Learn more about this sleek and versatile crossover.
A compact crossover can be a practical choice if you want the versatility and power of an SUV without sacrificing control and handling in the process. And if you're looking for a crossover that's available in a wide range of trim configurations with a standard turbocharged engine, the 2021 Honda CR-V is ready to deliver.
Got questions about the Honda CR-V? We've compiled some answers to commonly asked questions about this popular crossover SUV model in the FAQ section below.
Honda CR-V FAQs
Q: What are the different models of Honda CR-V?
A: The 2021 Honda CR-V is available in five different trim levels. These include the base LX, the Special Edition, the EX, the EX-L, and the range-topping Touring. Each of the trim levels differs in its standard and available equipment.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4 better?
A: Whether the CR-V or the RAV4 is a better vehicle will depend on your personal taste. Both are classified as compact crossover SUVs, though the 2021 CR-V offers nearly two additional cubic feet of cargo space compared to the 2021 RAV4.
Likewise, both vehicles offer seating for up to five people and a four-cylinder engine. However, the engine on the 2021 CR-V is turbocharged.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V a reliable car?
A: The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. According to RepairPal's Reliability Ratings, however, the Honda CR-V receives a 4.5 out of 5 stars for reliability.1 This ranks the CR-V as "excellent" for its class.
Q: Which Honda CR-V should I buy?
A: The Honda CR-V model that is right for you will depend on what kinds of features you're looking for in your compact crossover SUV purchase. The 2021 CR-V is available in five trim configurations, so you can find the one that best suits your needs.
If you're looking for something practical without too many bells and whistles, the base LX trim offers features like automatic climate control and a driver-assistance suite that includes adaptive cruise control, collision-mitigation braking, and lane-departure warning.
Meanwhile, if you're shopping for a CR-V that's decked out, you may want to check out the range-topping Touring trim. This model comes standard with leather upholstery, an upgraded nine-speaker sound system, roof rails, and wireless device charging.
Q: What is the best Honda CR-V?
A: Which Honda CR-V is right for you mainly depends on your individual preferences. If you want a vehicle that has the latest tech, look for a recent model year like the 2021 Honda CR-V with an average CarMax price of $29,998.1 However, if you’re looking for something more affordable, a 2016 Honda CR-V with an average price of $20,819 will have the basics—and be a little easier on your wallet. 1
Q: Which is bigger, the CR-V or HR-V?
A: Overall, the Honda CR-V is larger than the HR-V; the CR-V is classified as a compact crossover SUV, whereas the HR-V is considered a subcompact crossover SUV. Lengthwise, the 2021 CR-V measures 182.1 inches, compared to the 2021 HR-V's 170.4 inches.
In terms of cargo space, the 2021 CR-V offers 39.2 cubic feet with all seats in place, whereas the 2021 HR-V maxes out at 23.2 cubic feet with all seats intact. Both vehicles, however, offer seating for up to five people.
Q: What CR-V model has leather seats?
A: On the 2021 Honda CR-V, leather seats are standard on the EX-L and Touring trims. On all other trim levels, cloth upholstery is standard. 2021 models with leather upholstery, when sold as new, were available in both gray and black color options.
Q: What is the luxury version of the CR-V?
A: The Touring trim is considered to be the 2021 CR-V's "luxury" version, offering standard features like a nine-speaker sound system, a wireless device charger, an integrated navigation system, leather upholstery, roof rails, and a convenient power liftgate.
Q: Does the Honda CR-V have a heated steering wheel?
A: The only trim on the 2021 CR-V that comes standard with a heated steering wheel is the top-of-the-line Touring trim. However, a dealer-installed heated steering wheel was available as an add-on for other trim levels when this vehicle was sold as new.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V any good in snow?
A: Crossover SUVs are designed to handle less-than-ideal terrain, and the 2021 CR-V is no exception. While the 2021 CR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive was available as an option on all models when sold as new.
Models equipped with all-wheel drive will perform more confidently in the snow, as the AWD system will deliver power to both the front and rear wheels as needed. This delivers improved traction and greater control, even in snowy conditions.
Q: What is the most reliable Honda SUV?
A: The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. However, according to RepairPal Reliability Ratings, the most reliable Honda SUV is the HR-V.2
Specifically, this model receives a five out of five score for reliability, with an average annual repair cost of just $288.2
Q: What cars are similar to the Honda CR-V?
A: The Honda CR-V, which is classified as a compact crossover SUV, has many competitors. Some examples of these include the Toyota RAV4, the Nissan Rogue, and the Subaru Forester. All of these models are similar in size and offer the same seating capacity as the CR-V.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V full-time all-wheel drive?
A: The 2021 CR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive. However, all-wheel drive was available as an option on every trim when this model was sold as new. On models equipped with all-wheel drive, a full-time AWD system is in place that sends power to both the front and rear wheels as needed.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V EX or LX better?
A: On the 2021 model, the EX is ranked as a higher trim level, offering more standard features. For example, the EX comes with some equipment that the LX does not, such as a sunroof, larger 18-inch wheels, a blind-spot-monitoring system, and tinted rear windows.
Q: How much should I pay for a Honda CR-V?
A: Many factors can affect the price of a used Honda CR-V, including mileage and trim. However, according to CarMax data, the average price of a 2021 Honda CR-V is $29,998.1 Meanwhile, the average CarMax price for an earlier 2018 model is $25,340.1
Q: What does CR-V stand for?
A: According to a Honda dealership website in Santa Maria, CA, the "CR-V" stands for "Compact Recreational Vehicle." This model has had the same name since its 1995 debut, although most people today simply understand this class of car as a compact crossover SUV.
Q: Is the Honda CR-V a 4WD?
A: No, the 2021 CR-V does not come standard with four-wheel drive. Front-wheel drive is standard across all 2021 CR-V trim levels, although all-wheel drive was available as an add-on for all trim levels when the vehicle was sold as new.
Q: What is the price of a Honda CR-V?
A: Price will vary based on model year, mileage, and other factors. According to CarMax data, a 2021 CR-V sells for an average of $29,998. Meanwhile, a used 2019 Honda CR-V sells for an average of $27,471 and an earlier 2015 model sells for $19,101.2
Q: What is the difference between a Honda CR-V LX and SE?
A: On the 2021 CR-V, the LX and SE vary in their standard equipment. Specifically, the SE (Special Edition) trim comes with several features that the base LX does not. This includes heated front seats, smartphone integration, a seven-inch touchscreen display, and available remote start.3
Shop For a Used Honda CR-V at CarMax
Interested in making a used Honda CR-V your next vehicle? Find out more about this popular compact crossover and explore our current used inventory at CarMax.
