Photo: User3204 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Wikimedia Commons
Honda CR-V
SUV · Gas · 38 versions · owner report
Ranked #3 of 26 compact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
0–62 mph (0–100 km/h)
Top speed (180 km/h)
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, particularly for the latest hybrid models (2023-2026).
6 problems reported (3 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentNarrow front seats with pronounced bolsters causing initial discomfort (breaks in over time)
- RecurrentHybrid powertrain noise and struggle on steep highway inclines
With significant engine revving and reduced fuel economy.
- Recurrent1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine issues in older models (pre-2023)
Including oil dilution and head gasket failures.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedSteering system complaints (vibration
Feel) reported for models around the 2022 model year, potentially addressed by a recall (#24V-744).
- IsolatedMinor infotainment lag, particularly with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto
- IsolatedLack of memory side mirrors and some minor HVAC control quirks (e.g., no display for current mode)
The version owners recommend
CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring. This top trim is repeatedly highlighted for its premium Bose sound system, additional sound dampening for a quieter cabin, comprehensive feature set, and the superior hybrid powertrain. Owners of lower trims express envy over features like the digital gauge cluster introduced in the 2026 model year.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota RAV4 (and RAV4 Hybrid), Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-50, Subaru Forester and Hyundai Tucson.
Is the CR-V right for you?
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Overall sentiment
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment, particularly for the latest hybrid models (2023-2026). The vehicle is consistently praised for its exceptional practicality, spacious and high-quality interior, quiet and smooth ride quality, and refined hybrid powertrain. The hybrid system is noted for being seamless, powerful enough for daily driving, and more reliable in perception than the 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine due to its simpler eCVT design and lack of components like a serpentine belt. Long-term reliability and strong resale value are foundational pillars of its reputation, supported by numerous owner anecdotes of older models exceeding 200,000-300,000 miles with minimal major issues. Criticisms are present but minor in comparison to the praise, focusing on specific model-year issues, narrow front seats on newer models, and highway performance in hilly terrain. The consensus positions the CR-V Hybrid as a top-tier, comfortable, and dependable family SUV.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a more refined, comfortable, and spacious alternative to key rivals. Versus the Toyota RAV4, the CR-V is consistently described as quieter, with a smoother ride, superior driving dynamics, and a more spacious interior, though the RAV4 is acknowledged for slightly better fuel economy and stronger brand-driven demand. Compared to Mazda offerings (CX-5, CX-50), the CR-V is seen as more practical with greater cargo space, a softer ride, and better rear-seat headroom, while Mazdas are praised for more engaging driving dynamics and often better interior tech/features at higher trims. Against the Subaru Forester, the CR-V is viewed as having a better reliability track record and lower long-term maintenance costs, while the Forester is recognized for a superior standard AWD system and better visibility. The CR-V Hybrid is frequently noted as being quicker and smoother than its own 1.5L turbo gasoline counterpart.
Recommended configurations
Hybrid powertrain is strongly recommended over the 1.5L turbo gasoline engine for its smoothness, perceived reliability (eCVT vs. CVT, no turbo concerns), and adequate power. All-wheel drive (AWD) is suggested for improved traction and resale. The Sport Touring trim is recommended for maximum comfort and features. For tire replacements, the Pirelli Scorpion AS Plus 3 is specifically recommended by an owner for dramatically improving ride quality and reducing road noise. An extended warranty is suggested by some due to the complexity of the hybrid system, though confidence in its longevity is high.
General recommendations
Ideal for families, long-term owners, and anyone prioritizing reliability, comfort, practicality, and a quiet cabin. Highly recommended for urban and suburban driving where its fuel efficiency shines. Prospective buyers of the gasoline 1.5L turbo model should research model-specific issues like oil dilution and head gasket failures reported in earlier years (pre-2023). For the hybrid, be prepared for slightly lower highway fuel economy (around 33 mpg) in hilly terrain and noticeable engine noise during steep ascents. Test drives should focus on front seat comfort, as the bolstered seats may be narrow for some. Negotiate aggressively, with reports of significant discounts off MSRP being achievable (e.g., a 2024 Sport Touring Hybrid negotiated down to $38,000 out-the-door).
Remarks
Owner feedback clearly delineates between the hybrid and 1.5L turbo gasoline powertrains, with significantly more enthusiasm and confidence directed toward the hybrid system. The positive reputation for reliability is heavily anchored in anecdotes from older, non-turbo generations (e.g., 2000s models), which colors perception of the newer models. The latest hybrid models (2023+) benefit from Honda's long experience with hybrid technology, contributing to high owner satisfaction. Criticisms of the gasoline engine's reliability and the hybrid's highway behavior are noted but do not detract from the overall dominant positive sentiment. Analysis based on owner discussions spanning multiple generations, with concentrated data on 2023-2026 hybrid variants.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2017. Years to avoid: 2023, 2021, 2019, 2018, 2017Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Honda CR-V years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 143 | 0 | unknown or other |
| 2025 | 276 | 4 | steering |
| 2024 | 477 | 4 | steering |
| 2023 | 631 | 7 | steering |
| 2022 | 334 | 6 | steering |
| 2021 | 763 | 5 | steering |
| 2020 | 435 | 9 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2019 | 1,099 | 8 | forward collision avoidance |
| 2018 | 2,141 | 5 | engine |
| 2017 | 1,768 | 7 | engine |
| 2016 | 393 | 3 | engine |
| 2015 | 670 | 3 | engine |
| 2014 | 587 | 1 | engine |
| 2013 | 382 | 2 | engine |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices211 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2025 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 24V763000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and 2025 Honda Civic and Civic Hybrid vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may crack and leak fuel.
2025 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittingscampaign 25V378000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The fuel feed hose may have been improperly installed, allowing fuel to leak. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 301, "Fuel System Integrity."
2025 · tires:temporary/emergency spare tirecampaign 26V366000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2026 CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and 2025-2026 CR-V Fuel Cell EV vehicles. When using the tire repair kit, pressure may build within the sealant bottle, causing the bottle cap to detach.
2024 · tires:markingscampaign 24V508000
Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2024 CR-V vehicles. The tire identification number (TIN) is missing the four-digit date code. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 139, "New Pneumatic Radial Tires for Light Vehicles."
2024 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2024 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 24V763000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and 2025 Honda Civic and Civic Hybrid vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may crack and leak fuel.
2024 · tires:temporary/emergency spare tirecampaign 26V366000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2026 CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and 2025-2026 CR-V Fuel Cell EV vehicles. When using the tire repair kit, pressure may build within the sealant bottle, causing the bottle cap to detach.
2023 · seats:front assembly:reclinercampaign 23V092000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 CR-V vehicles. The front passenger seat back frame may not have been welded properly, which can cause the seat back position to fail in the event of a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 207, "Seating Systems" and 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
2023 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 23V858000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2023 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2023 · power train:automatic transmission:internal:cvtcampaign 23V588000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 CR-V Hybrid and Accord Hybrid vehicles. The electronic transmission may have been improperly manufactured, which can result in a loss of drive power.
2023 · electrical system:propulsion system:traction batterycampaign 24V745000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid vehicles. The high voltage battery modules may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause the battery terminal or busbar to break and spark.
2023 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 24V763000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, 2023-2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and 2025 Honda Civic and Civic Hybrid vehicles. The high-pressure fuel pump may crack and leak fuel.
2023 · tires:temporary/emergency spare tirecampaign 26V366000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2026 CR-V Hybrid, Accord Hybrid, and 2025-2026 CR-V Fuel Cell EV vehicles. When using the tire repair kit, pressure may build within the sealant bottle, causing the bottle cap to detach.
196 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.0i Hybrid
Hybrid · 204 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2022–2026
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