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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  Just ok not what I expected from Honda - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Lee - March 9 - 10:40 am

  First of all the vibration is real folks, there is now a tsb, out for it which greatly improves it at lower speeds , but it just seemed to move it to a higher speed. At 70 mph its like sitting in a vibromatic chair and it really wears on you over a distance. Its a weird vibe because it doesnt change frequency, regardless of road speed or engine rpm, its just there. Will be soon going back to dealer before warranty is out. We have gotten 36+ Mpg on trips and 24-28 around town with it so no real complaints there. Interior noise is 1000 x better than older crvs, we test drove some. Its my wifes vehicle and overall not bad, and she is happy with it, but being a former mechanic and tuned to notice small things in a car, the vibe does bug me especially with todays technology I think they could have done a better job on the drivetrain.

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  finally! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Xath - March 8 - 12:00 pm

  I wanted a small SUV to be able to handle taking my dogs to the vet, get up some local snowy hills, provide some "extras" and have good gas mileage. I got it all with the CRV SE. I love the size, the reliability of this make, and price. It fits in the garage and still can handle a load from the local home improvement store. Four adults fit comfortably but five could squeeze if needed. It also reaches a nice middle ground between car and SUV for handling curves and bumps.

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  07 CR-V New Owner - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By gc - March 7 - 5:26 am

  Were having our first baby and we decided to trade in our 03 civic for the new CR-V on Oct7. And OH, what an upgrade! I love the redesign. It does make heads turn. Weve had 4 strangers compliment us on the road. The seats are wonderfully comfortable. We got the one that was in the showroom that had the running boards, roof rack, and fog lights already installed (We got those included). The price is definitely reasonable. You do get what you paid for. Its not a Lexus or a BMW that will have more power. BUT it definitely has the luxury feel (for me). Its one of the least expensive SUVs and were more than satisfied with it.

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  Great first car! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Aubrey - March 3 - 5:22 pm

  I bought this car when I was 18 as my first car. It has been reliable and great ever since I have owned it! The only problems I have been incurring are the various headlight bulbs have been going out. First, my driverside rear blinker went out; second, my passenger rear running light went out; third, my front driverside headlight went out; fourth, my front driverside blinker went out. All cheap do-able fixes. But I love my car, it has been great for me!

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  Great first car! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Aubrey - March 3 - 5:22 pm

  I bought this car when I was 18 as my first car. It has been reliable and great ever since I have owned it! The only problems I have been incurring are the various headlight bulbs have been going out. First, my driverside rear blinker went out; second, my passenger rear running light went out; third, my front driverside headlight went out; fourth, my front driverside blinker went out. All cheap do-able fixes. But I love my car, it has been great for me!

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  Always wanted a Honda - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Chuck H - March 3 - 1:43 am

  Needed a small SUV w/awd and good economy for my short(22m each way) commute to work. Looked at Hyundai, Jeep Liberty, Toyota Highlander, and KIA Sorento. For the money, nothing offered what the CRV-EX does. Was a little sceptical about a 4 cyl. since Im a performance freak but this is the neatest little 4 Ive ever driven.

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  Fantastic SUV, Im glad I purchased it. - 2015 Honda CR-V
  By Steven - March 2 - 3:40 am

  For me it was a toss up between a 2015-16 CR-V Touring AWD or a 2016 Hyundai Tucson Limited AWD. It was gut wrenching because my last 4 cars have been Hyundais. Both cars are truly neck and neck in almost every aspect. Although the Tucson had a few more extra features, such as heated rear seats and more refined technology. The two things that swayed me to a CR-V was, it had a much better ride. My Mom has a bad back and it was important to get a car she would be comfortable riding in when we spend time together. And Hyundai would not give me any incentives on a new purchase. So, having this car for two weeks now, I have no regrets. The voice commands and touch screen are painfully slow, and seriously Honda, no rotary volume knob!? I love how the rear seats fold several ways. I have no issues with vibration whatsoever. I was caught in absolutely terrible weather the other night, pounding rain and just nasty out. I felt very secure and safe in my CR-V, the AWD really does give peace of mind. Very happy with my decision. Although there are a few mis steps with this SUV, the package as a whole far outweigh and negatives I can point out. Next up is some window tint, summers are harsh here in Florida.

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  I love this Car! - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Katie - March 2 - 1:36 am

  This car is great. with the AWD I dont have to choose when to put it into 4 wheel drive. I love the safety features. Having a baby I feel more comfortable with the side airbags. I love the room in the back with the stroller and at least 5 medium suitcases being able to fit as well. Best car ever! I would suggest it to anyone.

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  2004 HONDA CRV LX - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By cascadebob - March 1 - 10:00 am

  THIS IS THE FIFTH HONDA MY FAMILY HAS OWNED AND OVERALL THIS IS A PRETTY NICE ONE. A FEW MINOR THINGS I DONT LIKE BUT MY WIFE SWEARS SHE WILL DRIVE IT FOREVER.

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  Love the CR-V - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Matt - February 28 - 3:26 am

  After owning this car for three weeks, my wife and I are still looking for excuses to drive somewhere. I have no idea what the other review with the stiff steering wheel is about. This car has some of the lightest steering Ive ever driven. I test drove 4 competing brands and the only other I even considered was the Toyota RAV4 because the 4 cylinder had a little more power. The interior is laid out well, seats are comfy. The ride is a little stiff over expansion joints, but the trade off is excellent handling in corners. Averaging 23.5 mpg in city driving, 30-33 on the highway. I will say the sound system could be better. It just doesnt seem like I can get it adjusted right.