Honda CR-V - Generation 3.2 (2010-2012)

HONDA CR-V (2010-2012)

A mid-life cycle gave the CR-V some exterior change and the lower models were treated to goodies that were previously available in the high end model. One additional variant is the 2.0 Modulo which has a 2.0 engine but some equipment of the 2.4 S-X.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 3.1 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	2.4 S-X	2.0 S Modulo	2.0 S
Years Available	January 2010-April 2012	January 2011-2012	January 2010-April 2012
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	K24Z 2.4 DOHC 16V I4	R20A 2.0 DOHC 16V I4	R20A 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	170hp @ 5,800rpm	150hp @ 4,200rpm	150hp @ 4,200rpm
Torque	231Nm @ 4,200rpm	197Nm @ 4,200rpm	197Nm @ 4,200rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters	58 Liters	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,530mm	4,530mm	4,530mm
Width	1,820mm	1,820mm	1,820mm
Height	1,680mm	1,680mm	1,680mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm	2,620mm	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,600kg	1,505kg	1,475kg (MT), 1,505kg (AT)
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc
Tires	225/65 R17	225/65 R17	225/65 R17
Wheels	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	4	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction/Stability Control	Yes, Vehicle Stability Assist	None	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: None	Adds: None	Rear Parking Sensors
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	Front	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: HID Headlamps	Adds: Chrome Door Handles, Modulo Front and Rear Lower Garnish, Base Carrier, and Tail Pipe Finisher	Body Color Grille with Chrome Bar, Side Mirror Signal Repeaters
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Leather	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Overhead Console with Mirror, Illuminated Vanity mirrors	Adds: Under Seat Tray, Outside Temperature Gauge, Sun Visors, Double Deck Cargo	LED Gauges, Silver Accents, 40/20/40 Fold Second Row, Multi Information Display
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors with Fold	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Automatic, Dual	Automatic, Dual	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3/WMA/AUX/USB	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3/WMA/AUX/USB	AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA/AUX/USB
Speakers	6	6	4
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio	Yes, Audio	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes
NOTES		Although the fourth generation CR-V was launched in April 2012, some Modulo units were available until September 2012.
RIVALS	Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda CX-7, Mitsubishi ASX, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4

Honda CR-V - Generation 3.1 (2007-2009)

HONDA CR-V (2007-2009)

The third generation model had numerous changes compared to its predecessor that includes a switch to a conventional liftgate, the spare tire is underneath, and it is smaller in all dimensions. While the engines are similar, they are different in terms of power and torque.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 3,2 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	2.4 S-X	2.0 S
Years Available	March 2007-January 2010	March 2007-January 2010
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	K24Z 2.4 DOHC 16V I4	R20A 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	170hp @ 5,800rpm	150hp @ 4,200rpm
Torque	231Nm @ 4,200rpm	197Nm @ 4,200rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Automatic	6-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,530mm	4,530mm
Width	1,820mm	1,820mm
Height	1,680mm	1,680mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,600kg	1,475kg (MT), 1,505kg (AT)
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Solid Disc	Solid Disc
Tires	225/65 R17	225/65 R17
Wheels	17 Inch Alloy	17 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	4	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction/Stability Control	Yes, Vehicle Stability Assist	None
Other Safety Features	Adds: Rear Parking Sensors	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: HID Headlamps, Chrome Lower Front Grille	Black Lower Front Grille, Side Mirror Signal Repeaters
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt/Telescopic	Tilt/Telescopic
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Under Seat Tray, Outside Temperature Gauge	Optitron Gauges, Silver Accents, 60/40 Fold Second Row, Multi Information Display
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Automatic, Dual	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3/WMA/AUX	AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA/AUX
Speakers	6	4
Steering Wheel Controls	Yes, Audio	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes
NOTES
RIVALS	Chevrolet Captiva, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4

Honda CR-V - Generation 2.2 (2005-2007)

HONDA CR-V (2005-2007)

For 2005, the CR-V receives a revised exterior trim, a new engine and transmission for the 4WD, and some interior revisions. For 2006, the 4x2 5 seater had a price drop but with some equipment deletion.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 2.1 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	4x4	4x2 8/10 Seater	4x2 5 Seater/Select
Years Available	March 2005-March 2007	March 2005-March 2007	March 2005-March 2007
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	K24A 2.4 DOHC 16V I4	K20A4 2.0 DOHC 16V I4	K20A4 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	160hp @ 5,500rpm	150hp @ 6,500rpm	150hp @ 6,500rpm
Torque	222Nm @ 4,500rpm	194Nm @ 4,000rpm	194Nm @ 4,000rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Manual, 5-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters	58 Liters	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,535mm	4,535mm	4,535mm
Width	1,780mm	1,780mm	1,780mm
Height	1,710mm	1,710mm	1,710mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm	2,620mm	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,460kg (MT), 1,490kg (AT)	1,430kg (MT), 1,460kg (AT)	1,425kg or 1,420kg (MT), 1,455kg or 1,440kg (AT)
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	8	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Solid Disc	Solid Disc	Solid Disc
Tires	215/65 R16	215/65 R16	215/65 R16
Wheels	16 Inch Alloy	16 Inch Alloy	16 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist	None or Yes
Traction/Stability Control	None	None	None
Other Safety Features	None	None	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	None	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Body Sticker	Adds: Spare Tire Cover	Body Color Bumpers, Chrome Door Handles, Spare Tire Cover, Rear Wiper
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Front Underseat Tray. Deletes: Third Row Seat	Adds: Foldable Third Row	Instrument Panel Cup Holder, 60/40 Fold Second Row, Pass Through Cabin, Water Proof Cargo Floor, Picnic Table
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Automatic	Automatic	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3	AM/FM/6 CD/MP3 or AM/FM/CD/MP3
Speakers	4	4	4
Steering Wheel Controls	None	None	None
Alarm	Yes	Yes	Yes
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes
NOTES			Renamed to Select in March 2006. Curb weight reduced in March 2006. ABS brakes, spare tire cover, instrument panel cup holder, six disc changer removed in March 2006.
RIVALS	5 Seater Models: Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Kia Sorento, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4	8 and 10 Seater Models: Ford Everest, Isuzu Crosswind, Mitsubishi Adventure, Toyota Innova

Honda CR-V - Generation 2.1 (2002-2005)

HONDA CR-V (2002-2005)

For the second generation model, the CR-V was sold with three rows of seats that can accommodate 10 people (it was oddly classified as an AUV). Later on, a strict five seater and a 4x4 model came to the picture with the 10 reduced to eight. All variants have a 2.0 gasoline that can be had with either manual or automatic.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 2.2 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	4x4	4x2 8/10 Seater	4x2 5 Seater
Years Available	October 2003-March 2005	April 2002-March 2005	January 2004-March 2005
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	K20A4 2.0 DOHC 16V I4	K20A4 2.0 DOHC 16V I4	K20A4 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	150hp @ 6,500rpm	150hp @ 6,500rpm	150hp @ 6,500rpm
Torque	194Nm @ 4,000rpm	194Nm @ 4,000rpm	194Nm @ 4,000rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection	i-VTEC Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters	58 Liters	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,535mm	4,535mm	4,535mm
Width	1,780mm	1,780mm	1,780mm
Height	1,710mm	1,710mm	1,710mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm	2,620mm	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,460kg (MT), 1,490kg (AT)	1,430kg (MT), 1,460kg (AT)	1,425kg (MT), 1,455kg (AT)
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Front Wheel Drive
Seating	5	8 or 10	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut	McPherson Strut
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Disc	Disc	Disc
Tires	205/70 R15	205/70 R15	205/70 R15
Wheels	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist	Yes, With Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist
Traction/Stability Control	None	None	None
Other Safety Features	None	None	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	Front	None	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Body Color Bumpers and Side Mouldings, Spare Tire Cover, Body Stickers	Adds: None	Black Door Handles and Side Mirrors
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Leather	Urethane	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Front Bucket Seats, Front Underseat Tray, Silver Accents, Front Center Console Table	Adds: Foldable Third Row	60/40 Fold Second Row, Pass Through Cabin, Water Proof Cargo Floor, Picnic Table
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Manual	Manual	Manual
Audio System	Upgraded AM/FM/CD	AM/FM/Cassette/CD	AM/FM/Cassette/CD
Speakers	4	4	4
Steering Wheel Controls	None	None	None
Alarm	None	None	None
Keyless Entry	Yes	Yes	Yes
NOTES		Downgraded to 8 seating function in January 2004.
RIVALS	5 Seater Models: Ford Escape, Kia Sorento, Mazda Tribute, Mitsubishi Outlander, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4	8 and 10 Seater Models: Ford Everest, Isuzu Crosswind, Mitsubishi Adventure, Toyota Revo

Honda CR-V - Generation 1.2 (1999-2002)

HONDA CR-V (1999-2002)

While it may still have the same face (try to look harder), it does have a new engine under the hood. The 150hp in the 2.0 engine comes standard and an upgrade from the 126hp of the older model. Other than that, an optional Sound Cruiser package can be had and an orange color for a fee.

See the overview of this CR-V

See the Generation 1.1 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	CRV/Sound Cruiser
Years Available	Regular Model: June 1999-March 2002. Sound Cruiser: 2000-2002
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	B20Z 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	150hp @ 6,300rpm
Torque	186Nm @ 4,500rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,511mm
Width	1,750mm
Height	1,674mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,430kg
Body Style	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive
Seating	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Drum
Tires	205/70 R15
Wheels	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	None
Traction/Stability Control	None
Other Safety Features	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	None
Other Exterior Features	Roof Rail, Rear Wiper, Rear Mounted Spare Tire. Sound Cruiser Adds: Body Stickers, Two Tone Paint
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual
Seating Material	Fabric
Other Interior Features	60/40 Fold Rear Seat, Cargo Floor Bucket, Picnic Table, Front Passenger Armrest, Tail Gate Outlet
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/Cassette/CD
Speakers	4. Sound Cruiser Adds: Roof Mounted Speaker and Subwoofer
Steering Wheel Controls	None
Alarm	None
Keyless Entry	None
NOTES
RIVALS	Kia Sportage, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4

Honda CR-V - Generation 1.1 (1997-1999)

HONDA CR-V (1997-1999)

Honda's first in-house designed SUV (the Passport is based on an Isuzu), the CR-V is technically the in-between when it comes to size and price. This vehicle is based on the Civic but with added height and a four wheel drive system.

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See the Generation 1.2 model

See the latest model of the CR-V

OWNERSHIP DETAILS	Limited Edition	CRV
Years Available	Available in Late 1998	October 1997-June 1999
ENGINE SPECS
Engine	B20B 2.0 DOHC 16V I4	B20B 2.0 DOHC 16V I4
Horsepower	126hp @ 5,400rpm	126hp @ 5,400rpm
Torque	180Nm @ 4,800rpm	180Nm @ 4,800rpm
Fuel Type	Gasoline/93 Octane	Gasoline/93 Octane
Fuel System	Electronic Fuel Injection	Electronic Fuel Injection
Transmission	5-Speed Manual	5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic
Fuel Tank Capacity	58 Liters	58 Liters
DIMENSIONS
Length	4,511mm	4,511mm
Width	1,750mm	1,750mm
Height	1,674mm	1,674mm
Wheelbase	2,620mm	2,620mm
Curb Weight	1,430kg	1,430kg
Body Style	5 Door SUV	5 Door SUV
Engine/Drive Type	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive	Front Engine/Four Wheel Drive
Seating	5	5
SUSPENSION & TIRES
Front Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Rear Suspension	Double Wishbone	Double Wishbone
Front Brakes	Vented Disc	Vented Disc
Rear Brakes	Drum	Drum
Tires	205/70 R15	205/70 R15
Wheels	15 Inch Alloy	15 Inch Alloy
SAFETY
Airbags	2	2
Anti-Lock Brakes	None	None
Traction/Stability Control	None	None
Other Safety Features	None	None
EXTERIOR
Fog Lamps	None	None
Other Exterior Features	Adds: Limited Edition Sticker, Exhaust Pipe Finisher, Chrome Side Mirror, Side Protector Tape	Roof Rail, Rear Wiper, Rear Mounted Spare Tire
INTERIOR
Steering Wheel Adjustment	Tilt	Tilt
Steering Wheel Material	Urethane	Urethane
Seating Adjustment	Manual	Manual
Seating Material	Leather	Fabric
Other Interior Features	Adds: Wood Console Panel	60/40 Fold Rear Seat, Cargo Floor Bucket, Picnic Table, Front Passenger Armrest, Tail Gate Outlet
CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Power Amenities	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors	Steering, Windows, Door Locks, Mirrors
Climate Control	Manual	Manual
Audio System	AM/FM/Cassette/CD	AM/FM/Cassette/CD
Speakers	4	4
Steering Wheel Controls	None	None
Alarm	None	None
Keyless Entry	None	None
NOTES
RIVALS	Kia Sportage, Suzuki Vitara, Toyota RAV4

Car Profiles - Honda CR-V (2012-Current)

2012-Current Honda CR-V

The Good: Interior space, practicality

The Bad: Limited rear visibility

The Say: The magic of the CR-V is still there.

Go For: 2.4 LX
Avoid: 

Price Range: P920,000-P1,250,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: None as of the Moment
Latest vehicle profile: Honda CR-V

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2012, Japan
2013-2014, Thailand

Car Profiles - Honda CR-V (2007-2012)

2007-2012 Honda CR-V

The Good: Great interior room, available six speed stick shift

The Bad: Noisy at three digit speeds, lacks a diesel engine

The Say: Perfect for all lifestyles, big or small.

Go For: 2.0S MT
Avoid: 2.0 Modulo

Price Range: P600,000-P900,000
Our Rating: ****

Related Review: Used Car Review - Honda CR-V (2007-2012)
Latest vehicle profile: Honda CR-V

See the different versions of this vehicle:
2007-2009
2010-2012

Used Car Review - Honda CR-V (2007-2012)

Searching the used car landia for a good compact SUV? The used car mother and Myk Belmonte gives you this car for your consideration.

2007-2012 Honda CR-V

History
Flashback to March 2007, it was my grade school graduation and it was one time at a local magazine stand I spied a car magazine having the third generation CR-V on it, which I dismissed it as "pangit". Yes, I used to see CR-V's with spare tire covers at the back and having boxy shape. But then, it became a runaway best seller despite being pricey than the Escape and the Tucson.

People change, same with cars and it is the same with the third generation CR-V, code-named RE. No rear spare wheel is present but I do not miss the side opening rear door that is a liability inside shopping malls and  in limited spaces. But some things do not change like the walk through center rear seat and the availability of both engines in the same displacements but with the transmissions being boosted to 6 and 5 speeds for the manual and automatic respectively. 2012 was the last year that people can purchase this generation of CR-V.

Filipinos had been fans of this compact SUV since its 1998 introduction but this generation had mixed reactions when it was introduced in 2007. Sure, it did not posses boxes but the curves appealed to lady drivers. It may not have a third row (the previous one was slapped on for the sake of taxation purposes) seat since Fortuners had been driving dealership floors like pancakes. But after the 2010 facelift, sales were in favor of the newly introduced Tucson and the affordable Escape. 2012 had the RM CR-V launched and from start, a 2WD model with a manual and automatic and a AWD that can be paired with an AT are available. A Modulo variant based from the 2WD AT can be purchased from 2011.

Value and Costs
Need a budget crossover that delivers the goods? A quick browse in the online and newspaper classified ads reveals that third gen CR-V prices are between P600,000-P900,000. If possible, try to scout for a unit sold from the middle of 2010 (earlier ones may have been expired as you read this) or later to get the remainder of the warranty.

There is no need to worry about the maintenance costs of Hondas, since you can have your preventive maintenance schedule every 10,000kms, which can be translated at one or two visits to the dealer. Otherwise, owning one is not expensive and parts are affordable.

Exterior and Interior
From launch (or even in some photos floating in the net) the third generation CR-V had some critics love or loathe the design. Let's first deal with those who say it is beautiful, the shorter wheelbase contributed to the sporty aura together with the swooping windows and the creased doors. However, those who dismissed as ugly had a point. The rear saw the birth to a liftgate style but retained the pilar tail lamps, reminiscent to the Ssangyong Stavic. However the snout garnered the controversy due tot he two-tier grille and the lower portion of the grille had been extended, looking like an angler fish. Things went smoother with a Modulo body kit option, but then stock or not, looks can be debatable.

If there is one reason why this CR-V sold well, it is due to the expansive interior room and top-notch interior quality, with the latter being an improvement from the second generation CR-V. Passengers wont complain of less head or leg room due to the huge space and the walk through area in between the front seats. Soft plastics replaced the China feeling ones and this is one accomplishment. Some things stay the same like the location of the controls, which is a good trait from Honda. There is the fuel consumption gauge that you and the missus can argue who consumes more fuel.

Engine
Two new engines had been introduced and from the bottom is the R20A 1,997cc gasoline that has 150hp at 4,200rpm and 197Nm at 4,200rpm while those who want to be on the top can choose the K24Z 2,354cc with 170hp at 5,800rpm and 231Nm at 4,200rpm. If there is one engine and tranny combo to pick, it is the 2.0S MT with 6-speeds (yes, you read it right). Why? You can get the redline to reach 6,800rpm on the highway plus more gears means excellent fuel efficiency. The 2.4 engine provides extra power for overtaking but a heavy foot is the requirement if you need to speed up.

Driving Impressions
Driving dynamics can be summed up in two words, safe and predictable. Since Honda wanted this crossover to perform like a car than an SUV, so they forgo with off-road performance with road comfort. Steering is balanced and in twisted ways, there is minimal body roll. However, noise is heard especially on the three digit territory.

Verdict
For the price of a brand new sedan, you can acquire a three to five year old third gen CR-V, especially if the roads that you pass are flood prone, full of potholes, or need some security in the beaten path. And the good thing is that, it is below a million bucks, which makes it a good bargain.



The Good:

• Roomy cabin
• Cargo carrying is excellent
• Available six-speed stick shift

The Bad:

• Looks are not for everyone
• Somewhat noisy at highway speeds
• No diesel option

The Pick: Best enjoyed with the 2.0 S MT

THE SPECS

Engines: 1,997cc R20A and 2,354cc K24Z I4 gasoline

Power: 150hp @ 4,200rpm (2.0), 170hp @ 5,800rpm (2.4)

Torque: 197Nm @ 4,200rpm (2.0), 231Nm @ 4,200rpm (2.4)

Fuel Consumption: 7-10km/L (city), 9-12km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)

Transmission: 6-speed manual, 5-speed automatic

Suspension: Front independent McPherson strut, rear independent double wishbone

MORE INFO

Price (New): P1,225,000-P1,575,000

Price (Now): P600,000-P900,000
Rivals: Chevrolet Captiva, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mazda Tribute, Mazda CX-7, Mitsubishi Outlander, Mitsubishi ASX, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester, Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4
On Sale: 2007-2012
Resources: 
http://www.crvownersclub.com/index.php
http://www.hondasuv.com/members/

Contacts:
Honda Cars Quezon Avenue - (02) 712-6850
Honda Cars Pasig - (02) 988-1288
Honda Cars Global City - (02) 777-8111

Photos courtesy of http://sulit.com.ph/8087700