-V
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    Fun to drive and reliable. Great for small drivers.

  • 2004 Honda CR-V - 2004 Honda CR-V
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    Peppy, good acceleration, great gas mileage. The swing up back window makes for easy loading of small items without having to open the entire back door, which by the way, has a very large opening. Cargo space in back is plenty big. Location of instrument cluster is easily readible. Standard CD/Cassette player one of the best features. Seats comfortable, but a little stiff.

  • Its a keeper - 2004 Honda CR-V
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    Excellent Honda build quality as usual. Fits my needs for size and look forward to awd during its 1st NH winter. Took it FL with the two kids and had plenty of rear cargo room for our stuff. Highly recommend.

  • cr-v 03 - 2004 Honda CR-V
    By -

    Outside of the disapointing average gas millage, the car is very practical, looks great, is built well, and a lot of fun to drive.

  • What a Nice Vehicle - 2010 Honda CR-V
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    Purchased this vehicle just two weeks ago. Awesome vehicle; Gas mileage went down 1 mpg vs up per manufacturer; EX-L with Navi and backup camera is unbelievable; Hands free Bluetooth for phone is wonderful. The volume on radio actually reduces so instructions can be heard on GPS. Loud and Clear. Volume of radio mutes when you get a phone call so you can hear the conversation over 7 speakers. GPS continues to work and be heard. More horsepower a welcome when accelerating when merging with traffic on interstate highway. Automatic headlight system is a fantastic improvement.

  • Too much expectations - 2005 Honda CR-V
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    Expected much more, but still happy with the choice. Ride is much bumpier than expected. Although otherwise loaded, the vehicle lacks some features available on older and cheaper cars - illuminated vanity mirrors, outside vs. integrated glass antenna. The alloy wheels dont look like such. Steering wheel-mounted controls might look clumsy, but are very convenient actually. A/C is listed as "dual automatic" - its just the regular one.

  • "SEE OUR V" - 2005 Honda CR-V
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    This is my second Honda, (still have my first one--10 years old and still going strong). Wanted a larger vehicle, but nothing too big. Extensively researched the Equinox, RAV-4, Vue, Sorrento, Escape, Tribute, Highlander and Liberty, but options, fuel economy, reliability and price kept me coming back to the CRV. The vehicle comes fully loaded in the base price of the SE model. Most other companies charge extra for, "packages," that can be added to the vehicle. Fuel economy is much better than most other SUV models. Very fun to drive. Lots of pickup for a 4 cylinder and tackles hills without a problem.

  • Terrible Vibration! - 2015 Honda CR-V
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    Buyer beware. There is a major flaw with the transmission on the new CRV. The dealer and Honda have said that they know it is there, but they have no idea how to fix it. At a stop with foot on brake the car vibrates terribly. It feels as if it will die on the spot. And it is bad enough to rattle your bones. Google Vibration in 2015 CRV to see how bad this is across the country! It does not instill confidence in the rest of the car. Although Honda and the dealer sympathize, they are offering no help in getting it fixed. When you buy a new car you expect it to be flawless. Im a long time Honda owner and am Super disappointed.

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