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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  Best car - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By cheliepoo - February 27 - 12:27 am

  I love it.

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  First Honda, Seat belt trouble - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By mmc24 - February 23 - 1:43 pm

  So far, Im just getting used to my first Honda after 20 years of driving Pontiac Grand Prix. This vehicle of course does not have the luxury of a Grand Prix but it does have many fine qualities, one of which is the AWD which I really like. However, I have twin 5yr old grandchildren and it is almost impossible to get their car seats buckled in the back seat. The belt will not latch without the most extreme effort as the buckle part extending from the seat recedes when you try to latch it. As I pick them up from school everyday this has become a serious problem as well as the nuisance of getting your clothes dirty from leaning over the door rim to try to reach the buckle.

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  Substandard Tires on CRV LX - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By ohiomarine1 - February 18 - 2:28 pm

  I took delivery of a CRV LX and noticed when I got home that the tires were substandard....Continental. This LX was not on the lot at anytime only other CRVs but not LXs. The other CRVs had Michelins or Goodyear tires so I assumed.. The dealer and Honda America were not interested in trading out the tires even if I paid the difference which is amazing to me.

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  Defective CRV 2013 - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By customer126 - February 14 - 6:50 pm

  This car lacks power, it is nice looking but it came defective. at 500 needed to be repair for defective components that made the check engine light go on, then i found water in the trunk. The car needed to be sealed and after the next rain, there is water again. Not recommended!! Although the sticker says it may give you 25-30 miles per gallon, it never does. The max was 22 mpg

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  A lot of things to like except transmission/power - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By carmen22 - February 13 - 6:56 pm

  I have owned my 2013 for 3 weeks. I love the interior. Its roomy and well designed and the back seats fold down easy for hauling. Im doing mostly in town driving and getting a solid 22 miles/gallon. The seats I would give this car 5 stars except that it recently started making a rattle noise when shifting between 1st and 2nd gear. Dealer says its normal. Sometimes power is an issue when needing to surge onto the interstate.

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  Saved my sons life! - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By bjb22269 - February 9 - 7:05 am

  Last weekend my son had an accident with my 2011 Honda CRV due to speed and road conditions and totalled my car. He hit a rock wall at a high rate of speed and rolled end for end. AND WALKED AWAY!! He is 66" and weighs 250lbs. Only had scratchs and a bump on his head. This was is destroyed but it saved my sons life. He owns a 2002 Honda Civic and if he was in that he would be dead. I am VERY pleased and happy with this car and how safe it really is. He hit the wall so hard that the left front wheel, tire, axle, and shock came out in one piece. Alot of people (me included) look at the "pretty" of a car and dont really think about the safety. Well built car!! Thank you Honda!

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  Problematic transmission - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By stevej757 - February 7 - 2:08 pm

  Weve had the CR-V for about 5 months & ever since the car was delivered it has vibrated between 1800 & 2200 RPM. It is most noticeable between 55 & 65 MPH. At low speeds there is no vibration, but once the transmission shifts into high, then the car rumbles. Ive brought it back to the dealer 3 times, & they acknowledge the problem & say that it is charachteristic of the CR-V. One of the service team leaders said the problem is also on the Accord 4 cylinder. It just appears that the transmission shifts too soon. Its really frustrating. Dont be in the passing lane if youre in Econ mode & accellerating up a hill! The non-highway mileage averages around 24 mpg.

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  CRV Road Noise - 2011 Honda CR-V
  By dirigo1 - February 5 - 8:35 pm

  Had problem with Continental tires on my 2011 CRV. At 10,000 miles a road noise started that was terrible. I put up with it longer than I should have. I was told by the dealer that all four tires needed replacing at only 24,000 miles. In reading several forums CRV road noise is common due to lack of insulation. Neither Honda or Continental would assist. They both have to be knowledgable about their issues. Unless Honda has improved sound insulation on the car underside of the new model, I would not recommend buying a CRV.

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  Great Vehicle but has comfort issues... - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By roamfree - February 4 - 11:53 pm

  Bought this CRV in Jan 2013. Have about a thousand miles on it. Power is nicely responsive for a 4 cyl. Steering and Road/Ride Quality is sweet! Bluetooth works great with my iPhone 4s. Radio & Phone steering wheel controls are nice. If I had a main gripe its the comfort of seats and the whole Steering wheel/Arm Rest Combo. Im 510" & 220 lbs and seats are a bit small for me(width-wise). Steering wheel doesnt telescope nor move down enough towards driver. On hghwy trips Im unable to drive as casually as I would like whereas my wrist is on my lap and holding steering at 5-7 oclock..and thats with my seat ratcheted up most of the way. Armrests are too narrow and unsupportive.

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  PERHAPS THE BEST CAR IVE OWNED IN SIXTY YEARS - 2013 Honda CR-V
  By caraewron - January 27 - 10:35 pm

  Bought a 2012 CR-V LX Nov. 1, 2012 for $21,600 plus tax and license. Gave away my 10 year old Matrix which had held up nicely. Shopped online for best prices. I saved $1,100 by buying from a dealer 70 miles north. Honda seems to have anticipated what I want in a car: good radio sound easily read instrument panel daytime running lights radio controls on steering wheel good acceleration head room comfortable back seats height adjustable front seat constant mpg readout respectable gas mileage those high and narrow taillights headlights are good high and low. The front seat seems almost to firm but most seats are a challenge for a tall (6ft 2in) driver. Id gladly buy it again.