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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  Great liitle ride - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By eddieboy - May 3 - 1:16 pm

  My wifes choice. I was looking for an Accord. She fell in love with this royal blue pearl model. Fantastic fit and finish, no defects on delivery. Not a head snapper, but adequate acceleration and surprising comfort, Typical solid Honda feel. Loaded with safety features and very nicely appointed. Great handling and stopping. Mileage is a little better than advertised, with 28 mpg on trips and 26 in town driving, We both love to drive it and it is a head turner. People asking all about it. Couldnt be more pleased! Well, maybe a little. The funky console/tray is kinda useless and would prefer a real console with storage, but this is really nit-picking!

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  First Time Honda Owner - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By Jeff - April 28 - 7:51 pm

  Grappone Honda, and Shirley, Paige, and Cathy in particular, made the buying experience an enjoyable one. It was a no-pressure and friendly experience. The sticker price on the new CRV and the trade-in offer were very good and eliminated a painful negotiation. This is the first Honda we have ever owned and it is the most comfortable. We purchased it because my wife will be driving her elderly father to appointments soon and we need a vehicle that is easy to get in and out of. Further, I always struggle with comfort because of my height and the CRV is comfortable and a joy to drive. Great buying experience and a great vehicle!

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  Honda did again class leader - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By canatsui - April 27 - 2:00 am

  what is with the small tires?

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  Best Mini SUV Out There ! - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Ustii-Yonv - April 27 - 2:00 am

  I test drove every other mini-suv on the market today and the CR-V is tops in just about every category. Its engine might not be the most powerful out there but its response and smoothness more than make up for it. The CR-V handles very well on-road for an SUV and is a snap to park in even the tightest spots. For its size the CR- V is incredibly spacious. There are so many places to put things, that you might never use them all. The interior is my favorite part of this Honda. At 62" I have more than enough leg, head and shoulder room. With the front seats all the way back, I even have enough room in the back seats to sit comfortably.

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  2007 CR-V - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Tim - April 26 - 9:53 pm

  I traded in my 2004 Honda CR-V for the new 2007 model. I bought the EX Model with the rear spoiler as an add on. The spoiler makes a BIG difference. LOVE the new model. Rides much better than the 2004 with the 17" alloy wheels. The new model LOOKS GREAT! HONDA has a winner with this one...a great price for a really great car!

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  Great Family Vehicle...and FUN too! - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By HondaMom - April 26 - 7:00 am

  Bought this car in the midst of a noreaster in February; its been a great vehicle! It handles the road well and is a lot of fun to drive. I find myself making excuses to go out driving now, just so I can enjoy the leather seats, the moonroof, and the six-CD changer. My kids love it too, its a great family car for day trips. Im a very satisfied Honda owner.

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  Pastor - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Pastor Robert Henry - April 24 - 1:51 am

  The car is not made efficiently! I have 7,000 miles on the car today. I took the car back to the dealer for noise and vibration. I was told that they replaced the rear Heat shield and that the car was quiet. The car still vibrates at 1200 or less RPM. When I accelerate the noise of vibration is consistent until reaching above 1200 RPM and it runs with plenty of get up but then when descending down a slope the car vibrates and the noise is loud. I have yet to feel comfortable in the car after adjusting the driver seat up and down tilted forward or backward. It simply is not comfortable. There is road noise as well in the cab of the car! Its like driving with the windows open which is not advisable since I live in central Pennsylvania and the temperature is 32 or less. I am totally disheartened by the purchase of this vehicle. I am frustrated every time I have to drive this car. I am totally disappointed and feel cheated in pursuing a new car that I could retire with and not have these concerns and issues. I would not recommend to anyone the purchase of this car and this is my second Honda. Bob Henry

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  Great purchase - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By JW - April 23 - 11:48 pm

  Love the safety devices!

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  My 2nd honda vehicle - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By almunday - April 22 - 2:00 am

  this is my 2nd new honda purchase, 1st being in 2000 on a ex honda accord. I just took delivery of 2003 crv ex with auto. Ride is good for a mini suv with awd, so far I enjoy everything about the crv. although Ive only had it less then a week, Ive already put almost 400miles on it. Just a fun vehicle to drive. internet/fleet manager (Kevin) was excellent to deal with. Got me a good price, walked me throught the whole crv, just a good buying experience via Los Gatos Honda

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  great suv - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By alfaron1 - April 22 - 2:00 am

  this car has proved its weight in gold on road and off. burning rubber on and kicking up dust off.