2010 Honda CR-V
- 2009 Honda CR-V
- Used Honda CR-V
Based on analysis of 75 CR-V reviews and test drives.
Honda CR-V - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Honda CR-V ranks 1 out of 26 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 75 published reviews and test drives of the Honda CR-V, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Honda CR-V provides one of the best combinations of safety, utility and affordability in its class. And with increased fuel economy, more power and a more well-liked exterior for 2010, it gets even better.
The CR-V is an award winner. In 2007, the year it was last redesigned, it received Motor Week's "Driver's Choice" for Best Small Utility and IntelliChoice's "Motorist Choice Award." With only slight modifications for 2010, it continues that heritage. "Look past the conservative exterior styling and you'll find the best-designed small SUV in this price range when it comes to interior aesthetics and day-to-day practicality," says Edmunds. "Build and materials quality leads the class."
The CR-V is often compared to the Toyota RAV4, another class leader. The two are very similar, though the CR-V's advantages include a much easier-to-use tailgate and higher quality interior. The RAV4's advantages, on the other hand, are its slightly better fuel economy as well as an optional third-row seat and more powerful V6 engine -- both rare features within this class.
The CR-V's somewhat boring exterior and awkward front end didn't used to be as well-liked as the RAV4's styling, but that has changed for this year -- Honda has redesigned the exterior with a new grille, new wheels and an updated bumper and front fascia. For 2010, Honda has also introduced a remedy for the CR-V's formerly sluggish engine by adding 14 extra horsepower.
Since the CR-V and RAV4 are so similar, it's worth test-driving both of them before making a purchase decision. They're both priced in the middle of their segment, but for an even more affordable option (but one with slightly worse gas mileage), consider the Kia Sportage. If you do decide on the CR-V, be sure to check for current Honda Deals that may be available.
The 2010 Honda CR-V comes in several trims -- the base LX, mid-level EX and luxurious EX-L -- in either front- or all-wheel drive.
- "This is an excellent vehicle and a great value -- possibly the best compact SUV on the market today." -- About.com.
- "It's not the most powerful compact SUV, but CR-V excels for its ‘just right' blend of comfort, refinement, and cargo versatility. Lots of standard safety and convenience features and Honda's reputation for reliability and resale value further bolster its appeal--and cement its reputation as a good buy in this class." -- Consumer Guide
- "The CR-V placed second behind the excellent RAV4 in our most recent comparison test of cute utes-which included a whopping nine vehicles-in a virtual dead heat that saw only the Nissan Rogue anywhere close to the two leaders." -- Car and Driver
- "This little sport/utility vehicle-crossover thing won't do much for your enthusiast creds, but as agreeable, practical all-purpose transportation, it's hard to beat." -- AutoWeek
- "The 2009 Honda CR-V EX-L's small size and Civic-like handling make it a great choice for city dwellers who occasionally need to haul things--or people. While the cabin tech is impressive, a few more features, such as Bluetooth or iPod connectivity, would make it a home run." -- CNET
CR-V Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 2010 Honda CR-V provides a competent and comfortable ride, but its Achilles has always been an underpowered four-cylinder engine. "Although no one is going to call the CR-V fun to drive, it does handle predictably and is nicely responsive, with accurate steering and a serene ride," says Car and Driver. "The CR-V is the ultimate suburban runabout." Honda has increased the CR-V's horsepower and fuel economy for 2010, which should help matters. But if you're still looking for more power, you can't beat the Toyota RAV4's V6 engine options. Read More
CR-V Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
The Honda CR-V has never been groundbreaking in the style department, and most reviewers have criticized its awkward front and grille in the past. That may change for this year, since Honda has updated the styling and made slight changes to the front grille, fascia and bumper. "The Honda CR-V has never been the prettiest of pint-sized trucklets, but for 2010 it receives a minor facelift, along with a host of other improvements, that make it a bit more appealing to the eyes," says Car and Driver. Read More
CR-V Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)
Reviewers especially like the 2010 Honda CR-V's interior feel and features -- even despite the fact that it doesn't offer an optional third-row seat like its main competitor, the Toyota RAV4. "Perhaps the best attribute of the CR-V is its attractive yet practical cabin design." says Edmunds. "Honda's designers sweated every detail." The CR-V's interior is more kid-friendly and better quality than the RAV4. It even comes with a unique feature, a conversation mirror with sunglass holder, which allows the driver to easily watch the kids in the back seat. Read More
CR-V Safety - NA
The 2010 Honda CR-V does well in federal government crash tests. The Detroit News finds the SUV's safety equipment "mighty impressive on a vehicle in this price class." Read More
CR-V Reliability - 9.0 (Excellent)
The 2010 Honda CR-V reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Honda CR-V comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
