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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  Horrible Engine Vibration - 2016 Honda CR-V
  By Chuck P. - September 15 - 4:38 pm

  The engine in this 2016 CRV vibrates considerably while stopped in drive and foot on the brake. The front seats vibrate to a point that causes my legs to go numb. The doors and center console vibrates, as well as the dash which is creating a noise from the dash/steering column area. The dealership says this is normal, but I wonder what component/s this vibration will cause to come loose later on--electrical connections, fuel line connections, a/c connections, etc. (not to mention my legs)? I bought this CRV because of a presumed reputation, but am left gravely disappointed. I will never buy or recommend Honda vehicles.

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  Extremely Uncomfortable - 2017 Honda CR-V
  By A R - August 27 - 11:13 pm

  I loved everything about this car during the test drive. The interior and exterior are amazing. The tech is the best in class and it seemed overall great. Then I took it home and my opinion changed. I tried every seating position and even used cushions, but could not get comfortable. Even worse than that, after 15 minutes in the car my entire foot and leg started to go numb. I made myself take it for a long drive and by the time I got to my destination my entire foot and leg ere completely numb. It took a while to get the feeling completely back and then the pain took over. I was limping the entire next day. So on the way back I tried cushions and other positions and nothing changed. The seats press on my static nerve and cause all of this to happen. I recommend this car for all of its features, but do not recommend it for comfort. If comfort is important to you look at different cars like the Subaru Forester or Mazda CX-5. I will be selling this back to the dealer for a big loss because I refuse to keep a car that will hurt me. Just beware before buying.

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  A/C Did Me In - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By givingup - August 23 - 4:15 pm

  The a/c, as others have reported, is the worst part of owning this vehicle. First time it broke was long out of warranty and Honda didnt give a flip this was a common complaint. Second time, still under 1yr warranty from previous work. It took the mechanic three compressors before finding one that worked without failing instantly. Third time, I just gave up and am now looking for a new car. It was my second Honda. My first was a Civic which held up well in a very bad front end collision (I walked away uninjured from a car with no front end left) which led me to stay with Honda. The a/c experience and nearly constant check engine light are why I will leave.

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  Totally Disappointed in Honda Quality - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Martha - August 14 - 6:54 pm

  Like other 2003 CRV owners, I bought with expectations of "Honda quality." My air conditioner went out at 56K miles, and to their credit, Honda paid for parts I paid for labor. At 118K it went out again. I was told it was "too far out of warranty" for them to replace the AC again. I assume keeping a Honda for 200+K means replacing the AC every 55K miles??? The oxygen sensor is also out, so I am a soon-to-be EX-Honda owner. Had planned to buy a Civic next, but not now. Detroit should be a lesson on squandering a good reputation and letting quality slip. I dont know what it costs for Honda to get a new customer, but it cost them an AC replacement to lose a "Honda for life" customer.

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  Just Another - 2009 Honda CR-V
  By Boring - July 20 - 9:28 am

  Well I was sold on all the hype of reliability. My wife is really upset we traded a Chevy that has zero issues to one that has us at the Honda Dealer every week. All little stuff from rattles to AC not working. Oh yeah my second transmission in 18000 Miles. Did I get a lemon? Dont think so, lots of others in the waiting room at Honda thinking what did I do. Oh the new body style will be better seems they are doing a redesign to modernize it like the Nissan, Chevy , Ford and Mitsubishi.

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  Bad quality Honda - 2002 Honda CR-V
  By Honda lemon - July 11 - 2:00 am

  Four (4) recalls and fourteen (14) trips to the dealer with problems in a two (2) year period. No more Hondas for me. This company is not user friendly when dealing with customer complaints.

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  No So Good Honda - 2003 Honda CR-V
  By Gail - July 10 - 4:24 pm

  I am very disappointed and surprised at the unreliability of the 2003 CRV. I thought Hondas lasted a long time with standard maintenance. I had to replace the tires not long after I got the car. The ones that come with the car are poor and unstable. My seatbealts are difficult to use and dont slide back and forth as they should. The security light stayed on because one of the seatbeats was not working at all. A part had to be ordered. Another one is a nightmare to use. I have had to replace one of the oxygen sensors for $550.00. Now my clutch and air conditioner are going out. Thats another $2000 plus. Because of this, I will not purchase another Honda and will now trade this one in.

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  Disappointed - 2008 Honda CR-V
  By Honda Honey - June 16 - 2:39 am

  AC and electrical issues as well as pulling to side upon acceleration. Master brake cylinder went out and had to be replaced. Ride is jiggly compared to other SUV I had considered. No tinted windows so gets hot! Poor acceleration with AC on which did have probs as well as idiot lights sometimes lighting. Got a lemon... Not happy with power...even the Hyundai is faster (and has a much better ride, though Mercedes heavy feeling). Needs more storage compartments, no bumper to stand on to get to roof racks... paint chips easily in parking lots... Cute, bought because of reputation. At least it still has 2 years on warranty... Got a lemon...

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  Worst Car I have ever owned - 2005 Honda CR-V
  By 2005Hd - June 3 - 9:52 pm

  Purchased new in Oct of 2005 and cant wait to get rid of it. VERY uncomfortable to drive any amount of time over 1.5 hours. Road noise is VERY pronounced. Interior materials are substandard - very easy to mark plastics & can never remove these marks through cleaning or rubbing. The radio is starting to malfunction. Sun visors will not stay up against the windshield. Thus, I have to point the visor toward my face in order to block the sun & drive at the same time. The auto transmission does not shift smoothly - first gear is geared too low. Hey Honda, how about making the oil capacity either 4 or 5 quarts, NOT 4.4! No more Honda vehicles for me.

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  Like A Lemon - 2007 Honda CR-V
  By Michele Rent - March 31 - 11:43 am

  Less than 10,000 miles I had to to have the rear differential worked on twice, had to replace tire pressure and master tire pressure sensors at this time, the back Windows squeak like finger nails on a chark board when rolling down, the rear hatch has to be slammed shut, causing the plastic cover above the license plate to fall off, the brakes didnt even last up to 20,000 miles, I am now on my second set of pads, I can not drive at a steady speed between the shifts of the because the car vibrates, sensor that has controls the cooling fan had to be replaced, the plastic splash gaurd under to car came apart, the drivers seat is already wearing down, sad to say but I hate to drive this car - dont buy one.