2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

ateixeira

Toyota even charges for a rear bumper!

-juice

guxu

My local dealer seems to really care about the Honda survey. And Honda requires the dealer do a long list of things to make the customer happy. So I would talk to the dealer about the floormats first. If no result, complain to zone office, and give them bad score.

My local dealer keeps sending me Thank You letters, from salesman (several times), new car manager, servise manager and general manager, even I have already given them all 5 stars.

BTW, I got free floormats, which is not standard on my LX. And the stick list it as MFSP $99. How can they charge you $120?

tatu1

OK, I've been lurking around here for months trying to get some info on the 2002 model and I'm at wits end. I've seen the same fake pictures dozens of times, someone out there must have some real information. I saw on another site that Honda has at least announced the colors for the 2002's. Does anyone at least have a release date ? Varmit ? Ladychoas ? I'm dyin' here, I almost bought a Mazda Protege wagon over the weekend, but my wife talked me out of it....

varmit

Tatu1 - I feel for you, pal. The wait for info can be a killer when you're thinking about spending a chunk of change like this. Unfortunately, the answer is still, "no". And while that color list over at TOV looks pretty reliable (dealers do get color info in advance, so they can judge allocations), I wouldn't count on it.

Don't expect to hear anything other than unsubstantiated rumors about styling and/or features until Summer.

The release date is probably October or November. It's possible that it could be as early as September. You may have to deal with waiting lists, too. :-(

slugline

Varmit: The floormats ARE standard on the EX and SE models this year. (Together with standard childseat anchor points and the new silver color, those were the very few changes Honda did for the '01 models.) There's no doubt that ricklund1 got ripped off. It's the same as if the dealer charged him extra for the alloy wheels on his EX.

In contrast, the best favor my salesperson did for me was steering me away from any pricey add-ons. I later found out that the dealership maintains "equillibrium" with eye-popping rates at the service department. ($400+ for 15k service!?)

canadiancl

Has anyone noticed that the floor mats for the CR-V are actually a nicer quality than the "carpet" that they are supposed to protect? When you think about it, it doesn't seem right.

varmit

Slugline - Yep. I know. The problem is that Honda has traditionally left them out of the package UNTIL now.

CanadianCL - Another "yep". Though that's been true of many of my cars (Mazdas, a Chevy, two Soobs,...).

corynat

Anyone have thoughts on the 15000 service the dealer offers. I was planning on just the tire rotation and oil change, but the dealer is suggesting their $129 15000 service. Doesn't appear to be anything major covered in the service, so I see no point in doing it, but thought I would ask those of you with more miles on their CRV's if you have used any of the mileage plans they push. Obviously, I think they are in it to make some cash, but thought I would ask.

ateixeira

I say complain loudly if you were charged for the floor mats. You should get your money back and an apology. Not to mention you'd stop the dealership from doing it again.

Call the dealership supervisor and the Honda 800 number and complain.

-juice

varmit

Another '02 rumor...

http://auto.ascii24.com/auto24/e/2001/0509/e04nsc_tm0509_02.html?sm

These article seems to be suggesting that the next CR-V is going to move up to compete with the Highlander, Santa Fe, and RX300 rather than continue to slug it out with the RAV4, Forester, and Grand Vitara. Could just be the differing perspectives of a foreign market...

Thanks to Robyn at CR-V IX for the link. :-)

ateixeira

That's a pretty wild looking Mitsu. I like it.

2.4l would be a good idea for the next CR-V. That would give it enough torque and keep the fuel efficiency up there with the class leaders. Then bring over the HR-V to compete with the Vitara, Sportage, and RAV4.

Forester will grow. There are rumors that the next Forester will be based on the Legacy platform instead of the Impreza, which would also make it bigger. An H6 or a turbo are virtually guaranteed, too.

Things should get interesting. Even if you wouldn't buy a Santa Fe or an Escape (for whatever reason), it's good that they're out there, because competition improves the breed.

-juice

sasquatch_2000

I'm with you!

I like the idea of the 2.4 four also.

Now, just give it a full frame, and 4 Low, and I'll take it!

Or, give the SantaFe some better looks, more power, and a frame, and we'll talk.
Or, give the Sportage some better quality and a little more power...

ateixeira

Given your needs, why not a supercharged XTerra? Or the new Jeep Liberty?

They aren't my cup of tea, but I'm sure they're quite capable and better suited for your needs.

Maybe Kia will bring the Sportage Grand here in its next generation.

Now don't hold your breath for 4Lo in the CR-V. It just ain't likely. Heck, the Forester is more likely to get one, since they already manufacture a unit overseas.

-juice

sasquatch_2000

a bunch of good ones.

all are under consideration, but I bet the supercharger puts the Xterra out of price range.

tatu1

Varmit, what do you think ? Is that article legit ? It's similar to what you've been saying about the stream engine..Can't tell much from that picture though....

varmit

That picture is a current model CR-V, not the '02. It just has some of the "extras" that they get in other markets. (This is not a US or even Canadian publication.)

Honda has pledged to redesign their entire line of domestic (Japanese market) engines within the next few years. Since the CR-V is sold in Japan, we can expect that this change will affect our version. Among the promissed changes are improvements in fuel economy, emissions, and power. So basically, any engine that meets the above criteria is a possible candidate.

I've suspected the i-VTEC 2.0 because it matches the above description AND meets a few other requirements.

1) It fits in the Civic platform (Stream, RSX, etc..)
2) It's not a completely new engine (therefore, not too expensive).
3) The factory that makes the 2.0 is geared to produce up to eight variants of this new block. Honda doesn't have that many cars, so it's likely that the CR-V would be one of those that gets the new block.

Since this 2.4 is based on the i-VTEC 2.0, I'd say it's a reasonably good possibility, but it might just be that someone is very good at crafting rumors. I'd call it promissing, but I wouldn't trust it until another reputable source confirms it.

ateixeira

Doesn't the 2.0 in the new Civic Si make 160hp? That wouldn't be a bad choice.

But for better torque, the 2.4l would be ideal.

-juice

varmit

Here's another article: http://www.just-auto.com/news_detail.asp?art=28406&app=1&c=1

Juice - The same basic block makes abut 200 hp in the RSX Type S and is ruputed to make even more in the Type R. But peak torque is still in the 140-150 range and climbs higher on the rpm band along with the HP. The Stream's 156 HP and 141 FtLbs would be the best of the 2.0 versions. The torque curve is flat from 2,000 to 4,500 rpms. That would provide sufficient motivation for the current CR-V.

I'd *guess* about 180 hp and 160 FtLbs from the 2.4 version. More than I was expecting, but it sounds like they are trying to take on larger vehicles, so there will be more weight, too.
Makes me wonder what the next Passport is going to look like. I was expecting a competitor for the Highlander, but it sounds like the CR-V might take on that task. Maybe Honda is going after the Explorer, Pathfinder, and Trailblazer.

ateixeira

Yep, those engine rev too high for an SUV.

The article says 2.4l and VTEC, which would be great. Though it also implies it'll be getting bigger and pricier. Highlanders break 30 grand pretty quick with just a few options.

When is the Honda version of the MDX going to arrive? My guess is they'll price the CR-V at about 20-25k, the Honda MDX at 28-35k, and let the Acura take over where that leaves off.

The Passport ought to be cancelled soon, right?

-juice

bobcatbob

Well, didn't we all figure the new CR-V would have a bigger engine along this line? What concerns me is the design, as well as, the possibility of a console betwees the front seats.

The new Honda MDX will arrive in Fall of 2002 as a 2003 model. The Birmingham plant ought to be online at that point. If plant completion is delayed, so too is the new Midsized SUV.

varmit

Bob has the scoop on the Passport.

We figured that the CR-V would have a more powerful engine. We didn't know if it was going to be bigger. IMHO, the surprize is how much larger the CR-V might be. I agree with Juice, the price will certainly climb and I can't make any guesses about fuel efficiency.

I was expecting Honda to play it conservative. You don't mess too much with a class leading seller. This is beginning to sound like a completely different CR-V.

ateixeira

2.4l is more than I expected, though. That's a good thing, for sure.

Given the fuel efficiency of the new Civic, I bet mileage stays the same (22/25mpg). They'll gear it more conservatively, so it'll be no quicker (with the added weight), but quieter and better able to handle heavy loads.

Fall of 2002 is right around the corner, so I guess the V6 Passport can soldier along until then.

-juice

bobcatbob

I think the new CR-V will be different, but not too different. Sure the sheet metal may change, but remember that it'll be based on the new Civic platform, so its mechanical elements and design cannot push that to any great limit.

I think it will be a lot better in many respects especially considering it will finally have its own platform and not share an antiquated one like it does now.

Now, while the CR-V may wind up being bigger, I think it is a mistake to assume it'll compete with the Explorer and Highlander. That role will be filled by the Mid-Size SUV in Fall 2002.

beatfarmer

Of course, none of this does me any good since I plan on keeping my current CR-V for at least 7-10 years. So the next gen 'V, while interesting, will not be on my shopping list. Now I wonder what the '07 'V will look like...hmmm

varmit

Bob - The Higlander isn't really that big. Neither is the JGC, Rodeo, and last years Blazer. The Explorer and new Trailblazer are actually quite a bit larger. As far as external dimensions go, the CR-V is already large enough to compete with the JCG and Higlander. The three measurements that keep the CR-V from competing in that class are the size of the engine block, its overall weight, and its price.

While I don't expect the '02 CR-V to compete directly with the Highlander (in terms of size and price), these articles are making it sound like it'll be as big as the Sante Fe, Xterra, and Tribute. That means it's more likely that folks will cross shop the Highlander than the Tracker, Sportage, and even the new RAV4.

Beatfarmer - I'm with you. I could use a little more space in the back, but I'm not willing to pay for a brand new vehicle just yet. This speculation is purely for entertainment on my behalf.

bobcatbob

From a dimensions perspective, the CR-V is as big or bigger than the Escape already. I am almost positive that it can carry more, has as large a wheelbase and stands as tall or a tad taller. To get the new CR-V as big as the Xterra (108 inch (or so) wheelbase), the current whelbase would need to be stretched almost 5 inches.

I don't know that this is possible given the Civic platform the new CR-V will be sitting on. I mean if Honda is taking aim at the Liberty and X-Terra, the new CR-V ought to be more than "The king of the concrete jungle" as the CR-V billboard ads state. Two totally different markets and images there.

And, the Highlander isn't that big, you are correct, but it is still considered a mid-size SUV nonetheless. Actually, when I saw the Highlander for the first time, I said to the salesman, "I cannot tell you how much I do not like this vehicle, it looks like a station wagon on steroids."

sasquatch_2000

"... these articles are making it sound like it'll be as big as the Sante Fe, Xterra, and Tribute. That means it's more likely that folks will cross shop the Highlander than the Tracker, Sportage, and even the new RAV4."

As far as cross shopping, the first thing I look at is my budget. Then, based on price, I look at features, and try to find the most I can which fits into that budget. Size is but one feature I look at.

gwapo

will honda price the '02 CR-V same as the '01?

like for example the '00 and '01 Civics had a price
difference of under $1K

varmit

Bob - The Civic platform is fairly flexible. As for comparisons with the Escape and Highlander...

The Tribape is about 4-5 inches shorter than the CR-V. This is partly due to the fact the CR-V has a spare tire rack on the back. I'm told that the tire itself does not count, but the mounting bracket does. However, depending on your model, the Tribape can weight anywhere from 200-300 lbs more than the CR-V. While they share the same wheelbase (103"), the Tribape is slightly wider and significantly taller. So it depends on how you define "bigger".

I don't expect that the CR-V will be targeted at the truckish Liberty or Xterra, but many folks who shop this class do test drive both. Even the auto mags include both in their comparos.

IMHO, there has been a tendancy to create two subclasses to what we used to call "mini-utes". There were the little buggers like the old Sidekick and RAV4 and now we have what I call "small-utes" like the Tribape, Xterra, and Santa Fe. The CR-V kinda sits between them with the body of a small ute, but the engine of a mini-ute.

Anyway, if you believe those articles, then it sounds like Honda is trying to plant the CR-V firmly into the small-ute category. Further more, those articles are consistently mentioning "trucks" like the RX300 and Highlander. I agree that those are yet another step in the bigger direction. Which makes me wonder: Is Honda going to try to build a CR-V that will compete head to head with the Tribape and undercut the Highlander at the same time? Kinda like sitting between the small utes and the smallish mid-sized ones. Pure speculation.

Squatch has a good point. One of the only reasons why the Santa Fe and Xterra are included in the small ute class is the fact that they are priced within the same range. At 4,000 lbs, they really are big boys in this class.

varmit

I just whipped these together, so please forgive me if they are not as aples to apples as they could be..

Highlander 4WD 2.4 cyl

MSRP $25,395
Invoice $22,645

Length: 184.4 in.
Width: 71.9 in.
Height: 66.5 in.
Weight: 3715 lbs.
Wheelbase: 106.9 in.
Turning Circle: 37.4 ft.
Ground Clearance: 7.3 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 81 cu.ft.
Maximum Payload: 1270 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs.

CR-V 4WD 2.0 (EX) AT

MSRP $21,990
Invoice$20,132

Length: 177.6 in.
Width: 68.9 in.
Height: 65.9 in.
Weight: 3245 lbs.
Wheelbase: 103.2 in.
Turning Circle: 34.8 ft.
Ground Clearance: 8.1 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 67 cu.ft.
Maximum Payload: 920 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs.

Escape XLT 4WD

MSRP $21,750 + $1,480 (for v-6)
Invoice $20,350 + $1,33

Length: 173 in.
Width: 70.1 in.
Height: 67.8 in.
Weight: 3238 lbs. (3457)
Wheelbase: 103.1 in.
Turning Circle: 35.4 ft.
Ground Clearance: 7.8 in
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 65 cu.ft.
Maximum Payload: 978 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs. (braked 3500 with towing pkg)

Santa Fe LX 4WD (2.7L 6Cyl 4A)

MSRP $22,494
Invoice $21,086

Length: 177.3 in.
Width: 72.7 in.
Height: 66 in.
Weight: 3720 lbs.
Wheelbase: 103.1 in.
Turning Circle: NA
Ground Clearance: 8.2 in.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 78 cu.ft.
Maximum Payload: 2200 lbs.
Maximum Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs.

This pretty much shows that the current CR-V is a bit smaller in most dimensions than the Escape and Santa Fe, but there's not such a big jump between the Santa Fe and Higlander. So IF the CR-V grows to that size, it wouldn't be a huge stretch.

drew_

Safety-wise, I personally think that the best news is that if the CR-V is based on the new Civic platform, it ought to do well in the NHTSA full width frontal (hopefully it won't rollover in the side impact test again) as well as the IIHS offset crash tests, improving over the current CR-V's only marginal IIHS crash test results.


Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

beatfarmer

the spare tire wouldn't spoil the safety rating, just the bumper bash score, which is not about safety but repair cost.

sasquatch_2000

I'd rather have the rear spare (just get Honda to build a better bumper!).

Apparently, so would others:

http://www.rockstomper.com/catalog/tubework/bumpers.htm

I assume this is to protect it from damage on trails and also make it easier to access (for damage from trails!).

beatfarmer

Not to mention extra beefy tow points.

I don't think any manufacture is going to build tube steel from the factory. Too much money, not enough profit.

sasquatch_2000

Oh, I'd imagine they profit plenty on that sort of stuff!

ateixeira

That data is interesting. I guess what sets the Highlander apart is width (+3") and payload (+350lbs). Also, the tow rating is incorrect. I believe the Toy can haul 3500 pounds.

I doubt the new CR-V would change quite that much. If you look at all the newcomers (RAV4 being the exception), they're all getting bigger, so it'll be about par for the class.

My guess is the 2003 Forester will also get bigger, leaving only the RAV4, Sportage, Tracker, and Vitara in the mini class.

Sad thing is I actually like light and nimble vehicles, so my choices are dwindling. Then again, there's always the WRX wagon.

-juice

ateixeira

I think the HR-V could not have better timing. With $3 per gallon gas rumored for the summer, they ought to hurry it up!

I think the crossovers are just going to get more and more interesting. All these off-lease SUV owners are going to want something more car-like and efficient.

Anyone else notice Expedition residuals took a sudden nose dive lately?

-juice

johnlw

As a CRV owner, I am always happy to surf the Edmunds' boards. You know, if you go to the Maintenance and Repair topics there are no "My CRV is a LEMON" or :CRV Engine Problems" topics. This vehicle is just so reliable! If you own one, be glad.

And if you own one, you might be interested in joining some of us on the 'Summer 2001 Mid-Atlantic CRV Meet.' There will be prizes, promotions, a rally, and a picnic at Oriole Park in Baltimore. It is on June 2nd, follow this link if interested.

http://www.geocities.com/crvmeet/

We had a great time last fall, so if you are in the area...

tatu1

Last one, I promise. When is the anticipated release date of the 02's ? The Japanese article said that they expect a September release in Japan, which I would guess means a later release in the USA...any thoughts/speculation ?

terrymcginnis

I live in New England area. I am debating between the CRV, Tribute, and Santa Fe. Price is a concern for me since all 3 are doing well right now in the market.

When I bought my Ranger XLT Sport in August 99 (brand new), I paid $3000 below the $17,000 sticker price. When I bought my wife's 00 Accord SE in August 00, I paid over $4000 below the $22,000 sticker price. At the time both vehicles were in normal demand, and the Accord was only 1 of 2 SE's they had left (they had been selling at invoice price prior). I just bargained hard, had cash in hand, and got a good deal.
Anyone from the NE area buy one of these for a steal? If so, how much roughly? Where? Any contacts? Thanks. terrymcginnis.

ateixeira

You'll probably find the deepest discounts off retail at the Honda dealer (never thought I'd say that). Especially with the 2003 model around the corner.

The Hyundai is selling well. A local dealer that puts no-haggle prices on-line has exactly zero in stock. They are near retail in the DC area, at least, with little supply.

The Mazda is similarly new, though you may get deeper discounts than at Hyundai, because it costs more to begin with.

-juice

crvlady

has anyone out there seem to be having to add oil in between oil changes? I have a 2001 cr-v that I love. I get the oil changed every 3-5 thousand miles. It seems that I need to put a quart oil in in between. I have never had this experience with any other car that I have had. I talked to the service departments of 2 dealerships and they both said that Honda states that you will burn a quart of oil every 3,000 miles and that my experience is normal. It does not seem normal to me and I am debating on contacting a Honda rep. Decided to find out from other Honda owners what their experience has been. By the way, the car does not seem to be leaking any oil and I am still under warranty. I love the vehicle otherwise. I'm just a bit nervous about what is "normal"and what is a problem.

canadiancl

In the almost 5 years that we've had our CR-V, we have never had to add oil between services. In fact, I have almost stopped checking the oil since it is almost always right at the top mark on the dipstick everytime I've checked. However, I do regularly check the garage floor for signs of leaks (of any kind). I know I'm being lazy but don't you guys just hate the position of the dipstick tube on the CR-V? Unless there is good lighting, you can't even see the darn hole!

sasquatch_2000

I have a 92 Civic DX. I think it has the same (or similar) engine. I noticed that it would run consistently for a long time needing no oil, then all of a sudden be down like a half or three quarters of a quart! It doesn't smoke, and there is no oil on the driveway at all. Now that it is getting older, it uses a little oil, but consistently. No smoke at startup (indicates worn rings, like Toyotas get) and none really noticeable while driving and still none on driveway. Must be a small amount getting burned while driving. And yes, the dipstick hole is tough, and you can't feel around for it with your fingers because it is right between the exhaust manifold (OUCH!).

beegal

I hope I don't have a problem.

I did all kinds of research, Internet type, and we decided to get a Honda CRV. We also own a pickup and a large van. This is the "comfortable, long trips, better on gas" car. I love it. Our own baby SUV.

Went grocery shopping then drove the 18 miles to pickup grandkids for an overnight. Was going on, and on, and on to my daughter about how much I like this car. Then got in -

The car would not start. Well, the key would not turn past the 1st position. We have only had this car since Monday! When we were at the dealer last Friday I was sitting in the one that we took for a test drive. Tried to start it - and the key would not turn completely. The salesman, who was sitting in the passenger seat said I might not be turning the key correctly. (Yeah, right) After jiggling the key and steering wheel, the car started. Well, today I jiggled, pushed, jerked, thumped and finally called the service person at the dealer. He said jiggle the steering wheel. I did. No luck. He said force the gear (automatic) shift into Park. I did. No luck. Well, the guy was concerned that this isn't a problem starting. Me too. The car finally started, well, the key finally turned, after 20 minutes jiggling..

Anyone else experience this? Heard anything about it? I am still too excited about the car to be feeling this disappointed.

Help?

Judy
2001 CRV-LX

ateixeira

Just guesses, but do you have to hold the brake down? Was it in Park? Do you have to push the key in a little bit to get it to turn?

-juice

sully14

anyone know the timing that these 2002 crv will roll out. Any increase in cost?

corynat

Hi Judy,

I have had that issue with my CR-V, but not to that extent. I had one time where I really had to pull hard on the steering wheel to get it moved enough to free up the ignition lock, but it was a matter of seconds rather than minutes to get it going. It has only happened 2 or 3 times in the year I have owned the car and the other times it just took a yank on the wheel to free it up. I want to say each time it happened I parked with the wheels cut fairly significantly. Sorry to hear it is giving you grief.

varmit

Just got back from a drive to upstate NY (from Southern MA). Took the wife's TL, so I can't comment on the CR-V's performance this time. On my last trip, with the 'V, I got 28 mpg. We'll see if the TL does the same.

Drew - The Current CR-V already scores well in the NHTSA tests (19 out of a possible 20 stars). While the CR-V did tip on its side in the side impact test, the NHTSA specifies that this test is not designed to predict "rollability". However, in the test that IS designed to predict the potential for rollover, the CR-V scores a 3 star rating. While this is not good, I don't believe that any other SUV has done better. It's the IIHS off-set test score that could use some work. And yes, the new Civic platform should be an improvement.

Juice - The Highlander's 3500 lbs rating is with the V-6. It's the cargo space that illustrates the greatest difference.

John - I'll see you in MD. I'm having heated leather seats installed while I'm down there.

Judy - What you are describing sounds like steering wheel lock. The wheel can become locked into position if you turn it after shutting off the car. While the wheel is locked, the key will not turn. That's the reason why they recommend "jiggling" the wheel. IF this is the case, you'll notice that the wheel only turns in one direction. Turn it and hold it in that direction and turn the key at the same time. My only other thought is that your key might need to be re-cut.

varmit

Couple of articles provided by members of the CR-V IX.

A review from Cartalk

http://cartalk.cars.com/Info/Testdrive/Reviews/honda-crv-2001.html

and some more '02 rumors

http://www.europeanhonda.demon.nl/hondanews10.htm