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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  2018 CR-V - 2018 Honda CR-V
  By Tom2care - September 5 - 10:09 pm

  Just be prepared Honda Dealers are tough and the prices are pretty much the same at all dealersips

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  So-So CR-V - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By HondaFan - September 3 - 3:50 pm

  I bought my V new in 07. Its been a good car with its versatility, roominess and comfortable on trips and great road manners. But it has had some problems engine replaced, drive pulley replaced, constant high pitched squeal with AC on at low fan speed (found TSB for- lets see if dealer will honor), and several squeaks and rattles. Ive owned other Hondas, including a V, which is still in the family w/ 189K miles, but I dont think this one will last as long. Im def. looking to trade it in already. Im not saying people shouldnt buy the CR-V, but I would advise not to expect the same longevity as previous Honda models.

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  Excellent Car but still needs Improment - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By Ch Tong - September 3 - 6:40 am

  I found no problem with this vehicle except some minor things that bother me a little: -The battery drain so quick, after only half hour listen to the radio, I could not start the engine. -You can not let the two back windows down while driving, very noisy. -Ceiling vibration causes annoying noise. -Fuel economy is right at 23MPG. This may be is the NORM.

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  Smooth ride with good mpg - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By niteflite - September 2 - 9:39 pm

  I bought the glacier blue ex awd for 23,200 out the door (base price of a little over 22,000). The ride so far has be ok... Pretty smooth transmission. Getting around 23.3 mpg in mixed highway/city driving. I owned a 2004 accord 4 cyl before, which basically is the same engine. Yes, the engine is kind of small and I feel and hear it. When car is sitting idle the engine noise is louder than Id expect for it to be, and when the AC is on, its really loud.

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  Beware of Tires - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Beware of Tires - September 2 - 1:38 pm

  First time Honda buyer. After 10,000 miles, tires need to be replaced. They were rotated as required. Rough riding vehicle. Hope new tires will correct. Tried working with Dealer and with Honda rep. Dealer will replace tires with Michelin tires (thats what should be on vehicle to start with). Cost to me approx $400. Hadnt planned on spending money on new vehicle the first year--at least not for tires. After reading lots of reviews, tires are a problem. Vehicle is good car for older women--too small for men to enjoy. Will let you know how new tires change the ride. Right now, I could not recommend this vehicle. I will probably trade after correcting Hondas tire problem.

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  Mine! - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By chancencinny - September 1 - 7:33 pm

  I feel in love with CR-Vs the first time I saw one. I bought my 2000 CR-V when it was 4 years old and was always happy to see it. When the third generation was announced I was counting down the days until I could buy mine. It has yet to disappoint me. The little quirks were worked out from my first gen and I am so happy I sprung for the EX instead of the base model. I love the feel of driving it and everything. Mileage while not bad could be better I average 19-21 but I mostly do city driving. On the freeway I can usually get 25+.

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  Been happier - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By svteresa - August 29 - 2:00 am

  The check engine light has been on since we bought the car. The dealership tried 3 times to correct it but finally said the company was aware of the problem and would advise as soon as there was a solution. We are still waiting. We have received 2 recalls on it so far for other minor things. I bought a Honda over other brands because I was looking for a trouble free car. Granted, these are fairly minor problems but I was expecting more. I would not buy another one. I have had Subarus in the past and should have stayed with them.....just didnt like the styling of the Forester.

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  We bought two - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By crv x2 - August 29 - 2:00 am

  I looked for several months as we needed to replace both my wifes car and mine. We had a 97 crv and a 2001 outback station wagon. We ended up with a new 2003 and a new 2004 CRV EX. The 04 has auto door locks on the passenger side, but otherwise is the same. I wanted AWD, good mileage, side air bags, a roof rack, and a nice driving, comfortable car. I think I got it.

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  Honda is still tops - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By crv enthusiast - August 29 - 2:00 am

  Had an older CRV when it first debuted. Was not happy with acceleration and smallness of car. Came back to it with the 2004 edition. Power was improved greatly. The EX edition basically gives you everything you need. Was able to purchase one that just came in before the dealer added all of thier extras to. Got a great deal on a rainy night.

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  HOT under the collar without A/C - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By yogamom86 - August 28 - 8:37 pm

  The car was fine until the warranty ended. After that it was one repair and the other. The final straw is the estimated $2500 to replace the entire AC System since the compressor blew pieces of metal all in the system. This is clearly a manufacturer defect. The dealer said that Honda will not pay because of the age of the car.