The Honda CR-V has been a dominant force in the compact SUV market since its inception in the late 1990s. For over two decades, each of the Honda CR-V generations has brought updates and improvements, cementing its place as a favorite among families and individuals alike. Let’s delve into the history of the CR-V and explore how each generation has evolved.
6th Generation Honda CR-V (RS, 2023-Present)
The latest iteration, the sixth generation CR-V, continues Honda’s commitment to innovation and refinement. Mirroring the design language of the newest Honda Accord, this generation maintains the popular 1.5L turbo-four engine producing 190 horsepower, paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). However, the hybrid variant marks a significant step forward with an all-new powertrain. This advanced hybrid system features Honda’s innovative dual-speed transmission. While the 2.0L gasoline engine can directly power the wheels in certain situations, its primary role is to act as a generator for the electric motors. This setup delivers a combined output of 204 horsepower, prioritizing efficiency and a more engaging driving experience compared to traditional CVTs.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas (Hybrid) | Dual-Speed Transmission | All-Wheel Drive |
Sixth Generation CR-V Production Years:
2024 Honda CR-V Review
2023 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RS LX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RS EX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RS EX-L | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RS Sport Hybrid | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas (Hybrid) | Dual-Speed Transmission | AWD |
| RS Touring Hybrid | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas (Hybrid) | Dual-Speed Transmission | AWD |
5th Generation Honda CR-V (RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6, 2017-2022)
The fifth generation CR-V brought about a significant redesign in 2017. Initially, it carried over the familiar 2.4L naturally aspirated engine producing 184 horsepower. However, a major addition was the introduction of a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine. This new engine, boasting 190 horsepower, offered improved mid-range torque and fuel efficiency, marking the debut of turbocharging in the Honda CR-V generations. Both Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD) remained available, and the CVT became the sole transmission choice.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
Fifth Generation CR-V Production Years:
2019 Honda CR-V Review
2018 Honda CR-V Review
2017 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 LX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 EX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 EX-L | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 Touring | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
5th Gen Facelift (2020-2022)
The facelifted fifth generation CR-V, introduced in 2020, streamlined the engine options. The 2.4L engine was discontinued, and a 2.0L hybrid powertrain was added to the lineup. This hybrid variant delivered a combined 212 horsepower and was exclusively available with AWD, further enhancing the CR-V’s appeal in a growing market segment.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas (Hybrid) | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | All-Wheel Drive |
2022 Honda CR-V Review
2021 Honda CR-V Review
2020 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 LX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 Special Edition | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 EX | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 EX-L | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 Touring | 1.5L Turbo Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RW1-RW8, RT5-RT6 Hybrid | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas (Hybrid) | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | AWD |
4th Generation Honda CR-V (RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6, 2012-2016)
The fourth generation CR-V, launched in 2012, featured a completely new exterior design while retaining the reliable 2.4L engine from the previous generation. This engine was slightly uprated to produce 185 horsepower. The transmission remained a 5-speed automatic, and drivetrain options included Front-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive, and All-Wheel Drive, depending on the trim and market.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
Fourth Generation CR-V Production Years:
2014 Honda CR-V Review
2013 Honda CR-V Review
2012 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 LX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 EX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 EX-L | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4, AWD |
4th Gen Facelift (2015-2016)
The 2015 facelift for the fourth generation brought about notable improvements. The 2.4L engine received direct fuel injection, enhancing fuel efficiency while maintaining the 185 horsepower output. A significant change was the replacement of the 5-speed automatic transmission with a more fuel-efficient CVT, aligning the CR-V with modern transmission trends.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
Honda CR-V 4th Generation Front View
Honda CR-V 4th Generation 2012-2016 Review
Learn more about the fourth generation Honda CR-V.
Fourth Generation CR-V Facelift Production Years:
2016 Honda CR-V Review
2015 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 LX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 SE | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 EX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 EX-L | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
| RM1-RM4, RE5-RE6 Touring | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) | FWD, AWD |
3rd Generation Honda CR-V (RE1-RE5, RE7, 2007-2011)
The third generation Honda CR-V, introduced in 2007, marked a significant leap in refinement and practicality compared to its predecessors. Honda replaced the previous 2.0L engine with a larger 2.4L four-cylinder unit producing 166 horsepower. A 5-speed automatic transmission was standard, and buyers could choose between Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive. This generation prioritized a more car-like driving experience and enhanced interior comfort.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive |
Third Generation CR-V Production Years:
2009 Honda CR-V Review
2008 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RE1-RE5, RE7 LX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
| RE1-RE5, RE7 EX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
| RE1-RE5, RE7 EX-L | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
3rd Gen Facelift (2010-2011)
The mid-cycle refresh for the third generation CR-V in 2010 included a power bump for the 2.4L engine, increasing output to 180 horsepower. The facelift also brought updated styling, both inside and out, and added more standard equipment, enhancing the value proposition of the CR-V.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | Front-Wheel Drive, Four-Wheel Drive |
Third Generation CR-V Facelift Production Years:
2011 Honda CR-V Review
2010 Honda CR-V Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| RE1-RE5, RE7 LX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
| RE1-RE5, RE7 SE | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
| RE1-RE5, RE7 EX | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
| RE1-RE5, RE7 EX-L | 2.4L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Automatic | FWD, 4X4 |
2nd Generation Honda CR-V (RD4-RD9, 2002-2006)
The second generation Honda CR-V, launched in 2002, featured a larger body, offering more interior space. Despite the increased size, Honda opted to stick with a four-cylinder engine, resisting the trend of some competitors offering V6 options. This generation focused on practicality and fuel efficiency.
2nd Gen Facelift (2005-2006)
The 2005 facelift for the second generation brought styling updates, enhanced safety features, and an upgrade to a 5-speed automatic transmission, improving the driving experience and refinement.
1st Generation Honda CR-V (RD1-RD3, 1997-2001)
The original Honda CR-V debuted in the late 1990s and quickly resonated with American buyers, establishing a strong foundation for its continued success. This first generation emphasized car-like handling and practicality in a compact SUV package.
1st Gen Facelift (2000-2001)
The facelifted first generation CR-V, introduced in 2000, featured subtle styling revisions and improvements, keeping the original model fresh and competitive in the evolving SUV market.
Honda CR-V 1st Generation Front Angle
Honda CR-V 1st Generation 1997-2001 Review
Discover the origins of the Honda CR-V and its first-generation features.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in the late 90s to the sophisticated and technologically advanced models of today, the Honda CR-V generations showcase a remarkable evolution. Each generation has built upon the success of its predecessor, consistently delivering a blend of practicality, reliability, and efficiency that has made the CR-V a perennial best-seller in the competitive SUV segment. Whether you are interested in the early models or the latest iterations, understanding the history of the Honda CR-V generations provides valuable insight into its enduring appeal.
