- Prices have improved on the 2013 Honda CR-V
- LX models have been more difficult to find recently
Honda's CR-V has been a hallmark of crossover practicality for years. The fourth generation of one of the best-selling cars in its class was released for 2012 and comes with a host of refinements over the previous model. But the CR-V remains a spacious five-seater with a large cargo area and powered by an efficient four-cylinder, available with either front or all-wheel drive. It's an ideal choice for a small family that must haul bulky items like strollers, or for people who simply want cargo flexibility but don't want to step up to a larger SUV.
Introduction
All CR-Vs get a 2.4-liter four-cylinder with 185 horsepower mated to a five-speed automatic. That pair gets the CR-V 31 MPG on the highway with front-wheel drive and 30 MPG with all-wheel drive. All models are rated to tow 1,500 lbs. The base LX comes with power windows, mirrors and locks with remote entry, air conditioning, USB input for the four-speaker audio system, Bluetooth and Honda's i-MID system which incorporates phone and audio functions and also allows for streaming music from a Pandora app. EX adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a power sunroof, alarm and privacy glass. EX-L gets leather seats, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver's seat, heated side mirrors and dual-zone automatic climate control. The EX-L is also available with a DVD Rear Entertainment System or a touchscreen navigation system. The CR-V has 37.2 cubic feet of cargo room with the rear seats up, 70.9 with them folded. Both numbers rank high for the class.
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Read more »Which Style To Buy?
2012 Honda CR-V EX
Recommended for: people who want a little more style in their CR-V
The EX adds more flash to the essentials in the LX. Outside, there are 17-inch alloy wheels and privacy glass. Inside, passengers can enjoy the power sunroof as well as the security of the alarm system.
2012 Honda CR-V EX-L
Recommended for: shoppers looking for the CR-V with all of the luxury features
The EX-L is the top-of-the-line CR-V, starting with leather seats that are heated in front. There is a standard, 10-way power driver's seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Heated power outside mirrors, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control and satellite radio complete the EX-L's standard package. Offered as optional are a DVD Rear Entertainment System or a touchscreen navigation system with FM traffic and steering wheel-mounted map controls and voice commands.
2012 Honda CR-V LX
Recommended for: people who want a well-priced, spacious crossover
The LX comes equipped with many popular features. It gets the ubiquitous 2.4-liter four-cylinder and five-speed automatic. Standard features include 16-inch steel wheels, auto off headlamps, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and locks with remote entry, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a backup camera. Honda's i-MID system allows drivers to control Bluetooth and radio functions for the four-speaker system with USB input. Streaming audio is standard, as is iPod connectivity.
Is It a Good Time to Buy?
Good Deals Available
Best Alternatives
2012 Ford Escape
Turbo engines and loads of technology, but can get very expensive.
2012 Kia Sportage
Stylish and well-priced, but has a much smaller rear seat and cargo area.
2013 Mazda CX-5
Most fuel efficient crossover, but isn't as spacious.
2012 Toyota RAV4
Available V6 and third-row seat, but isn't as up-to-date as competition.
