I just test drove a 2002 CR-V. My wife drove it home to show it to me. Anyhow, the thing had NO front seat arm rests!! Does Honda not equip the 5 speed with arm rests for ergonomic reasons relative to the stick stift? I found this disappointing.
Edmund's sums the Aztek up succinctly: "Although functional as a minivan/sport-utility crossover, the Aztek's repulsive styling and weak engine still relegate it to second-class status as a family vehicle."
If you truly are a glutton for punishment, quit trolling here and start a "CR-V vs. Aztek" thread. It'll be a gas.
Compared the passenger interior volume of 2002 CRV with other SUVs classified as Mid-sized SUVs. These included the Toyota Highlander, 4Runner, Honda Passport, Isuzu Rodeo, Nissna Pathfinder and Lexus RX300. The interior passenger volume of the CRV was larger than all and just slight smaller than the Highalander and RX300 (looking at front/rear headroom, hip room and shoulder room from specs from carpoint.masn.com) All others were slightly longer (3 or 4 inches) and a in some cases an inch or to wider but passenger volume fairly similar. Actually the CRV has the most rear leg room of all hands down. This is important especially for moving around with a 3 and 1 year old. Of course the others all have a little more cargo space, but the tumbling rear seats easily compensates for that. Theses other all cost more and in case 10K more. Hard to believe the VRC is compared in the same class as the RAV$ or Escape. It should be re-clasified as mid-sized.
llofgren : While CR is a good reference, don't take it as the holy Bible. Lots of flaws in the way they (and any one else) collects data and assess cars.
RE : Aztek - While it's looks are in the eye of the beholder, I think the re-styled 02 is OK. That said, quality of the vehicle has been very good and price wise it's right there with CR-V. Wouldn't likely buy one myself, but there might be a few people cross-shopping.
Steve - I forget if it was your's or Tidester's, but I like the "gone to play ping-pong" excuse better.
Salzo - Yep. No armrest for the manual. Aftermarket companies offered one for the 97-98 models, which didn't offer an armrest with either transmission, but I haven't seen one for the new models.
Corey76 - Knock yourself out. Get that thread going. First you'll need to decide what "better" means. Some folks want cargo capacity, some want reliability, others want power, and then there are the folks who want clean emissions and fuel economy. Figure out how to rank these vehicles and I'll welcome the chance to learn more about the Aztek.
As for size... Length is only one dimension. Look at all the others and you'll find that the Aztek is quite a bit larger.
Zops - With 108 cu.ft. of interior space, the CR-V is technically a mid-size. I believe that the Santa Fe and VUE may be as well.
Heh, I still have all too vivid memories of cleaning up after the Aztek wars last year (too much work!). Besides, I'm here alone and my table doesn't fold up so I can't play ping pong by myself. Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Nope, the CR-V has never had front armrests with the manual transmission, but the driver's seat does come with one with the automatic. The passenger armrest is an option.
I believe Honda didn't install armrests with the manual since they could interfere with shifting.
Personally, I own a '00 with an automatic, and I rarely use the armrest.
Excuse me as this is out of sequence. I have been away from my computer for a bit. I am responding to strager from post #4950, which was related to my post #4947. That was 5 days ago. This board really moves!
I have a hard time seeing cars on both sides about one to two vehicles behind me. Part of the problem is probably inherent to SUV's, in that you sit up higher and cars aren't necessarily in your peripheral vision. The rear view isn't too bad, except for the often mentioned middle head rest. I have a child seat there, so I removed mine as per the owner's manual.
The road noise isn't excessive. It is more noticeable at highway speeds. Wind noise and or engine noise don't seem to be a problem. I do occasionally get a slight whistle when wind speeds are high from my roof rack (which is an accessory option).
Regarding handling; I may be off as I haven't driven my new V a great deal (only about 350 miles on the odo so far), but the handling seems quicker than my Accords and maybe a bit more fun, if not as precise. The Accord's strength is it's steering, which is very accurate and satisfying, but it's handling is not that great. It doesn't inspire you to take corners fast. The same seems true of the CRV, although it is maybe a bit more fun than my Accord. Neither can even come close to matching my Integra, which is logical, since both the Accord and CRV are more family cars than sports cars.
azteck shmazteck, get a tarabant and enjoy life. you won't belive how many out there drive tarabants. hey, a few years back yugo's were hot. i just say that everyone has his/her own likes and dislikes. if we didn't we would all still drive modified horse carriages with an engine in the back. or better, Dr Watt's steam powered "kettle on wheels" and i am sure there would be people defending its looks and purpouse (i can make dinner in the steam tank on the way home, and it doubles as water heater when parked in the driveway) I see a few aztecks on the road, so there are people buying them despite the looks, because they fit their needs. but it does nothing for me, should i call it useless then?
We have a 2002 EX 5 speed. I inquired about the arm rest and there is no accessory option for it yet. You are looking at about $300 CDN per arm rest to build it from parts. Hopefully Honda will do like the 99-01 and offer it as an accessory later.
I was kind of worried about no armrest but it has not bugged me yet. I tend to drive with my right hand on the shifter most of the time anyhow. I have yet to do any long trips so that opinion might change.
I just got a 2002 Accord SE (4 cyl 5 speed) and the CR-V does feel "zippier" to me as well. The gearing on the Accord is much taller plus there is an extra 10 hp and ft-lb torque. The variable intake timing also makes for broader power in the CR-V. A 2003 Accord with the same 2.4l engine opened up a bit for an extra 10 hp on top plus taller gearing would make a nice 4 cyl Accord.
Thanks - seems like we just went through this yesterday. It was hard finding the Lexus duplicate - too many GX - LX - RX's in their product line. Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I just purchased a 2002 CRV-EX (auto) about 3 weeks ago. It's black and I added dark graphite leather. I chromed the wheels, had lo-jack and security system installed and added the hard wheel cover package that included the front mud flaps cargo net and wheel locks. The car looks and rides great. I was originally looking at luxuary suv's (lexus & mdx)but couldn't bring myself to pay the high dollar for a computer car. The new crv is sporty, peppy and drives incredibly smooth. Okay, now for the problem: after driving the car for a few days I noticed a clicking noise coming from the steering wheel column. I showed my husband and he told me it was by key ring hitting the steering wheel (I wish it were that simple) after driving for a while he finally heard the clicking noise. The sound only occurs when the vehicle comes to a complete stop and then you hear another noise (coming from the same place) when you accelerate. I took it to the dealer and they told me the noise was coming from the "autoshift interlock solenoid" and at this point they are considering it a characteristic of the vehicle. The noise is incredibly annoying and I can't believe Honda would put out a vehicle with type of characteristic. I would VERY MUCH like to know if anyone else has had the same problem. Or could someone provide a mechanical explanation. This problem has really put a damper on my new purchase. I'm at the point where my thoughts are "you get what you pay for..should have bought an Acura or MDX." I would appreciate any input.
I would first test drive another new CRV to see if indeed does the same thing. If you find that the new one doesn't do it then maybe the problem is related to the lo jack system and alarm you had installed. Did you hear this clicking noise before having the alarm/lo jack installed? Good luck!
I have had a 2002 EX since mid-December. I have noticed that the front seat rocks/shifts slightly almost every time I start from a dead stop or step on the brakes - it is irritating more than anything else - I can't seem to recreate the movement when I try rocking the seat back and forth by myself - my wife thinks I'm nuts (too picky) - I really hadn't thought about taking it back to the dealer but then I saw somebody else post this on another CR-V site so at least I'm not alone - anybody else experience this?
When: Saturday Jan 19 Where: Pine Barrens (Lebanon State Forest, NJ) Meet: Intersection of Rte 70 and 72 near Whiting, NJ Time: 10:45-11am Who: AWD/4wd Vehicles (no 2wd please) What: Off-road Trail Ride through the barrens, will be fun for all, we encourage Subarus, Rav4s, CRVs, Isuzus, Highlanders, 4-runners, Santa Fe, Explorers, etc.
alarm that I added at the dealer. Have had mine for 2 weeks and have noticed absolutely NO irritating noises. A great SUV and reasonably priced for the options you get. In fact it has more passenger volume/room than the 4runner, Nissna Pathfinder, Honda Passport and Isuzu Rodeo. Only the highlander had more volume but you pay a hefty premium for that car. Lots of pep as well. Unless you need major towing capabilities and just really want a bigger engine for that off-road ability through the mountains and down a rocky creek bed then go with a larger but much more expensive SUV. Very comfortable with ample space for my 1 and 3 year olds. Not much negative to say so far.
The main page works for me, but since they have a "competing" forum, I can't tell you whether the rest of the site is up Steve Host SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
I am going on a trip with my family to see my parents in Wisconsin today, with a stop over in the Dells for some indoor water park fun. We're taking the new CRV. It will be about 700 miles round trip, mostly highway miles. It will be a good chance to evaluate ride/seat comfort, hauling capacity, etc. Will report back on any observations next Monday.
A plug for the Pine Barrens Trip: it's a blast. I went last year and had a really good time. The trails are unimproved, i.e. mostly sand and dirt, and you'll likely find at least one shallow water crossing. It's easy if you take it slow, and there is always a 2nd route around the tougher obstacles.
It's not rock hopping, so the CR-V will likely do fine. You probably can push the limits a little if you choose to.
I strongly recommend it. I also strongly recommend a car wash before your wife sees what you did to your car. :-)
Drove to Nashville yesterday on the interstate. What a difference from the elderly (but much loved) '87 Camry! Look out, big trucks! I'm not afraid of you any more!
Seriously--plenty of acceleration and very easy to keep up with traffic flow (2WD LX auto). Passed without using OD. Smooth and quiet ride for the most part. Minimal wind and engine noise. The most noise was coming from those four things on the wheels. Annoying.
Caught myself doing 80 and felt like 60. Still have to be vigilant with mirrors because of limited rear view. (Got some of those stick-on ones for the side mirrors that increase the view--works great.)
Parking is a breeze, even in downtown garage. Haven't tried parallel yet. Good control on road but occasionally feels "light". Not a lot of sway, though, but I don't push it. The hard part is keeping alert to my speed--it's easy to get going too fast in congested traffic. Thank goodness the brakes are adequate.
I'm really liking this car. Wish the seats were about an inch deeper, but all in all, a good decision.
Has anyone in the Toronto area managed to buy one under the retail asking price? And why can't you get the blue paint without the leather option? That burns my butt!
I thought that was a typo, but we should probably clear it up. OD should be used when cruising. You would disable OD if you wanted a bit more power for quick passing at higher speeds.
Paisan - Thanks for the invite! I'd go (Jersey isn't too far Massachusetts), but I'm booked this weekend. Sounds like fun.
I have always driven my vehicles with OD on. If I am cruising at 55-60 I am certainly in 4th gear (this is for an AT obviously), if I turn OD off (or shift to D3) won't the vehicle downshift and slow down? So are you saying as soon as it downshifts I immediately step on the gas to get more power to pass? I admit I'm not the best when it comes to understanding gearing so I appreciate anything you can tell me. I can always use a little extra help in passing.
"If I turn OD off (or shift to D3) won't the vehicle downshift and slow down?"
Good question. Yes, the car would slow down because there is now more resisitance to the momentum of the engine. While in OD, there is less resistance to the engine and it can run at a lower RPM. This means better fuel economy and a less noisy ride.
However, it also means less power. You need to be higher in the RPM band to get the most power. So when you downshift, the resistance increases, but so does the engine's potential to create power. When you feed the engine fuel, it creates enough power to overcome the increased resistance and restore momentum.
When you read posts here, you often see people make a remark like, "downshifting to pass." What they really mean is, "downshifting and stepping on the gas".
In the aforementioned Camry, turning OD off resulted in a surge of power for climbing a hill or passing on the highway. Turning it back on made the engine "slow down" to normal. I didn't feel the need for this with the V.
What is all this "downshift and then give it gas" stuff? Am I doing it right or not?
Well, I would be if I hadn't driven the Miata to work! ;-)
We haven't had a flake yet this season. A little freezing rain once, that's it. Pity.
I was looking at Edmunds' coverage of Detroit, and boy does the Pilot look good. Seating for 8 beats even the Odyssey. Plus it's smaller outside than the MDX, which is important for the wife (she hates big vehicles). 5 speed auto is good. I'd prefer a full-time AWD over VTM-4, but I'll take it. Lose the silver accents on the steering wheel, though.
But that's picking nits. Those wait lists are going to be loooong.
I have the 02 CRV EX and I now have 3400 miles on it. It runs great and overall a fantastic value. The only complaint I have is that I get a vibration in the steering wheel when the car is in park and I press the gas pedal. This comes and goes. This seems to be the same vibration I have noticed between 60-70 mph. At first I thought I was nuts, but when my wife mentioned that she noticed it, I new it was time to act. I had the dealer check the tires, but he didn't notice anyhting unusual. Then came the vibration in park. I contacted the service manager and he said to bring it back in and they'll do what they can. Tough to find if it doesn't always happen. I have the Dueler H/T's and should have swapped, but I live and learn. Anyone else notice this vibration in the steering wheel and/or at around 65 mph. Otherwise, I am a Honda man through and through!
Comments
Thanks!
Tom
"Although functional as a minivan/sport-utility crossover, the Aztek's repulsive styling and weak engine still relegate it to second-class status as a family vehicle."
If you truly are a glutton for punishment, quit trolling here and start a "CR-V vs. Aztek" thread. It'll be a gas.
Isuzu Rodeo, Nissna Pathfinder and Lexus RX300.
The interior passenger volume of the CRV was larger than all and just slight smaller than the Highalander and RX300 (looking at front/rear headroom, hip room and shoulder room from specs from carpoint.masn.com)
All others were slightly longer (3 or 4 inches)
and a in some cases an inch or to wider but passenger volume fairly similar. Actually the CRV has the most rear leg room of all hands down.
This is important especially for moving around with a 3 and 1 year old.
Of course the others all have a little more cargo space, but the tumbling rear seats easily compensates for that.
Theses other all cost more and in case 10K more.
Hard to believe the VRC is compared in the same class as the RAV$ or Escape.
It should be re-clasified as mid-sized.
RE : Aztek - While it's looks are in the eye of the beholder, I think the re-styled 02 is OK. That said, quality of the vehicle has been very good and price wise it's right there with CR-V. Wouldn't likely buy one myself, but there might be a few people cross-shopping.
Salzo - Yep. No armrest for the manual. Aftermarket companies offered one for the 97-98 models, which didn't offer an armrest with either transmission, but I haven't seen one for the new models.
Corey76 - Knock yourself out. Get that thread going. First you'll need to decide what "better" means. Some folks want cargo capacity, some want reliability, others want power, and then there are the folks who want clean emissions and fuel economy. Figure out how to rank these vehicles and I'll welcome the chance to learn more about the Aztek.
As for size... Length is only one dimension. Look at all the others and you'll find that the Aztek is quite a bit larger.
Zops - With 108 cu.ft. of interior space, the CR-V is technically a mid-size. I believe that the Santa Fe and VUE may be as well.
Steve
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Steve
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I believe Honda didn't install armrests with the manual since they could interfere with shifting.
Personally, I own a '00 with an automatic, and I rarely use the armrest.
Ty
zops: your 1- and 3-year olds must have really, really long legs!
OK I'll shut up now.
-juice
I have a hard time seeing cars on both sides about one to two vehicles behind me. Part of the problem is probably inherent to SUV's, in that you sit up higher and cars aren't necessarily in your peripheral vision. The rear view isn't too bad, except for the often mentioned middle head rest. I have a child seat there, so I removed mine as per the owner's manual.
The road noise isn't excessive. It is more noticeable at highway speeds. Wind noise and or engine noise don't seem to be a problem. I do occasionally get a slight whistle when wind speeds are high from my roof rack (which is an accessory option).
Regarding handling; I may be off as I haven't driven my new V a great deal (only about 350 miles on the odo so far), but the handling seems quicker than my Accords and maybe a bit more fun, if not as precise. The Accord's strength is it's steering, which is very accurate and satisfying, but it's handling is not that great. It doesn't inspire you to take corners fast. The same seems true of the CRV, although it is maybe a bit more fun than my Accord. Neither can even come close to matching my Integra, which is logical, since both the Accord and CRV are more family cars than sports cars.
I see a few aztecks on the road, so there are people buying them despite the looks, because they fit their needs. but it does nothing for me, should i call it useless then?
If I get it, I may drive it a while before deciding about adding the armrest.
- Bill
I was kind of worried about no armrest but it has not bugged me yet. I tend to drive with my right hand on the shifter most of the time anyhow. I have yet to do any long trips so that opinion might change.
I just got a 2002 Accord SE (4 cyl 5 speed) and the CR-V does feel "zippier" to me as well. The gearing on the Accord is much taller plus there is an extra 10 hp and ft-lb torque. The variable intake timing also makes for broader power in the CR-V. A 2003 Accord with the same 2.4l engine opened up a bit for an extra 10 hp on top plus taller gearing would make a nice 4 cyl Accord.
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
Good luck!
When: Saturday Jan 19
Where: Pine Barrens (Lebanon State Forest, NJ)
Meet: Intersection of Rte 70 and 72 near Whiting, NJ
Time: 10:45-11am
Who: AWD/4wd Vehicles (no 2wd please)
What: Off-road Trail Ride through the barrens, will be fun for all, we encourage Subarus, Rav4s, CRVs, Isuzus, Highlanders, 4-runners, Santa Fe, Explorers, etc.
****Details****
Have had mine for 2 weeks and have noticed absolutely NO irritating noises. A great SUV and reasonably priced for the options you get.
In fact it has more passenger volume/room than the 4runner, Nissna Pathfinder, Honda Passport and Isuzu Rodeo. Only the highlander had more volume but you pay a hefty premium for that car.
Lots of pep as well. Unless you need major towing capabilities and just really want a bigger engine
for that off-road ability through the mountains and down a rocky creek bed then go with a larger but much more expensive SUV.
Very comfortable with ample space for my 1 and 3 year olds.
Not much negative to say so far.
Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
It's not rock hopping, so the CR-V will likely do fine. You probably can push the limits a little if you choose to.
I strongly recommend it. I also strongly recommend a car wash before your wife sees what you did to your car. :-)
-juice
Seriously--plenty of acceleration and very easy to keep up with traffic flow (2WD LX auto). Passed without using OD. Smooth and quiet ride for the most part. Minimal wind and engine noise. The most noise was coming from those four things on the wheels. Annoying.
Caught myself doing 80 and felt like 60. Still have to be vigilant with mirrors because of limited rear view. (Got some of those stick-on ones for the side mirrors that increase the view--works great.)
Parking is a breeze, even in downtown garage. Haven't tried parallel yet. Good control on road but occasionally feels "light". Not a lot of sway, though, but I don't push it. The hard part is keeping alert to my speed--it's easy to get going too fast in congested traffic. Thank goodness the brakes are adequate.
I'm really liking this car. Wish the seats were about an inch deeper, but all in all, a good decision.
Paisan - Thanks for the invite! I'd go (Jersey isn't too far Massachusetts), but I'm booked this weekend. Sounds like fun.
Good question. Yes, the car would slow down because there is now more resisitance to the momentum of the engine. While in OD, there is less resistance to the engine and it can run at a lower RPM. This means better fuel economy and a less noisy ride.
However, it also means less power. You need to be higher in the RPM band to get the most power. So when you downshift, the resistance increases, but so does the engine's potential to create power. When you feed the engine fuel, it creates enough power to overcome the increased resistance and restore momentum.
When you read posts here, you often see people make a remark like, "downshifting to pass." What they really mean is, "downshifting and stepping on the gas".
In the aforementioned Camry, turning OD off resulted in a surge of power for climbing a hill or passing on the highway. Turning it back on made the engine "slow down" to normal. I didn't feel the need for this with the V.
What is all this "downshift and then give it gas" stuff? Am I doing it right or not?
Sorry, I drove my Miata to work today, top down (hey we hit 40 I think). Gotta really rev that thing, too!
-juice
Don't ask how I know.
-juice
We haven't had a flake yet this season. A little freezing rain once, that's it. Pity.
I was looking at Edmunds' coverage of Detroit, and boy does the Pilot look good. Seating for 8 beats even the Odyssey. Plus it's smaller outside than the MDX, which is important for the wife (she hates big vehicles). 5 speed auto is good. I'd prefer a full-time AWD over VTM-4, but I'll take it. Lose the silver accents on the steering wheel, though.
But that's picking nits. Those wait lists are going to be loooong.
-juice
Wouldn't want that guy running my company!