One Of America’s Favorite Crossovers
Although the Toyota RAV4 is considered the pioneer of the modern crossover, the various Honda CR-V generations can be considered a strong supporting act. It was first introduced in Japan in 1995, only a year after the original RAV4 arrived on the scene. The name CR-V – for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle” – blended car-like dynamics with superior practicality. The first one also had a real-time four-wheel-drive system, so appealed to those who needed more capability than a Civic. Let’s take a closer look at how this became the brand’s best-selling model in America.
First-Generation (RD1/RD2/RD3) Honda CR-V
The first Honda CR-V generation’s model years were from 1997 to 2001. It was powered by a simple 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 126 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. For 1999, the engine was uprated to 146 hp but torque stayed the same. Five-speed manual and four-speed automatics were available.
The four-wheel double wishbone suspension was unique for SUVs, contributing to the good ride and handling of this model. Up to 67.2 cubic feet of cargo space, a spare tire attached to the tailgate, and a foldout picnic table were other features that established the CR-V as a rugged and reliable family vehicle.
Second-Generation (RD4-RD9) Honda CR-V
Available between the 2002 and 2006 model years, the second-gen CR-V was launched with a larger 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine from Honda’s highly regarded K-Series engine family. It produced 160 hp and 162 lb-ft initially, and transmissions were the same. However, a new five-speed automatic replaced the four-speed unit for 2005. Overall, this is one of the most reliable used Honda CR-Vs you can buy.
This CR-V boasted increased dimensions, slightly more interior space, and available front side airbags. It was this generation that saw the CR-V surpass a million sales in the United States, firmly solidifying its popularity.
Third-Generation (RE1-RE5, RE7) Honda CR-V
Produced between the 2007 and 2011 model years, the third-gen CR-V has a more upscale design. Gone was the rear-mounted spare tire; in its place, this curvier CR-V had a more traditional top-hinged tailgate that was easier to open.
The 2.4-liter engine produced 166 hp and 161 lb-ft initially, increased to 180 hp for the 2010 model year. All third-gen CR-Vs had a five-speed automatic, so this became the first generation to do away with a manual gearbox.
These Honda CR-V years saw the model become America’s top-selling SUV for the first time. However, it was later surpassed by the RAV4.
Fourth-Generation (RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6) Honda CR-V
Between the 2012 and 2016 model years, the fourth-gen Honda CR-V was on sale. Once again, Honda increased power while also improving comfort, safety standards, and efficiency.
A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produced 185 hp/163 lb-ft initially, followed by a new 185-hp/181 lb-ft mill for 2015. It was also 2015 when the CR-V made the switch from a five-speed automatic to a CVT.
Two information screens were initially offered, before the facelifted CR-V received a standard seven-inch display for 2015. For the fifth year in a row, the CR-V was America’s top-selling SUV.
Fifth-Generation (RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6) Honda CR-V
Still a fairly modern crossover, the fifth-gen CR-V was sold between the 2017 and 2022 model years. The powertrains underwent quite a transformation for this CR-V, starting with the introduction of the first turbocharged CR-V. This 1.5-liter engine delivered 190 hp and 179 lb-ft. Initially, a 180-hp 2.4-liter four-pot was still available.
For the 2020 model year, Honda introduced the first CR-V Hybrid. This used a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor to make 212 hp and 232 lb-ft combined. Not only was it punchier than the normal CR-V, but it was more economical, too.
In 2019, across all Honda CR-V generations to be sold, the brand hit five million sales in the USA.
Sixth-Generation (RS) Honda CR-V
The latest and current CR-V is the sixth generation of the crossover. Once again, it’s available in gas and hybrid forms, with the former producing 190 hp and the latter making 204 hp combined. Honda also introduced the CR-V e:FCEV, which can run on hydrogen and produces 174 hp.
The latest CR-V is now one of the most spacious vehicles in its segment, both in terms of passenger and cargo space. It also has a high-quality interior with a nine-inch touchscreen on upper trims. Honda reports that the hybrid now makes up roughly half of all CR-V sales, so we would not be surprised to see the CR-V transition to a fully hybrid range soon, just as the RAV4 has.
Overall, the CR-V proves that the flashiest or most tech-heavy models don’t necessarily appeal most to consumers. It has been a reliable and safe yet quite conservative model since the start, and has evolved under the skin to keep pace with the increasing electrification of the modern vehicle.
About the Author
