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An SUV like the Honda CR-V is easy to love – Metro US

An SUV like the Honda CR-V is easy to love

The second-generation Honda CR-V launched in the 2002 model year to battle competitors like the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4 and Hyundai Tucson. With four-wheel drive, plenty of space and a flexible, storage-rich interior, the second-generation model carried on the success of the original CR-V, which launched in 1997.

CR-V came only with four-cylinder power, making it a popular choice with shoppers who prioritize cheap running costs and low fuel consumption. If you’re looking for V6 power or extra towing capacity, you may need to shop elsewhere.

Honda’s proven 2.4 litre i-VTEC four-cylinder engine generated 160 horsepower. A five-speed manual transmission was standard equipment, and ideal for shoppers who prefer to row their own gears. An automatic was also available.

Honda’s Real-Time four-wheel drive (4WD) system was the CR-V’s winter-busting weapon.
It automatically powers all four wheels the instant wheel-slippage is detected, while running only the front wheels otherwise. With four-wheel drive working on an as-needed basis, all-weather confidence and mileage are both maximized.

Note that a later CR-V in this generation (2005 or 2006) benefitted from a driveline update that added a smoother drive-by-wire throttle system and a faster-reacting 4×4 system. Additionally, a five-speed automatic transmission replaced the four-speed unit for better mileage and performance.

When shopping, note that the ‘LX’ trim level is more basic, while ‘EX’ and ‘EX-L’ represent mid-range and loaded trims, respectively.

If reliability, fuel economy and high resale values are priorities for you, the CR-V is one of the market’s leading compact SUV models.

What owners like
Owners love the CR-V’s combination of good mileage, confident year-round operation and its flexible ‘ready for anything’ interior. Other owner-stated positives include good visibility, plenty of storage, easy-to-use controls and a commanding seating position.

What owners hate
Some owners wish for more power, a bigger engine option, and a more exciting interior. Road noise is another common complaint with most CR-V owners in this generation, and bigger drivers will probably wish for wider seats.