Seating for up to 5 with cargo room to spare for long trips, the CR-V continues to impress with its excellent build quality and solid feel, making it one of the top picks in the crossover class.
Introduction
The small-size crossover SUV market is flooded with a variety of attractive choices, but the Honda CR-V does a great job separating itself from its brethren. The CR-V was redesigned in 2012, and what worked last year continues to remain effective in 2013. Working the CR-V’s favor is Honda’s history of reliability and performance, and the willingness of Honda to listen to consumers. The result is a small compact SUV ideally suited for families with sufficient cargo space and a comfortable ride.
The CR-V is powered by a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine that produces 185 horsepower and 163 foot-pound of torque. Unfortunately, this is the biggest drawback to the 2013 model. However, the single engine choice is reliable, and gets an economical 23 MPG/city and 31 MPG/hwy (on front wheel drive models), but the lack of a six-cylinder engine is problematic for those seeking a bit more quickness. Front-wheel drive is standard, and the powertrain is monitored by a five-speed automatic. All-wheel drive is optional, and definitely a worthy choice of an upgrade.
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Which Style To Buy?
2013 Honda CR-V LX
Recommended for: Families in search of dependability and safety in a small-sized SUV
The base LX model is powered by a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine which produces 185 horsepower and 163 foot-pound of torque. Its sufficiently equipped with: four-speaker sound system, CD player, Bluetooth, streaming audio, tilt and telescoping steering, 16-inch wheels, keyless entry, air conditioning, steering wheel audio controls, full power accessories, adjustable driver seat, rearview camera, 6-inch display screen, auxiliary input jack, iPod interface, and a Pandora interface. Options are limited and mostly purchased by upgrading the trim level.
Safety features include: back-up camera, antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, front and side airbags, side curtain airbags, and active front head restraints.
2013 Honda CR-V EX
Recommended for: Crossover SUV drivers wanting a bit more privacy
The EX is basically the same vehicle as the LX, with a few minor exceptions. Gone are the 16-inch wheels and in their place are 17-inch alloy wheels. There’s also an addition of a sunroof, rear privacy glass, fog lights, and a retractable (and highly useful) cargo cover. In addition the four speaker sound system is upgraded to a six speaker system.
2013 Honda CR-V EX-L
Most PopularRecommended for: Drivers desiring a small crossover SUV with loads of interior options
The EX-L has all the same base features as the EX and LX. In addition buyers get: heated side mirrors, an eight way power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, power lumbar support in the driver’s seat, leather interior, seven speaker sound system with satellite radio, and heated front seats. Options include a Navigation packages which adds a navigation system with voice control, and a Rear Entertainment package which includes a rear DVD system. However, the Navigation package and the Rear Entertainment package cannot be purchased in conjunction with one another.
Best Alternatives
2013 Ford Escape
Six-speed transmission, great fuel economy, tons of features, but options are expensive
2013 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport
Loads of features and options, spacious interior, but base engine is lacking
2013 Mazda CX-5
Attractive exterior package, good fuel economy, but many interior options are average at best
2013 Kia Sorento
Lots of standard features, fun to drive, with an optional V6 engine
