- 2013
2009 Honda CR-V
- For SaleHonda CR-V
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#1
2009 Honda CR-V Performance
Used Car Scores
| Overall: | 8.6 |
| Critics' Rating: | 9.0 |
| Performance: | 8.3 |
| Interior: | 8.4 |
| Operating Cost: | 7.9 |
| Safety: | 9.6 |
| Reliability: |
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This performance review was created when the car was new. Some links may no longer point to an active page.
Test drivers praise the 2009 CR-V for its car-like driving dynamics. However, they still note it has an underpowered four-cylinder engine and a sometimes bumpy ride.
- "The 2008 Honda CR-V has a level of agility that most other compact SUVs can't match. Like other Hondas, it feels light on its feet, with well-weighted steering that provides excellent feedback." -- Edmunds
- "Speaking of driving, the new CR-V isn't quite a sports sedan, but it performs extremely well for a vehicle in this class." -- Automobile.com
- "Everyone will appreciate the CR-V's comfortable ride, efficiency, and refined engine." -- Autoweb
- "As with other car-based utility vehicles, the CR-V is easy to drive, with a comfortable ride and decent handling. While the engine is not what I would call powerful, it feels quick off the line while providing impressive fuel economy for such a large machine." -- MSN
Acceleration and Power
The CR-V's underpowered four-cylinder engine disappoints test drivers, especially when it comes to highway performance. According to the EPA, the 2WD model nets a city/highway fuel economy of 20/27 mpg, while the 4WD nets 20/26.
- "One ho-hum element is power. Honda's automatic is smooth enough, but it's no substitute for the sense of involvement that comes from a good manual gearbox." -- Car and Driver
- "Enthusiasts will wish for more power and some sort of control over the automatic transmission." -- Autoweb
- "Acceleration is adequate around town and in highway passing. Transmission shifts are smooth and alert." -- Consumer Guide
Handling and Braking
Though the CR-V is well-liked for its car-like handling, some test drivers think the ride is too choppy.
- "The CR-V shines in handling. The steering is tightly sprung -- move the wheel slightly and the CR-V reacts with an intuitive feel that's rare in non-luxury cars." -- Cars.com
- "On pavement, the CR-V responded instantly -- but never nervously -- to all inputs. It offered the agility of a Civic with the solidity and structure of something heavier and more expensive." -- Car and Driver
- "Carlike on all surfaces. CR-V's suspension comfortably absorbs bumps with minimal float or wallow." -- Consumer Guide
- "A compact car with a big-car ride, the CR-V has a composed feel, easily rolling over rough roads without ruffling the passengers." -- Kelley Blue Book
