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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  I thought this was a Honda....... - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By BMWfantic - February 21 - 11:44 am

  We thought we were buying a Typical bulletproof Honda in February of 2007 when the car had 18K miles on it and was BABIED for the first owner. The car is comfortable and the interior material is quite good for the price and the car was fairly reliable until about 70K miles. Then the car started jerking when we went about 45 MPH. And the engine check decides when to turn on and off. Turns out the car had a bad 4th gear and needs a new transmission for an outrageous 3500 dollars. What a money. Now we need to dump and get a new car- about 2 years ahead of schedule. This is our first and last Honda. Dont buy these model years- the transmission fail VERY quickly!

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  I love my Honda, still feels new - 1999 Honda CR-V
  By wetpawsx8 - February 13 - 1:58 pm

  I bought this car new. I had an Explorer and it was just too big for me. The CRV fit me perfectly. I have never been sorry. Usual maintenance has been done, I change oil every 3,000 miles. I now have 174,000 miles, most parts are original. Did the drive belt and water pump as preventive maintenance. original brakes, exhaust. I bought slightly oversized tires and have really been happy with that decision, they seem to wear longer. I drive in new fallen snow without a problem. Have never been stranded. Im still getting about 24 mpg. The interior is still in good condition and I haul my two dogs with me often. I hope to get another 174,000 miles before I would give it up.

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  Funtastic - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Maryland Honda lover - February 11 - 11:15 am

  I loved my CRV EX 4X4. My teen son just totaled it. He was not injured thanks to Hondas quality built vehicle and airbags. He didnt even have a scratch! It was fun to drive, great lumbar support & comfortable, not bad 19-24 MPG. Great storage capacity for traveling. Loved the 4x4 aspect and ran like a champ in the snow. The standard Continental tires gave a rough ride which made the vehicle vibrate at highway speeds. Theyre hard to find replacement for in the metro area. I replaced them @ 28,000 miles,change in ride and handling was incredible, much quieter and smoother. I Love Hondas and plan to purchase another. con: minor-fabric on the inside door armrests. Gets dirty easy

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  Completely Rad Vehicle - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By Walsta - February 9 - 5:06 pm

  I purchased my Honda used with 130,000 miles on it. I havent had any major problems. My only complaint is the power windows are dying and the parts are very expensive. My Accord had the same issue. The car handles very well even in tight spaces. My turn radius is better than that of my sisters compact car. I use cruise control whenever I can to improve my gas mileage. Visibility is very good in this model. My car seats four adults very comfortably. I wouldnt suggest a fifth person on a long trip because there isnt a head rest for the middle passenger. This car is excellent for road trips and has plenty of storage space and a table! It handles well on and off paved roads (I have 2WD).

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  Multiple Replacements of Rear Brakes - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By UpstateJohn - February 7 - 2:02 pm

  My wifes CRV...a great car with only one outstanding exception. Multiple complete Replacements of the rear brake systems, complete calipers and rotors. Due to complete lockups of the rear brakes, the first replacement of calipers and rotors was performed under warranty at about 16,000 miles. Honda covered it. Second replacement was and about 37,000 miles, Honda covered that even though past 36,000 miles. Dealer said a bad batch of calipers were used in the first replacement session. (OK, then why the 2nd freeze up?) Then a THIRD replacement was necessary of the calipers and rotors at about 58,000 due to another freezeup and warping the rotors, At our cost. Disappointing. Great Car though

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  Disappointed with my first Honda - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Felt32 - February 7 - 7:09 am

  I am highly disappointed in this CR- V. I had heard about Honda being the most reliable and for me that was not the case. My 2008 Honda CR-V ran hot on me damaging an engine head gasket, temp control device, and etc. The battery also died on me, even though it was my fault for not closing the trunk all of the way it should of warned me that the trunk was not closed. Very disappointed with my purchase so I traded it in after 1.5 years.

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  Its True...Honda QC is SluMping Fast! - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By luvdriving - February 6 - 11:07 pm

  I miss my 95 Accord. It was by far the best vehicle I have ever owned, selling it with 157,000 miles on it. Drove it Coast to Coast and it NEVER ONCE let me down. The 2004 CRV I have now has 57,000 mi on it. Its not horrible..but not great either: Im 61" and can (NEVER) get comfortable due to the lack of leg room...which is primarily my fault for not taking it on a 100 Mi test drive:).. Right! Everything still works BUT the squeaks and bad rattles are Everywhere!..Including Multiple windows, passenger side belt, the front suspension...Mechanic still cant figure that one out! Interior scratches easily, and loud road noise. Im selling it for an alternative Colorado friendly car.

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  So loud!!! - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By Anon - February 5 - 1:50 pm

  This car needs less than a 4/10 rating for "quietness". When you drive down the highway, you expect to be able to still hear your passengers talking. Instead, you have to yell to have a conversation. Forget about being able to listen to music while driving on the highway. Frequent rest stops are needed on travels because the seats are so uncomfortable. This is not a vehicle meant for hwy driving, thats for sure.

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  honda - 2000 Honda CR-V
  By honda crv - February 5 - 10:53 am

  Build quality of exterior and interior is excellent. But this car used from a dealer. However the ride quality is very mediocre. Very uncomfy shocks even with replacement. Loud engine noise and squeaky interior and exterior on bumps. Excellent reliability and gas mileage. Nice looking exterior and handling.

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  Most reliable cars on the road - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Indianapolis - February 2 - 7:12 am

  I bought this for my wife, it has done everything I knew it would as I have owned Honda products in the past. 2-WD is more than adequate in the snow absolutely no problems on ice/snow. Nothing breaks, everything works. Will last 20 years. Honda is quality.