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:

• 

  Great ride - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By crv-er - October 8 - 5:43 pm

  Took a hit and traded in our 2004 Pilot, unfortunate timing to trade a larger SUV. Love the CR-V so far. Just did a 1000 mile trip (avg 27 mpg), XM radio got lots of use. Smooth ride, plenty of room for the kids and all our stuff. Slower pickup taking a little getting used too, but still a very peppy ride. Very happy with our choice, had to look long and hard for our favorite Taffeta White. Wish the front seats extended farther out for more support under the legs. Floor mats could be better quality, already matting and shedding a bit. Wish the back windows went all the way down, we didnt realize this until after purchase. Overall great vehicle, plan to drive for a long time.

• 

  Downsizing to Save Cash - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Bob L - October 8 - 4:23 pm

  Got real tired of visiting gas stations with my Jeep Grand Cherokee and decided to try the 2008 Honda CR-V. Great handling and very fun to drive. I dont miss my Jeep one bit. Its a tiny SUV with lots of heart. Gas mileage has been as high as 28 mpg, but average has been 25 mpg, not great but acceptable. If you want better fuel economy buy a Hybrid something or a Civic. Interior is good quality, spacious, and comfortable. The rear storage compartment behind the rear passengers is divided in two sections by a removable upper shelf. This design leaves a lot to be desired and can be very annoying when trying to load a large object. Overall we have enjoyed this mini SUV and highly recommend it.

• 

  62,000+ miles and no problems! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By bvf925 - October 6 - 7:35 pm

  I purchased my CR-V in 2005 after trading in a 98 Subaru Forester that was starting to give me some headaches. Immediately, I realized I was in a much better, high-end vehicle. I have not had any problems at all with it. Just replaced the battery earlier this year, and Im looking for my 3rd set of tires (current set of Tiger Paws are lousy in snow). I will need rear rotors & pads soon, but thats it so far! The gas mileage is fantastic, theres plenty of room for 3 adults in the backseat, tons of cargo room, the exterior looks great - no paint chipping or fade like my old Subaru. Looked at a new 10 Forester just for fun & the interior looks cheap. My CR-V is a Lexus in comparison.

• 

  Fun to drive! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Happy Honda Owner - October 6 - 12:55 pm

  With over 10,000 miles, most cross-country with A.C. blasting, the CRV has averaged 30 mpg highway and 25 city! Love the interior lighting. The headrest is a bit uncomfortable on long drives, and for me, there is a "blind side" in the right rear. The steering wheel has a nice form, and I have grown to love the stereos volume control located on it. The car has a tight seal and I feel safe it it. Wish there were some console and not just fold down...seems a bit of a waste of space. A.C. and heater work quickly. Handles well in the rain and has small turning radius. In cruise control, up hills, it doesnt skip a beat! Test drove Subaru, Saturn, Toyota, and Volvo (+$20,000!). Loved the CRV!

• 

  Only a couple hundred miles in, but loving it! - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By LoveMyHondas! - October 6 - 11:26 am

  So far, so great with the new car! Its incredibly comfortable inside and we feel safe and secure driving it. We love it so far (after couple hundred miles)! Its the nicest car we have ever owned and our second Honda. We love Hondas!

• 

  Love my Honda - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Dawn - October 4 - 4:06 pm

  I have never felt as safe in a car as I do in this one. It never slips on the snowy Vermont roads. It handles very nicely, there is plenty of room inside, and nothing ever goes wrong with it. I wouldnt trade it for anything (except maybe a newer CR-V).

• 

  Needs a bit of improvement? - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By jmcgarv - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I like much about the CRV. Its powerful enough for me, quiet, and it has a superior ride.

• 

  So far its great!! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Dee - October 1 - 11:00 am

  I replaced my Subaru Outback with the Honda because I wanted more interior room but wanted to maintain good gas mileage. I was concerned about how the Honda would handle in bad weather (the Subaru was excellent). I have to say I have been pleasantly surprised. The Honda is very surefooted in the worst of weather. The interior is very roomy and the car is beautiful to look at. Overall, I am very pleased.

• 

  Just picked it up and LOVE it - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Kristin - September 30 - 9:53 pm

  I just picked this car up tonight and already am in love. I just came off a lease of a Nissan Murano (2006), and while I enjoyed the Murano, I love my Honda. This is the first Honda I have owned. I did plenty of research before leasing this SUV. I looked at the Rav 4, Rogue, Escape, etc. The reviews on the CR-V blew the competition out of the water. I read all of the previous reviews, and again, just picked it up 4 hours ago, so at this point I have no complaints about anything. Looking forward to 36 months of BLISS in this car. LOVE IT!!!

• 

  Satisfied owner - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By SamSim - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I wanted a tall car with ground clearance, not an SUV. Thats what a CRV is. 4WD actually works very well, I have driven on beach and poorly graded, muddy roads and performance was better than expected. Its effective because it kicks in so fast, you never slow down. Fuel economy is exactly what the sticker says, usually 1/2mpg better. Good 5-speed, perfect engine, very smooth. Not my last Honda.