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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  A Great Alternative - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By EJS - August 22 - 7:53 am

  We test drove a lot of SUVs-a lot. The sticker shock was, well, shocking. With this Honda, though too small to classify as an SUV, was exactly what we were looking for. The interior quality really sets it apart and was not seen anywhere in this price range. It is very roomy, drives exceptionally well, is quite nimble and gets good gas mileage. However, it is woefully underpowered. This "car/suv" is a great alternative to spending mid forties on another vehicle. And whats really nice, in five years this Honda will have the same trade in value as that 45K SUV we liked and almost bought.

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  Cute SUV - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By CODGER - August 22 - 2:00 am

  My first venture into SUV ownership and I must say I am very satisfied. Good, reliable transport. Room enough for 4 good-sized adults or 2 adults and 3 kids. Good ride and no problems in snow. The 4 cylinder engine gets up and goes enough and cruises right along at highway speeds (and slightly above). Would recommend this car to anyone who wants the feel of an SUV, but doesnt expect to do any more off-roading than hitting the grass next to your driveway.

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  Great first SUV - 2004 Honda CR-V
  By happy Honda owner - August 22 - 2:00 am

  I decided on the CRV when I got tired of driving a two door. It has been a great decision so far. I love the cargo room, the height of the vehicle, real time 4WD comes in handy with ice, and it heats up quickly in the winter. It is hard to see over the middle headrest though.

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  More than enough Power - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Pedro - August 21 - 10:00 am

  This is a nice mini SUV to have. We traded in a Windstar with a V6 for this 4 banger CRV and the CRV feels more powerful while being quieter doing it. Shortly after buying this vehicle we drove it from Ohio to Florida down through the mountains and and this SUV far out ran many other cars through the mountains using the cruise control. Of course this would never top my V6 Accord on level ground it does hold it own. Interior is comfortable, and ride is still smooth with easy turning and parking raduis. No trouble parking this small-ute. Four wheel kicks in nice on slick roads with out jolting into gear. Nice all around product.

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  Stay AWAY from GEN2 CRV - 2006 Honda CR-V
  By UNICS33 - August 20 - 8:02 am

  It is soo LOUD, no sound proofing at all. Suspension is very stiff, almost the feeling of riding a buggy...my 3 yo cant even fall asleep, thats how loud and rough ride is. GAS mileage is bad too, averaging 22-23 on normal driving conditions. Car is too heavy for 4 cyl and drag factor is too high. My other Buick Regal is averaging 22mpg and comfort is stellar. Bought it almost new (12K mi) but I sold it in a year because it was very uncomfortable and LOUD, esp. with a little one inside. You feel every little irregularity in the pavement, struts are like filled with steel bars not gas, road noise and engine noise are impressively high. Dont trust the word of mouth. Im very disappointed.

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  Beware cruise control - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By dave - August 19 - 7:44 pm

  Never wanted a Honda CRV. Caved into the dealership sales pitch. Took awhile, but really enjoy driving it, very much. Mine has 67,000 miles and will simply keep driving it. Two things, 1.) the CRUISE CONTROL separated from its location in the engine at 57,000 miles. Dealership said "out-of-warranty" and quoted $986.00 to fix, then indicated that this happened to another customer. They said they would supply the part, I pay for the labor. OK. That was a year ago, and even after several phone calls to them, I still have no cruise control. Also, at 17,000 miles the drivers side floor carpet split, Honda said it was due to "usage". No, it was poor installation.

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  2009 Honda CRV - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By R.Kaminski - August 19 - 7:17 am

  Not pleased with overall ride. Gas mileage excellent. Went on a 300 mile highway trip and crv was very bumpy, felt almost every bump on highway. Could hear the tires going over every bump inside the car. Outside noise extremely loud inside crv. Needs more insulation to eliminate noise. Headrest very uncomfortable. Other than that crv is ok. Will wait and see how brakes hold up. Other reviews complain about possible brake pads and rotor replacements sooner than most cars. Would not recommend this crv. Unfortunately daughter bought same car and she also experiences same loud noises.

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  My First Honda - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Harry - August 18 - 9:22 pm

  Im really enjoying the CRV. Ive owned Toyotas for my last 5 vehicles and may become a long-term Honda fan. This is a well designed and built vehicle. The total package was the selling point: moonroof, stereo, privacy glass, alloys, fit and finish. These were only available in the high end Outback. I go on my first road trip tomorrow and am anxious to see what the gas mileage is. Highly recommend!

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  Best Value & Performance - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By motoguy128 - August 18 - 2:35 pm

  I compared the Nissan Rogue and RAV4 to the CR-V. For the price, I felt the EX 4WD trim offered the best value compared to the competition. It handles like a much smaller vehicle. Coming from a Nissan Versa, it often feels more nimble and easier to maneuver. The Rogue was a little more responsive once rolling, but the CR-V feels more responsive off the line.

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  31 MPG From Albany to Riverside - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By tsamoni - August 18 - 12:30 pm

  I am a new father and traded in my Civic Coupe for a family-friendly, but fun-to-drive CR-V. On a recent trip to Albany, NY to Riverside, NJ (250 miles) I averaged 31 MPG--not too bad for a car that is a lot heavier than my 35MPG Civic. This car is great for the guy who is in his early 30s, just starting a family, and who cant see himself in a minivan or a Sedan like the Accord or Camry (too old manish and boring). I have plenty of room for all my daughters stuff and enough left over for my passengers--even with a car seat installed. Overall, this is a great compromise between style and fun, and necessity and practicality. The CR-V guarantees I will be a Loyal Honda Owner forever!