Used Honda CR-V

Does the CR-V Have a Solid Track Record?

The Honda CR-V represents a pillar of quality in the used car market. While buying a used car is never guaranteed to result in a trouble-free ownership experience, when you choose a CR-V, you certainly come close. Long known for its durability, it’s common to find great reviews from happy CR-V owners.

The acronym CR-V isn’t just a factory moniker. Most people don’t know that it stands for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle” and that the descriptor predated the massive influx of SUVs and crossovers to the American car market that came well after the CR-V’s initial launch. In other words, Honda saw the writing on the wall and designed a larger vehicle with car-like handling well before the official birth of the crossover.

The CR-V became a staple in American families’ driveways almost from the day of its launch and carried over to other segments as well, including first-time buyers, young urban dwellers, and even retirees. Its consistent reliability and affordable price tag held mass appeal and still do today, and millions of these Honda SUVs travel on American highways and back roads every day.

From a styling standpoint, the CR-V maintained consistency throughout its many redesigns. A good example of this is the unique rear-mounted spare tire. It’s not uncommon to see older CR-Vs sporting custom tire covers with clever catchphrases or pop culture references, along with plenty of original covers emblazoned with the Honda logo. The most recent CR-V models abandoned the exterior-mounted spare, but it stuck around for multiple generations.

One of the main reasons buyers continue to flock to the CR-V is its just-right compact size. It easily functions as a daily driver for busy young families, and its diminutive size and impressive fuel economy ratings make it a top choice for commuters. Over the years, Honda has continued adding more technologically advanced safety features, further adding to the CR-V’s appeal.

With its cute rear-mounted spare tire and signature swing-out tailgate, older CR-V models are instantly recognizable. Additionally, they feature unique vertical taillights and brake lights. Because the CR-V rides on a car platform, it delivers a smoother ride and better fuel economy than some of its competitors but still offers all the roominess crossover buyers expect. It’s a value proposition that’s attractive to compact crossover buyers.

Honda made automotive magic when it designed and launched the popular CR-V. Not only have echoes of its signature styling remained throughout 25 years of production, but a loyal owner base continues to buoy sales and keep the CR-V at the top of the list for compact crossover buyers. It wouldn’t be a stretch to call the Honda CR-V a no-brainer, especially as a used car choice. Honda’s other calling card, safety, is another feature CR-V owners appreciate.

How Many CR-V Generations Are There?

It’s hard to believe that the very first CR-V rolled off the assembly line back in 1997. Bill Clinton was president, Elton John’s "Candle in the Wind" topped the charts, and the first iPhone was still over a decade away. The first generation launched with a single trim option and received a handful of facelifts until it was retired in 2001.

For the 2002 model year, Honda introduced a completely redesigned CR-V in a classic design that formed the foundation for future generations. Throughout the second-generation phase, the CR-V earned accolades from automotive journalists and received regular mid-cycle updates, allowing Honda to equip it with the latest technology.

The second generation ended four years later when Honda introduced gen three as a 2007 model. This CR-V evolved with a series of in-cabin technology upgrades, including hands-free Bluetooth, USB audio connections, and onboard navigation. Buyers also enjoyed a six-disc CD changer, which at the time was considered an advanced audio feature.

The 2012 model year ushered in Honda’s fourth-generation CR-V. We began to see significant powertrain upgrades throughout the time period, which spanned the 2012-2016 model years. Improvements included a continuously variable transmission (CVT), which contributed to better overall fuel economy, and a strengthened body that improved crash test performance.

By its fifth generation, the CR-V had enjoyed many years of popularity in the compact crossover segment. Owner loyalty remained high, and the sheer volume of CR-Vs sold made them one of the most frequently spotted cars on the road. The fifth generation shared its platform with Honda’s popular Civic and began featuring advanced driver-assist safety technology. Now, the CR-V is in its sixth generation, which began with the 2023 model year.

Used CR-V buyers are in luck because with all these generations and literally millions on the road at any given time, there’s a huge pool of inventory to pick from. Within the CR-V family, buyers will find a manual transmission option, both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, and a variety of styling, trims, and comfort/convenience features. Focus your search on older model years, and you’re likely to find some great bargains. Even high mileage CR-Vs represent a great potential used vehicle option.

Throughout its 25-year lifecycle (and counting!), the CR-V has held fast to its groundbreaking body style, with few dramatic deviations. However, in the 2019 model year, the first-ever Honda CR-V Hybrid hit dealerships. As part of Honda’s unwavering commitment to safety, the company included its Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist systems as standard across the entire trim range.

What Engines Are Available in the Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V has had a couple of different engines over the years. The fourth-generation CR-V, which ran from 2012 to 2016, was only available with a 2.4L engine. For the 2012 to 2014 models, this was a multiport injection design that produces 185 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. However, for the 2015 to 2016 models, this was replaced with an improved direct-injection design with 185 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque, as well as improved fuel economy. With Honda vehicles, you will rarely have to choose between efficiency and performance, as the company is equally dedicated to improving both aspects of its vehicles.

For the fifth-generation CR-V, which debuted for 2017, the base 2.4L engine was supplemented with an optional 1.5L turbocharged engine that produces 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. However, the largest advantage of the 1.5L engine is not its power but its increased efficiency, which saves you money at the pump. This is consistent with Honda’s goal of protecting the environment by offering highly fuel-efficient vehicles. For the 2020 model year refresh, the older 2.4L engine was eliminated, and the 1.5L became standard across the CR-V lineup.

The 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder, paired with a smooth operating CVT transmission, makes for an engaging experience. Not only can you expect a comfortable ride out of this lively combo, but also a nice amount of power too. This capable engine allows the CR-V to tow up to 1,500 lbs, making this Honda favorite perfect for many different types of drivers with varying travel needs. Like we mentioned above, this engine is also extremely efficient, which makes it perfect for commuters and road trippers. Plus, with its quiet operation, feeling content inside of the CR-V is easy and welcoming, especially after a long, hectic workday. Its responsive feel blends with just the right amount of athleticism to allow you to enjoy a ride that’s pleasant, safe, and refined, which is exactly what drivers are seeking out in their everyday ride.

While it is only beginning to reach the used market, the 2020 CR-V also added an all-new and even more efficient hybrid powerplant that made the CR-V Honda’s first hybrid SUV for the American market. This two-motor system combines a 1.4-kWh lithium-ion battery with a 2.0L Atkinson-cycle engine. Notably, the CR-V Hybrid does not sacrifice performance for fuel economy. Indeed, with its combined 212 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque, the hybrid drivetrain is noticeably more powerful than the gasoline options and gives the CR-V tremendous power at low speeds.

Shop for a New CR-V

The CR-V has certainly wowed us through its numerous generations, and opting for a new model will ensure that you’re enjoying the best ride possible. From its spacious and accommodating interior to its fuel-efficient engines and tech to its stylish features inside and out, the CR-V makes the ideal travel companion for any type of driver. Commuters love it due to its outstanding gas mileage and comfortable cabin space, while families gravitate toward it because of its class-topping cargo space and convenient storage solutions inside. No matter what the journey entails, choosing a new CR-V will allow you to maximize everyone’s experience with modern-day appointments, cutting-edge features, and so much more.

That’s the big draw to buying a new vehicle. You know that you’re enjoying some of the most advanced tech, safety, and driver assistance features on the market, allowing you to feel more confident behind the wheel. Knowing that you have all of these helpful connectivity features make it easy to stay on schedule during the day, even from the road. Plus, with helpful safety tech, you’ll enjoy a more secure ride.

Speaking of ride, the ride quality of newer vehicles is typically always better. New CR-Vs offer an engaging ride, with smooth driving dynamics and quiet tranquility inside. Agility, excitement, and control can be expected in new models, and with all-wheel drive capabilities available, traversing any type of road condition is easier and safer. Another big advantage to buying a new CR-V is the ability to enjoy high-quality appointments and modern design, especially as you make your way up the trim levels. Top-of-the-line trims will include everything from heated seats to faux-wood accents, offering an upscale ambiance inside that’s difficult to rival.

Shop for a Used CR-V

As we mentioned earlier, the CR-V has been creating a buzz on the road since the late '90s, which means that when it comes to options, you have plenty of them. There are numerous benefits to enjoy when you shop used, and in addition to a fantastic selection, you also get to take advantage of more reasonable prices. Shopping used allows you to get the CR-V you’ve always wanted, complete with all the features you desire, even luxurious appointments and tech, for a much lower price than if you were to buy the same model new. That’s why so many shoppers decide to shop on our used lot, and with the selection you’ll find here at Gwinnett Place Honda, you won’t be disappointed.

Saving money is a huge advantage, but the savings don’t stop with the initial purchase. Generally, used cars come with lower insurance rates, as well as lower dealership fees and down payments. Additionally, the great thing about buying a used CR-V is that you know that this particular model is reliable and safe, so no matter which year you end up choosing, you’ll have the assurance you need that you made the right decision. Plus, due to the fact that the CR-V is so reliable, you’ll also get to enjoy higher resale values than other models, especially if you maintain it and keep it in good condition. This means that when you trade it in, you’ll be able to get more money for it to put toward your next vehicle.

Getting more for less? It’s true, especially when you shop the used lineup of CR-Vs on our lot. We pride ourselves on keeping our inventory stocked with versatile options, so whether you’re looking for a model that’s only a couple of years old or older, you have options. You’re not stuck with just a couple of models. At Gwinnett Place Honda, we ensure that you’re impressed by our selection of high-quality CR-V models.

Is the Honda CR-V Safe?

Safety is a focus for Honda across its entire vehicle lineup. This is evident in the CR-V, whether it’s a new model or an older used vehicle. This is especially true within its last two generations, which include improved crash resistance and advanced active safety technologies that not only allow you to walk away from an accident unscathed but even avoid an accident in the first place.

If you want a vehicle with modern collision avoidance systems, then look for a 2015 model year or later CR-V. Automatic emergency braking, which will activate the brakes when an imminent collision is detected, was added as an option during the 2015 model year refresh. When the CR-V was redesigned for the 2017 model year, Honda went a step further and began including its Honda Sensing safety package standard on most trims.

In addition to enhanced safety features such as lane departure and blind spot warnings, the Honda Sensing package includes handy features such as adaptive cruise control, which adjusts speed to keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front. This feature is a great addition for highway driving, as it means you do not need to worry about constantly braking and resetting your cruise control whenever you encounter a slower vehicle. You’ll also find that its Road Departure Mitigation System provides much-needed assistance to help you stay safely on the road, alerting you if you veer out of your lane or out of the lines of the road. No matter what awaits on the road ahead, it helps to know that your CR-V is prepared to handle it. When you are in a CR-V with Honda Sensing, you will be driving one of the safest and most convenient vehicles available.

With the 2020 model year refresh, Honda has released the safest CR-V to date. For the first time, the Honda Sensing suite of technologies was made standard on every trim of this compact SUV. While finding a used 2020 CR-V may still be a bit of a challenge, if you discover one of these excellent vehicles on our lot, you will be rewarded with one of the safest SUVs on the road at a remarkably affordable price.

Opt for models with the Real Time All-Wheel Drive system for even more safety, especially when the road ahead gets difficult to navigate. Whether it’s inclement weather that you’re attempting to maneuver through or uneven terrain, this intelligent all-wheel drive system effortlessly sends torque to the rear wheels when needed. Utilizing a series of sensors, the CR-V knows exactly when and what amount of torque to deliver so that you remain safe and controlled, no matter what your travels entail. It’s features like these that make the CR-V so exceptional at providing a safe and secure ride, and when you’re ready to experience safety like never before, the CR-V is waiting to wow you.

Is It Expensive to Maintain a CR-V?

If asked to assign keywords to describe the Honda CR-V, the word practical would definitely make the list. As such, maintaining one is straightforward and as easy as following Honda’s recommended maintenance schedule. While specific requirements change from year to year, several foundational maintenance intervals make up the bulk of the requirements and are spaced out sufficiently to make scheduling service minimally inconvenient.

Honda recommends checking engine oil and coolant at every service appointment, as well as replacing the engine oil and rotating the tires. It also recommends that the oil filter is replaced at every scheduled maintenance interval. Newer CR-Vs follow a convenient and easy-to-remember 10,000-mile service interval.

At every other service interval, Honda suggests a comprehensive multi-point inspection of the following components:

• Front and rear brakes, as well as the parking brake
• Suspension components
• Brake hoses and lines
• All fluids, including condition and fluid levels
• The exhaust system
• All fuel lines
• Other major components, like tie rods

While your CR-V is in for its 30,000, 60,000, 90,000, and 120,000 scheduled maintenance, Honda technicians will inspect the drive belt and provide any necessary adjustments. On the interior, owners will receive a new dust and pollen filter. All CR-Vs will need the transmission fluid replaced at 120,000 miles as well. While not specifically mentioned in the CR-V’s owner’s manual, tire inspections should also be on the list.

With regular use (versus operation as a rideshare vehicle or in some other heavy-duty capacity) and adherence to Honda’s recommended maintenance schedule, the Honda CR-V delivers a high degree of reliability. Combined with good maintenance habits, CR-V drivers can ensure optimal reliability by practicing safe driving habits and avoiding common behaviors that threaten any vehicle’s longevity. It’s best to ensure the car is at a full stop before switching gears and, whenever possible, accelerate and brake smoothly to minimize wear on the brakes, transmission, and engine.

Financing Your CR-V

The finance center at Gwinnett Place Honda makes it easy to bring a new or used CR-V home with you for a price you can afford. We make it simple to apply for financing, value your trade, and more, all from our easy-to-use website. Get a trade-in estimate in just seconds, view our current specials, and get started on making your dream of owning a CR-V a reality so that you’re one step ahead of the shopping process before you even step foot on our lot. Our finance professionals know that each driver is unique with varying financial situations, which is why we work diligently to ensure your payment plan works with your budget.

We also make it easy to buy or lease your vehicle, whichever option suits you best. For many drivers, choosing to lease is the better option because they would rather enjoy a new car every couple of years with all the latest tech and stylish designs. This is a great choice, especially if you want to have the peace of mind that your vehicle is always covered under warranty as well. With a nice assortment of lease deals and experienced professionals by your side, getting started on leasing a CR-V is a breeze when you partner with us.

For others, it’s important to pay off their vehicle and be able to call it their own. That’s why buying a CR-V works for these drivers. Once all payments have been made, you own the vehicle, and you won’t have to worry about making any more monthly payments. You’ll also get to enjoy lower insurance rates. No matter what you decide, the important thing to keep in mind is that you have options, and Gwinnett Place Honda makes the process quick and efficient, so you’re driving off our lot with the car you’ve always wanted in no time.

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