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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  CRV-best car on the road - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Pat - April 22 - 3:22 pm

  Great mileage; lots of storage; no blind spots; turns on a dime. Love this car!!!!

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  CRV-best car on the road - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Pat - April 22 - 3:22 pm

  Great mileage; lots of storage; no blind spots; turns on a dime. Love this car!!!!

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  CRV-best car on the road - 2001 Honda CR-V
  By Pat - April 22 - 3:22 pm

  Great mileage; lots of storage; no blind spots; turns on a dime. Love this car!!!!

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  Very Good SUV - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Smolenski7 - April 22 - 1:43 pm

  Overall I very much like my CR-V. Before this I had a 02 Saturn Vue, and although I definitely miss it (I miss the control of the manual tranny), I prefer the CR-V. It has great acceleration for a 4cyl. engine, handles well, and the fit and finish cant be beat for the price.

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  "Just Right - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By lovecraft - April 17 - 10:00 am

  There were wagons out there that were more sporty (Mazda Protege5, Subaru Outback Sport), there were wagons that were cheaper (Hyundai Santa Fe), there were wagons that had fabulous exteriors (PT Cruiser),and others with more plush interiors, but none had so many excellent qualities in as many areas as the CR-V. The CR-V is a wonderfully balanced vehicle in terms of comfort, price, reliability, utility, and features. Its pleasant to drive and more importantly its going to be pleasant to own over the years. Simply said its the perfect vehicle for a small family.

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  New CRV - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By cxv - April 16 - 4:46 pm

  Hard to judge built quality this early since my CRV is so new but so far not a single problem. The engine could use a little bit more power but no regrets. The fuel economy is decent for the type of vehicle and the big tank with an 87 octance is a relief. The interior is very comfortable and nicely put together. Before taking delivery Ive noticed a scratch in the shift level indicator. The dealership will replace under warranty. Hard to judge exterior design. Is no Alfa Romeo but not bad.

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  quality & comfort - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By Dv8r0710 - April 13 - 10:00 am

  This CR-V is my first Honda. After owning chevys, Mazda, and Toyota, these vehicles dont have near the quality that is put into this vehicle. The ride is sooo comfortable its unreal. My only drawback with ALL cars today is the gas mileage. With todays gas prices you would think that auto makers would get on the ball and make them ALL more efficient. Still, I get about 24 mpg as i do alot of highway driving. The inside is very roomy with everything displayed well where i dont have to do any reaching. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for an suv that is classy, comfortable and well affordable.

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  CR-V is hard to beat! - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Shaun - April 13 - 8:33 am

  Were very happy with our CR-V. We traded in our 98 for this 07 and love it even more than the first one. It has more legroom for the back seats and bigger cargo area in the back. Gas mileage is about 25 mpg--not bad for an SUV. We had zero problems w/ our first one, and expect the same this time.

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  Better than I had hoped - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Steve - April 12 - 9:26 am

  I have owned many Honda Accords and recently traded an 07 Accord EX 4 cylinder. I am very pleased with the purchase. The CRV has great acceleration and many standard features that I enjoy. There are many little improvements over the 09 model that really add up. The new 180 hp CR V engine is very smooth, quiet, and willing. I test drove the new Subaru Outback and Forester models. This Honda has better fit and finish, a more refined drive train, and a high quality standard sound system. On my first tank of gas I am averaging 24 mpg - mostly city driving. Since it is a Honda it should be very reliable and have excellent resale value.

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  Best New Car Ive Ever Owned - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Lorraine - April 12 - 6:56 am

  Was going to buy a Honda Odyssey but with fuel prices they way they are I decided to go with the CR-V. Love the Green. Great family vehicle took the kids on a road trip and we had plenty of room, kids love the 6cd changer. Ive been getting 26-28 mpg around town. Hope to own this vehicle for a very long time.