Honda CR-V Review

Used Honda CR-V Review

If you’re looking for a cheap to buy but reliable and spacious vehicle that should give you years of trouble-free motoring, then a used Honda CR-V should be an excellent choice.

There are usually very few things wrong with used versions of the vehicle and there have been virtually no reported problems or recalls over the years since the first CR-V model was introduced back in 1995.

In short, there are very many pros and hardly any cons if you’re considering a used CR-V. The used versions offer pretty much everything a new car offers – but at a fraction of the cost.

Perhaps the main thing against the car is that it’s not great off-road and the four-wheel drive system is apt to kick in too often. But as long as you’re not planning to turn off the highway too often, it’s a great choice.

Of course, you don’t get brilliant mileage, but it’s better than most in its class with the 2.0-litre petrol engine returning an average 31mpg; far better, for example, than the 1.8-litre Freelander. Also, the fuel cost is far outweighed by the cheap cost of buying such a quality vehicle second-hand, with prices around £2,400 - £8,500.

The CR-V is very roomy and well equipped with excellent vision all round. Even the oldest and most basic version of the car – the SE model has air-conditioning, all-round electric windows and a good safety kit.

The interior space is excellent; in fact, no other mid-sized SUV 4x4 has more room. The boot space is excellent, and the split-folding back seats give extra space when needed.

Go for the petrol engine versions though. The diesels are rarer, more expensive, don’t offer as smooth a ride, and it will be many years before you’ll make up the differential in the purchase price. All in all, the petrol engine is far more refined. There are, as yet, no hybrid versions available.

The CR-V may not be the absolute cheapest used 4x4, but it’s probably the best quality, and certainly offers far better value for money than its peers.