Honda CR-V Review

2008 Honda CR-V LX SUV Shown

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 sedan-like 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 enjoyed incredibly 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 compacts offer larger V6 engines and others can deliver true off-road capability, the current Honda CR-V remains focused on its carlike aspirations. True enough, it is one of the best choices available in the all-important areas of on-road drivability and practicality.

Because of the variations available, choosing the best compact SUV is largely a matter of personal taste and lifestyle. For urban and suburban dwellers looking for a more versatile alternative to a small car -- with decent mileage, great reliability and perhaps some all-weather capability thrown in to seal the deal -- we think the five-passenger, four-door Honda CR-V is a fine choice.

Current Honda CR-V

Buyers can choose from three trim levels – the LX, EX and EX-L. The LX gets you the basics like powered accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player. 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, satellite radio and a subwoofer. The sole item on the SUV's options list is a touchscreen navigation system that includes a rearview camera.

Powering the Honda CR-V is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 166 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed transmission. On all models, buyers can opt for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive to maximize traction.

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 4WD 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.

The current CR-V is part of the model's third generation, which dates back to 2007. There have been no significant changes since then.

Past Honda CR-Vs

Because it's a perennial top-seller, used-CR-V shoppers should find plenty of vehicles to look at. Redesigned for 2002, the second-generation CR-V boasted a number of improvements including more power, more interior room and improved passenger protection. Mostly detail changes saw the CR-V through the next few years, meaning earlier models can provide especially good value.

Of the 2006 model, our editors said, "Around-town driving reveals a softly tuned setup that favors comfort over performance and is just about ideal for commuters. Four-wheel-drive CR-Vs are perfect for negotiating wet or snowy road conditions. However, when taken on terrain more rugged than a gravel road, the Honda CR-V quickly gets wobbly in the knees. Though it has more ground clearance than the Honda Element, this isn't the mini SUV to get if you regularly venture into the wilderness."

The original first-generation Honda CR-V compact SUV hit the streets a decade ago. It was priced competitively and offered more passenger room and cargo capacity than its peers. A manual transmission was added in 1998, and a 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.