Honda CR-V Review

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, 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 V6 engines and others can deliver true off-road capability, the Honda CR-V remains focused on its carlike aspirations. True to form, it is one of the best choices available in the all-important areas of on-road drivability and practicality.

Current Honda CR-V
Buyers can choose from four trim levels  the LX, SE, EX and EX-L. The LX gets you the basics like powered accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player. The SE adds alloy wheels, rear privacy glass and an upgraded audio system. The high-volume EX model adds niceties like keyless entry, alloy wheels, an upgraded stereo, moonroof and privacy glass. For those who want it all, the uplevel EX-L's additions include leather upholstery, a power driver seat, satellite radio, a USB audio jack and a subwoofer. The sole item on the SUV's options list is a touchscreen navigation system that includes a rearview camera and Bluetooth.

Powering the Honda CR-V is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 180 horsepower and 161 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 Honda CR-V's list of merits is a long one. Its interior is intelligently thought out and boasts high-quality materials. Its ride is comfortable and quiet, its handling is nimble and its crash test scores are superlative. Its sole shortcoming concerns passing power in certain circumstances. Our editors found the CR-V's acceleration adequate and pleasant around town, but merging and passing maneuvers on gradients can strain its torque reserves -- especially when compared to its V6-equipped competition. However, as long as your beaten path doesn't include many steep roads or overly heavy loads, we think the Honda CR-V may possess all the room, refinement and performance you will ever need.

Used Honda CR-Vs
The current CR-V is part of the model's third generation, which dates back to 2007. The EX-L gained a power driver seat, automatic climate control and a premium stereo for '08. CR-Vs from 2007-'09 also were slightly less powerful than the current model, as their four-cylinder engine was rated for 166 hp. The SE trim level didn't debut until the 2011 model year.

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 LX came standard with conveniences like a height-adjustable driver seat, full power accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player, though antilock brakes were not standard on the LX until 2005. The EX had standard ABS all the way through as well as standard side airbags (optional on LX until '05), and it added niceties like alloy wheels, a sunroof, an in-dash CD changer and rear ventilation ducts. 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. Like every "soft-roader," this CR-V wasn't really intended for terrain more rugged than a gravel road, but its ample ground clearance and available all-wheel drive gave peace of mind to those in colder climes. 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.