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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  No 5th wheel anymore - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By pc - October 3 - 2:00 am

  I traded in my 2006 EX and while Ill miss the loaded features I added to it I am thrilled to have no loud slams from the tailgate w/spare tire. I wish there was an interior control to open the tailgate. The Honda craftsmanship is still evident throughout the interior. I like the non-glare material on top of the dash board. The exterior features meet my needs and the body design is obviously more aerodynamic and visually pleasing. After one day of highway (two hours) and suburb (three hours)driving I was satisfied with the get up and go entering the highway. I did buy a couple blind spot mirrors as I noticed my ability to view other lanes in the city was decreased with the new CR-V.

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  3000 mile review. - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By CRV Owner - October 3 - 2:00 am

  So far, so good. The CR-V definitely leads the small SUV class in terms of refinement and build quality. No question there. As noted elsewhere (everywhere?), the low-end power (torque) is lacking on the CR-V however, once youre at cruising speed the power is adequate for normal, safe, efficient driving maneuvers. The only thing that would have made me second guess the purchase is if I lived in a hilly or mountainous region--those are the times when you can really feel/hear the 4 cylinder working hard to propel the vehicles substantial weight. Otherwise, the CR-V is a pleasure to drive. It feels nimble, reliable, and inspires a feeling of safety on the road.

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  Good Value! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Good value! - October 2 - 2:00 am

  This is my 5th Honda vehicle which I purchased new. Previously I had 3 Accords and a Civic. Its my first SUV and I put 2500 miles on it so far. It handles well in rain and dry and dirt roads with no problems, but I did not have a chance to test the snow, but I will review when it comes. Gas mpg is a little low, but expected since its 4WD. Im getting up to 29 mpg hwy and as low as 18 city. Small price to pay for a great SUV! Seat comfort is good. I like the pickup power and interior and exterior. I dont notice any wind noise. My CR-V was built in japan and whether or not that makes a difference I dont know. Its very versatile and practical and fun to drive too!

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  Stunningly Average - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By Middle Age Guy - October 1 - 2:00 am

  It suits my needs well for around town driving, picking things up at Lowes, taking my large dog to the vet and short drives with 3 passengers. The a/c is inadequate for temperatures in the mid 90s and up. Cant adjust drivers seat to get a comfortable driving position for the steering wheel and pedals at the same time. Also, seat bottom cushion is too short for comfortable thigh support. Why does the same company have great seats in an Acura and lousy ones in a Honda? Dangerously low engine power and torque. Poor gas mileage for an underpowered 4 cylinder 15 city, 21 highway. If this was my only car, Id sell it and get something else, like Toyota RAV4 or VW Tiguan.

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  Nice little Honda - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Honda owner - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Traded in 07 RAV-4 base model, wife has 07 CRV-EX I think RAV had more passenger cabin space. MPG is good- we use BP 5% cash back card, I get 27-29 in summer, 24-26 in winter at 25-35 mph back roads/city and 55-65 mph divided highway to/from/for work. Concur re other interior comments- stains easily. Good in snow, easy to park, hauls stuff for picnics/parks, but a little crowded. With 2 car seats in back theres not enough room for adult in middle for comfort. Mine was made in USA, hers in Japan- mine showed rust on rear wheel hub(?) and hatch lift rods from purchase, not hers. Mine has squeak in steering/front shock. Continental 4x4 OEM tires bad-37K new Cooper CS4s on hers ok at 12k.

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  Honda CR-V 2010 Good and Bad - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By New to Honda CRV - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I just bought an EX-L and drove it home last night. I really hate the driver side arm rest. It is not comfortable, too short and narrow. My arm kept falling off. I also noticed that the center console in the back seat fold down for drinks and an arm rest but it folds down at an angle. the drinks would spill. It is slanted down about 25 degrees. Also, the bright beam head lights seem to point up at the trees and not at the street. The lower beam lights are pointed at the street correctly but actually illuminate the road much better than the bright beams!! I am taking it back to the dealer next week to see if they can do anything. They may have to replace the drink holder in the back seat.

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  Our Experience - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By dick M - September 29 - 2:00 am

  Our 1st SUV- most pleased with the comfort, great vision and workmanship of this CR-V the sales and management staff at Cramers is on the level of the luxury car staffs that we have been dealing with for over 15 years.

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  Love my CR-V! - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By bernieismycat - September 26 - 2:00 am

  This is my 2nd Honda and first CR-V. I needed the extra cargo room of an SUV after getting a large dog. I wanted a small crossover SUV, and my research led me to either CR-V or Toyota RAV4. My wife rejected the RAV4 because of its externally mounted spare tire, so we got the CR-V. I love the flexible arrangement of the rear seats. We are getting great highway mileage (28 mpg with just 300 miles on the car) but the city mileage is low at around 17mpg. Hopefully it will improve with break- in. We got the navi primarily for the backup camera and bluetooth handsfree, which work great! The GPS system could use improvement.

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  Very Disappointed with 2010 CR-V EX-L - 2010 Honda CR-V
  By JackoABQ - September 25 - 2:00 am

  We have a continuing problem with our 2010 CR-V EX-L 2WD that Honda will not resolve. Vehicle has vibration between 55-60 mph. After multiple tire balancing, and trying new wheels/tires on all 4 wheels, the service manager has admitted there is an inherent problem with the CR-V. Between the dealership and the regional manager, nothing has been resolved- "not a safety issue." Honda did offer to buy it back at trade-in value, and sell us a new 2010 CRV. No thanks! Not sure where the hype comes from, this is our first and last Honda.

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  Love my CR-V - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Mary - September 24 - 2:00 am

  Bought this for my new 16 year old girls, after my Odyssey died at 230,000 miles and getting myself a Pilot. The girls love this car! They can fit all their friends in it VERY comfortably, and have claimed they can fit over ten people in it if arranged correctly. The AUX jack is handy, and one daughter loves plugging iPhone in and being able to listen to music through it AND can talk through the car (without bluetooth!). Very VERY safe. Have never doubted Hondas reliability and never will. The girls have to fill up their tank, maybe once a week, and they do no highway driving, so they fuel economy is great! So impressed!