Honda’s Comfortable Runabout Vehicle: A Buyer’s Guide to the CR-V
October 14 2022 - admin@wikimotive.com
Did you know the Honda CR-V is built on the same platform as the Civic? It's no surprise then that the CR-V embodies everything drivers love about compact crossovers by blending the exceptional performance of Honda’s sedan while adding versatility and spaciousness. If you are in need of a new ride at a more affordable price, then looking for a used Honda CR-V for sale on our lot is a good place to start.
With the CR-V first introduced in North America in 1997, shopping for a used model can be overwhelming. Hondas are renowned for their longevity, making older models with high mileage incredibly enticing to budget-savvy shoppers. However, those who like modern amenities won't be disappointed with the more recent model years. So, where does that leave your search? As a Honda dealer in Minot, we’ve put together a buyer’s guide to help you find the perfect CR-V for your driving, budget, and style needs.
Budget-Savvy Shoppers
Shopping for a used CR-V is a fantastic way to let your money do the heavy lifting for you. How so? The CR-V has a stellar reputation as one of the longest-running and most reliable crossovers in America. Knowing that the CR-V can log over 300,000 miles with routine maintenance makes shopping for an older, more affordable model easy. It also gives budget-savvy shoppers more options to stretch their hard-earned dollars. If you’re one of those shoppers, we recommend looking for a third-generation CR-V built from 2007 to 2011. These CR-Vs are generally priced around $15,000, depending on age and condition, and offer plenty of features. For example, Honda significantly changed the CR-V in 2007 by replacing the side-opening rear door with a liftgate and moving the spare tire to the rear cargo area. The mid-generation facelift in 2010 also introduced more modern styling and a beefier powertrain that didn’t compromise the CR-V’s legendary efficiency. Overall, the third-generation CR-V is a great buy for those looking at Honda SUVs, especially if you can find a model from 2010 or 2011. These models add sophistication and refinement, giving you more bang for your buck. This refinement runs the gamut from premium interior materials to more intuitive technology like the multi-information display and navigation system. Look for top-tier trims like the CR-V EX-L to get the most for your money. This model features leather seating, heated front seats, automatic headlights, Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition, a rearview camera, and a premium sound system.
Performance-Focused Shoppers
Despite its larger footprint, the CR-V is highly regarded for its agility and ability to blend sedan-like performance with SUV capability. Since it shares the Civic’s platform, this makes sense and adds to the CR-V’s appeal for those looking for an SUV that’s compact, capable, and easy to maneuver. The CR-V delivers all that and more, especially when you look at a 2013 or 2017 model. Honda introduced the fourth-generation CR-V in 2012, giving the compact sport-utility vehicle an updated design and more capability to make it the total package. The fourth generation also debuted Honda’s new 2.4L i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, which boosted the CR-V’s power output to 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque for improved off-the-line acceleration and responsiveness. In addition, Honda allowed drivers to harness this power with ECON mode, which improved the CR-V’s efficiency without dramatically reducing power output. While the 2012 and 2013 CR-V models teased drivers by offering more power and capability, the 2017 CR-V upped the ante and debuted its first-ever turbocharged engine. Honda completely redesigned the CR-V’s powerplant, adding a turbocharged 1.5L direct-injection four-cylinder engine with dual valve timing control under the hood. By pairing the powerplant with Honda’s smooth-shifting continuously variable transmission, the 2017 CR-V delivered on-demand power without the cost of efficiency. The 2013 CR-V offers plenty of power if you’re looking to save money; however, for those willing to spend slightly more, it’s hard to argue with a model like the 2017 CR-V. Beyond the lure of the turbocharged engine, the 2017 CR-V also introduced Honda’s upgraded Real Time all-wheel drive system that enhanced torque delivery to improve performance and control in every driving condition. This update, paired with the CR-V’s MacPherson strut and multi-link rear suspensions, enhanced the SUV's performance, making it more agile, responsive, and engaging to drive.Tech-Savvy Shoppers
Honda has consistently delivered incredible value by equipping every model, from the Civic and CR-V to the Pilot, Ridgeline, and beyond, with innovative features, premium materials, and new technology. For tech-savvy shoppers, this is especially true on fifth-generation models built since 2017 and after the 2020 refresh. For example, the 2017 CR-V expanded the crossover’s already impressive suite of technology by making the Honda Sensing suite standard on mid and top-tier trims. Honda also added several new features to the suite, including the Road Departure Mitigation System and Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow. These features mimic the same technology you’ll find on the newest CR-V. The fifth-generation CR-V also introduced an array of available technology, including automatic high beams, a Driver Attention Monitor, a Rear Cross Traffic Monitor, and a Blind Spot Information System, depending on trim. This technology, found at almost every Honda dealer, gives you the tools to safely and confidently navigate the road ahead, but what if you’re looking for more? You’ll find it after the CR-V’s mid-cycle refresh in 2020, when Honda made these features and numerous others, like automatic emergency braking and lane keeping assist, standard across the lineup. Every fifth-generation CR-V comes with enhanced connectivity features that range from a seven-inch touchscreen display to an updated version of Honda’s Satellite-Linked Navigation System, which Honda developed with Garmin. Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the infotainment system guarantees seamless smartphone integration and voice capability that enhance your focus while putting everything you need within reach or view. The fifth-generation CR-V is an exceptional value for tech-savvy shoppers because, depending on trim, you’ll find an expansive center touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and advanced safety and driver-assist features. Overall, the CR-V’s fifth generation starts with the 2017 model and is followed by a midcycle refresh in 2020 that introduced new standard technology and a hybrid powertrain that added to its allure. This refresh gives the 2020 CR-V a significant advantage, especially among drivers looking for updated technology and a more efficient powertrain that proves fuel-sipping isn’t mutually exclusive with a dynamic driving experience.