2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

atatu · May 2001

Isn't really a "wagon", I know, more semantics...But if you want the room of a wagon, get an Outback, not a WRX. Personally, I can't understand why Honda refuses to bring back the Accord Wagon.

inky · May 2001

The unofficial guess drawings and rumors of goodness have me wanting to wait for the new one. If it is superior to RAV4 then I will look into it. With gas prices rising the cute ute may be the way to go. Please post details on 2002 as you all run into them. Thanks.
INKY

al63017 · May 2001

Wow I liked the CRV but just to plain for me. I would recommend CRV to anyone. The RAV4 attracted me for the same reasons the the CRV did. Quality, gas mileage and price. But when it comes to looks the 2001 is (only in my opinion) much better and it also is much more quiet and somewhat soother ride. Sort of like a small QX4---it really is much more plush. My daughter said she could just plop into CRV but now she feels like she is getting into something fancy. Not sure how long that will last. I know this is silly but this came with the chrome side step rails and that was what initially made me stop and look for I was not even sure what it was as I had not seen the 2001 yet. Wow what a nice touch they really add to the appearance--but do get your pant leg dirty when you get in and out until you learn to adjust. Mine was 24500 and got 1300 off sticker. At one time they were getting sticker but some dealers are dealing now. I doubt if Honda and Toyota are going after the same market any more with the changes they made to the Toyota which seems to be trying to go much more up scale. See that Escape and Tribute are about the same price. Cannot imagine spending same money for those after you have experienced Honda and Toyota quality. Should add Nissan in there to.

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

Do you walk on your shins?

P.S. ;-) for the humor impaired.

al63017 · May 2001

I needed that!!!!!

tazereli · May 2001

I mentioned the WRX b/c someone mentioned sport wagons. I live with only my wife and no kids so why would i want the extra slow moves of the outback over the WRX? The WRX has light years more sport than the outback could ever hope to have. I mean only offering the 3.0 H6 with auto only? Puleeze! Wheres the sport in that? If it doesnt have a 5 speed, you wont see me driving it! Living in Philadelphia allows me to see my fair share of traffic. The legacy GT wagon would be my choice if i really needed somthing bigger, not that Aussie's car. Its got the right look but no performace to back them up. Off-topic but i had to respond

Kyle

slugline · May 2001

Wow. All I can say is that I hope yours was loaded with everything. Isn't that pricing squarely in Highlander or 4Runner territory?

al63017 · May 2001

Actually paid 23,200 with 1300 off that sticker price--not very clear in my message. No roof or leather. As I said with a loaded RAV4 Toyota is not going after same market that Honda is. You actually have more cargo room with CRV unless you remove the back seats of RAV4 which are designed to do that. They compete in price when you leave all the stuff off them. Think SE CRV is between 23 and 24. That is one of many things that I like about Honda---everything is standard equipment, with Toyota everything is an option.
I am sure leather and roof would have added 2000 more. They all go up every year. Remember when I swore I would not pay 20,000 for a vehicle but now 30,000 cannot be too far away. They already cost more than my parents 3 bedroom brick house they bought in the 60's.
Toyota has 16" wheels with bigger tires option, black out glass except for side and front windows-but they are darker tint also, chrome side step bars, cd-cassette, upgraded L interior and exterior, security system, cargo net, on and on as they do. So quite a few more features that if you added to CRV would soon push that price up. Not for everyone I am sure but my only hobby is cars---no other ones like boats, jet ski, etc. Now I will get out of the CRV forum as no disrespect meant here for CRV. I liked that vehicle a bunch and would recommend it to any one. Toyota just caught my eye this year. Pretty much bought Honda, Toyota or Nissan for years.

diploid · May 2001

I remembered when the first sketches of the Acura RSX was floating around. It looked sharp and aggressive.

When the car was released, it looked rounded and relatively dopey. But I still like it.

varmit · May 2001

I like what Toyota did with the new RAV4. While I'm not a big fan of the styling, its function is right on. Just like the old one, they kept it small, economical, and easy to drive. However, they advanced it in areas where it was lacking (power, cargo space, refinement,...).

I'm glad Toyota didn't give it a V-6 and try to compete with the Xterra, Sante Fe, and Escape. Toyota has enough clout to leave that market to the Highlander.

Honda has been too slow in replacing the Passport, so many folks are expecting the CR-V to compete with the bigger boys. (Remember, when the CR-V was introduced, it was aimed at the RAV4, Sidekick, and Sportage. All are much smaller than the new V-6 competitors.) It'll be interesting to see if Honda tries to strike a middle ground or if they price the Honda version of the MDX to compete in the $23-29K range.

bajabill · May 2001

I am wanting to downsize from an explorer, v8/awd. I drove the Hundai SF and was impressed. Not so much that I am willing to be a part of any gamble on the popularity rise for the manufacturer however. Public opinion is very important if you have to sell the item. The Honda CRV was very underpowered. I was afraid I would ruin the new engine pulling out into 45 MPH traffic. Felt cheap, looked cheap, but it was not cheap. The Sub Forester is a station wagon, period. No attempt to hide this fact at all (once again that public opinion thing). I did not have the oportunity to try the ford, they were sold out at the dealer I went to. Still have the ford and toyota to try. Salesman said Honda has a new model comming next year, what is it?

varmit · May 2001

bajabill - Your salesman could have been referring to the next generation CR-V which is a 2002 model, but should hit sales floors this Fall. Or he could have be talking about the replacement for the Passport. This is rumored to be a Honda badged MDX and is a 2003 model.

Also, don't worry about revving the CR-V's engine. It's based on the block used in the Integra. I can understand why you would prefer not to (especially when coming from an Exploder), but Honda engines are designed for it.

Check out the Escape/Tribute when you have a chance. Sounds like they might suit your tastes. Good luck shopping.

bajabill · May 2001

Any information on the changes. A little luxury by chance. The current front seats feel like they are just planted in the space forward of the rear bench.

I am going to have a hard time prying my wife out of a quite, leather seats, lots of amenities, and "safe feeling" AWD explorer as it is. In her words, its the best vehicle she ever had.

I am glad there are a few alternatives out there that better match the realistic use of these vehicles (FWD, and V6 power that matches the slightly lighter frames, and a suspension designed for the road). In 1998, this nitche was only filled with vehicles that had the economy car feel and a full size price.

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

why do you want to change?

Might as well keep her happy.

(then buy yourself a stereo, boat, guns, or some other fun item)

varmit · May 2001

bajabill - I gotta say, I'm a bit confused by your remark about the front seats.

The current front seats feel like they are just planted in the space forward of the rear bench.

Where else would you put them? :-)

Nothing reliable in the news. Most folks are guessing that the next CR-V will have a modest increase in power, stay about the same size, and maybe offer a few extra toys (sunroof, LSD, tire options,...) No one knows anything for sure. Many of the CR-V's fans are expecting better mpg, LEV emissions, and other refinements. We are not expecting a V-6. Honda tends to be conservative, so I doubt that there will be many big changes.

mapman1138 · May 2001

I didn't see anything posted. Bogey - that hole sounds like the mounting point for the floormat fastener peg. Mystery solved?

slugline · May 2001

I have the floormat peg: It is fastened down in a small hole in the carpet along the left-rear side of the floor mat.

Now, if I roll my seat backwards, behind the floormat is a raised area in the floor. In the very center of this rise is a hole in the carpet and a hole in the sheetmetal about a half-inch in diameter maybe. It's not for the under-seat CD changer, either. Maybe it's for a non-U.S. accessory . . . it wouldn't surprise me if the Japanese or others stick some really cool gadget in there.

al63017: I completely understand your attraction for the RAV4. If I was shopping this year instead of last, the Toyota could have been my choice too with the restyling. The escalation in price does worry me though. My thinking is that the base price of these vehicles ideally should continue to overlap the prices of the top-end Corollas or Civics, and give the typical compact buyer something to step-up to without laying out drastically more money. My original plan was to get a compact car, but I found the additional capabilities of a CR-V worth a few grand more to me.

varmit: This lack of information on the new 'V is profoundly disturbing to me. What do those super-spy auto-journalists get paid for anyway?

rbogey · May 2001

mapman, this is not the hole to mount the floormat. that post is near the front left side of the seat. the hole that i am talking about is in the middle of the floor in a raised part of the floor under the front part of the seat. i'm still wondering! mystery still unsolved!thanks anyway though! slugline thanks for helping me explain this "mystery hole" and by the way i checked out texas blue betty and she is "hot" bogey

mapman1138 · May 2001

I thought that answer was too easy.

Maybe a hardpoint for some sort of offensive weaponry...

rafdmf1 · May 2001

I'm considering the CR-V as my next vehicle. One of my biggest concerns is the horsepower. I'm currently driving a Pontiac Grand Am GT w/ 175 horses. Has anyone else had a change like this? I used to drive a truck and I miss the hauling capability that I had. I like the CR-V because I now need the backseat for my little girl. Is there anywhere to store CD's/cassettes? Also, do dealers seem negotiable on the EXTREME mark-up of accessories that they add on? My local dealer is charging 595 for roof rack and 149 for front mud flaps. Is there a Genuine Honda moonroof OR are all moonroofs aftermarket? I'm considering the SE model. How's the stereo in SE? Any advice/opinions would much be appreciated.

rbogey · May 2001

I went from driving a Chevy Malibu with a V-6 to my CR-V and it did take a little time to get adjusted. Of course these high gas prices make the transition much easier! There is plenty of storage spots for CD's; I keep 5 in a little compartment that opens up right under the ashtray. Also I have a few in the glove compartment and some in the slide out box under the passengers side seat. Dealers WILL work on the price of those aftermarket items you spoke of and I told my salesman if he wanted the sale to throw those front flaps in and he did. bogey

canadiancl · May 2001

I think the front mud flaps are standard, are they not? No factory moonroof for the CR-V.

slugline · May 2001

A really good test drive that includes merging onto a freeway and other tasks you do on a daily basis. Informal testing with my auto-tranny CR-V shows 0-60 times of about 10.5 sec, perfectly OK for the SUV category. For more perspective, see

http://www.edmunds.com/edweb/highperf.html

(Does anyone know if there is a 2001 list available?) Consider a stick-shift if being speedy is high on your list of priorities -- it seems to cut a second off that 0-60 time.

My previous car was a Chevy Corsica with the 3.1L V6, and I did not notice any dropoff in performance whatsoever. Then again, hindsight says that Chevy's 3-speed auto tranny in the early 90s was a dud to be sure. . . .

If you've had a good chance to explore the interior of one yet, I'm sure you'll be able to judge whether the 67 cu ft of space (rear seats folded) is enough for you. What kind of loads would you be hauling? The tray under the passenger seat is accomodates CDs and tapes nicely, but it's not in a convenient location for a lone driver in front. The flat floor, however, invites the use of duffle bags or the addition of aftermarket consoles if you don't mind going that route.

As for dealer gouging on accessories, I have only three things to say to that:

http://www.partscheap.com

http://www.handa-accessories.com

http://www.hondaautoparts.com

For North American consumers, Honda moonroofs are not available in the CR-V -- the dealer will be going aftermarket for that and passing a big bill on to you. Shoppers in other countries do have the moonroof as a factory option.

varmit · May 2001

Slugline - You mean I could get PAID for that?!?! :-)

Bogey - Sorry, but that hole is a mystery to me, too.

Rafdfm1 - You can save quite a few bucks by ordering the aftermarket stuff on-line and installing it yourself.

Going from a torquey V-6 to a high revving I-4 will be a bit of a culture shock. Some get accustomed to it, but others don't. I'd recommend long and frequent test drives before you put down any money.

bajabill · May 2001

Like I said, I want a vehicle that is better matched to our needs, without the unnecessary items (weight, AWD). But, I still like niceties on the interior. That is what I was eluding to about the front seats of the CRV. There was not a "cockpit feeling." It was similar to, but not as bad of course, a cargo van where the front seat is all alone and you can sense the empty space behind and beside you.

corynat · May 2001

I actually was in your situation last year when I bought my SE. The dealer had everything marked up and I simply showed him a list of what each item cost aftermarket and he matched those prices. No struggle at all. Even the ASC sunroof only cost me $995, which I think is cheaper than I could have gotten it for. The stereo seems pretty decent to me, but you do see a lot of complaints from CRV drivers about the sound. I have no complaints. The dealer told me that the head usints are all the same, but that the speakers are whatever brand Honda happened to get a deal on, so they can vary. Of course, he could be full of it. The hardest part of getting used to the engine is the revving. It goes pretty good if you are willing to put your foot in it. Just took reading some posts assuring me that I wasn't going to kill the engine before I felt comfy doing it.

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

I would recommend aftermarket for the stereo and accessories. Manchester Honda has some decent prices. You'll have to search to see if they are online.

I went from a 78 Dodge Magnum (318 ci V8, probably 140 HP around time I got rid of it) to an '85 Corolla, which was a great car, but not a high revving I4, more like a low revving, reliable I4. I then went to a '92 Civic, which was a great improvement (my Corolla was pushed up the hill to the Honda dealer by an ex's Cavalier).

I too, am in the market for a new vehicle. I need to pull a 1400# boat, have a dog, and need some more space. I plan on taking it off road, and want decent power and mpg compromise. I'm looking at Ford Ranger, Escape, XTerra, Trooper (used), Wrangler (used), CRV (waning interest, but maybe new model?), Kia Sportage, and maybe RAV4 or Suzuki. Boy this is tough. I got my awesome, peppy, efficient Civic for $9,500 brand new in 1992, and prices are SO much higher now. I have owned this car for a few years, and don't want to have to make payments.

beatfarmer · May 2001

why not keep the civic as a daily driver and pick up something used to do your pulling and off road duty. If the civic is in pretty good shape, this makes sense. That way you can get the power and ruggedness you need without having to sacrifice for mileage. You would avoid a big payment too. That way you get to keep your awesome civic and have a real truck to pull your boat, go hunting, etc.

varmit · May 2001

The head unit in the SE model is an upgrade from the basic CD or casette found in the LX and EX. According to the owners in that other forum, the difference is noteworthy, but probably not enough to make a true audiophile happy.

Beatfarmer - That's a good suggestion. A Wrangler will offer all the sport, while the Civic can easily handle the daily driving. Insurance would be a consideration, but with the Jeep listed as second vehicle, it shouldn't be too bad.

Bajabill - You are correct. I think Honda was actually trying to avoid the cockpit feeling and was going for a spacious, mini-van-like interior.

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

I am considering this among other factors. The trouble is, the Civic has some rust over each rear wheelwell (I don't feel like I treated her bad, since I have seen maybe a dozen with the same rust in the same spots), plus she is getting a little cramped (or I'm getting bigger :-) )

I also am considering buying a used Wrangler for fun, and a used truck for utility use. My wife has a decent Jetta for longer trips. My commute is negligible, so either of the other 2 might do.

Decisions decisions.

crvdc · May 2001

I love my 2000 Gold SE, but, as time wears on I'm discovering a few unpleasantries. One is when it is raining or snowing, when I open the drivers door whatever is falling from the sky or has already accumulated on the rooftop quickly makes its way to the interior of the car and on the drivers seat. Will weather or windowguards (is that what they are called) help? Also, what do you SE owners do about the cold seats on winter mornings. Thanks for any advice you can offer!

varmit · May 2001

crvdc - You've just discovered one advantage to having the window switches on the dash instead of on the door. The snow and rain don't land in the electricals.

I think that the window guards you are referring to mount on the door. So when you open the door, the guards move with them. Unless I'm thinking of a different product, that'd be no help at all.

You can have seat heaters installed for about $300. There was a write-up in April's issue of the CR-V IX. The write-up is for leather seats, but it includes a description of the heaters. I'm having this done (leather and heat) to my EX at the Mid Atlantic CR-V meet in June.

ateixeira · May 2001

Am I too late for the Sport in SUV discussion? FWIW, anything "Sport" to me has only 2 seats and a drop top.

Besides, the "sport" should be about hiking to the camp site, not driving there in an automatic heated leather luxurious wagon with GPS navigation. The "wuss" it the one that can't make the hike.

Funny thing is above someone said the Hummer H1 is an SUV but the H2 is not. Well, well, guess which one has the fully independent suspension (like the CR-V and Forester, I might add)?

I liked that link to the old Grand Wagoneers. Remember, before they were trendy, that's what they were called.

Side note: the WRX is a wagon simply because it's roofline is longer than the sedan's. Yes, it's fastback style means it offers less utility, but have you seen the European Accord wagons lately? Same thing, basically.

Go drive one, and you'll learn to pack light pretty quickly. Those things are schweet!

-juice

lmahler · May 2001

Hello everyone, it has been a while since I have been on this site. I have now had my 2000 CRV-EX for one year and I still love it as much as the day I bought it. Here's my question. I only use my CRV on weekends so after one year I have 5,000 miles on it. Besides the usual oil change and annual inspection is there any other maintainence I need to perform on this car after a year? You know how Honda techs would love to sell you more than you need!
I would also like to leave this message for all would be buyers of CRV's. I have always been partial to Honda's as I have always found their products to be safe and reliable.I am 6'6" tall and I fit in the drivers seat quite comfortably, unlike the RAV 4 (I still don't understand how you can compare the two)? Yes I get great gas mileage, and I love the feeling of being up higher in the saddle. For a 4 cylinder model I still get to do my 60-65mph on the highway and can get more power if I need it. I love having the option of folding over the rear seats for extra cargo space and I adore the 8 inches off the ground as it has gotten me through a rough winter and some flooding. Yes, there is some engine noise but it is tolerable. I love the CRV!

rafdmf1 · May 2001

FIRST, I must say that I'm impressed with the passion all you owners have for your CR-Vs. I must ask if the rumor I heard is true or not. Someone told me that if the timing belt breaks on this vehicle, that the valves get bent and engine becomes toast (interfering engine). Fact or fiction? Thanks!

varmit · May 2001

Hmmm... Dunno if the CR-V has interference valves or not. If it does, then yes. A broken belt would result in the pistons hitting the valves and most likely crunching them but good.

With that said, I haven't heard of anyone breaking the belt, yet. I believe the owner's manual recommends that it be changed at 105K. Most owners do it before 90K, just to be safe.

ricklund1 · May 2001

Just bought a CR-V EX today. A beautiful silver one. My only helpful criticisms so far are:

1) the ridiculous lack of a "tethered" gas cap.

2) Floormats are supposed to be standard on this model, according to Edmund's review. They weren't in my case--$120.00!!!

3) There should be options for the interior color-- the gray is pretty boring!

4) There should be a 6cyl option.

5) An "under the vehicle" spare would be nice.

That's it so far. Otherwise, this car is great!!!

ricklund1 · May 2001

Edmunds says they are, the Dealer says they aren't. Are they?

raybear · May 2001

They concur with Edmunds.

Standard Equipment
Every 2001 Honda CR-V 4WD EX Auto comes with the standard equipment below. Unless otherwise noted, standard equipment is the same for vehicles in different model years.

MECHANICAL
· 2.0L DOHC MPFI 16-valve I4 engine
· 4-speed electronically-controlled automatic transmission w/OD, Grade Logic Control System
· Real-Time 4-wheel drive
· 4.36 final drive ratio
· 4-wheel double wishbone suspension
· Front/rear stabilizer bars
· P205/70SR15 all-season mud & snow SBR tires
· (5) 15'' alloy wheels
· Exterior spare tire carrier w/tire cover
· Variable-assist pwr rack-and-pinion steering
· Pwr front ventilated disc/rear drum brakes
· Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
· 15.3 gallon fuel tank

EXTERIOR
· Dual body-color pwr mirrors
· Body-color door handles
· Tinted glass
· Front/rear intermittent wipers
· 2-way rear tailgate/glass hatch combination
· Rear splash guards

INTERIOR
· Reclining front bucket seats w/adjustable head restraints
· Driver seat manual height adjustment
· Full-flat reclining rear seats w/tilt-up seat cushions, adjustable outboard head restraints
· Floor mats
· Front/rear beverage holders
· Door pocket storage bins
· Adjustable steering column
· Tachometer
· Low fuel indicator light
· Pwr windows w/driver-side auto-down
· Pwr door locks
· Remote keyless entry system
· Cruise control
· Remote glass hatch release
· Air conditioning w/micron air filtration system
· Rear seat heater ducts
· Rear window defroster w/timer
· AM/FM stereo w/CD player-inc: (4) speakers
· Lockable glove compartment
· Dual vanity mirrors
· Removable folding picnic table (25''H x 26''W x 30.5''L)
· Map lights
· Cargo area light
· Cargo hook
· Waterproof rear storage well
· Front/rear accessory outlets

EPA FUEL ECONOMY RATINGS
· City 22/hwy 25 (2.0L engine/4-speed auto trans)

SAFETY
· Driver & front passenger airbags (SRS)
· Rear child seat tether anchors
· Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
· Child-proof rear door locks
· Front 3-point seat belts-inc: automatic tensioning system, adjustable anchors
· Rear 3-point seat belts w/center lap belt

WARRANTY
· Basic: 3 Years/36,000 Miles Drivetrain: 3 Years/36,000 Miles Corrosion: 5 Years/Unlimited Miles

varmit · May 2001

Ricklund,

You can order the Civic gas cap holder and install it for about $3.00 plus shipping. Here's a tutorial from the CR-V IX.

The floormats should be standard.

Interior colors may be coming for the next model. T.O.V. has an article/rumor.

A six cylinder option would have completely crushed Passport sales.

In other markets, the CR-V has the spare under the table. It would've been nice if this were an option here. Here's a pic

slugline · May 2001

http://www.honda2001.com/models/cr-v/specs/specs6.html

Even making things worse, the floormats are available online for around $70 for folks that should not have gotten them as standard equipment.

ateixeira · May 2001

That CR-V looks better without the tire on the back. In fact, for whatever reason, it has the effect of making it look bigger.

-juice

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

VERY interesting: http://www.kia.com/sportage/comp_crv.shtml

hannah10 · May 2001

Go to this site for 2002 photo:http://www.hondapl.org/honda/nowycrv2002/nowycrv.html

hannah10 · May 2001

Honda is notorious for ripping buyers off by charging more for floor mats. I got nailed for $200 at the very last minute after doing all the buying stuff etc. etc. for mats for my Accord. This is a nasty practice and leaves a bad taste in buyers mouths even though I love my car.

ateixeira · May 2001

The blue one looks far better than the red one at the bottom of that page.

Both grilles look too much like Acuras, though, with 5 points.

I dunno about that Sportage, it's getting really long in the tooth. Besides the warranty and the low price, it pretty much looks like it's a decade old when new.

-juice

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

I'd just go over to the car, take the mats out, put them on his(or her) desk, and say "Now take the $200 off!"

:-)

sasquatch_2000 · May 2001

Ya think so? I think it looks pretty nice. (at least it doesn't look like the Aztek!) Really, it has rounded corners, and nice paint. 5/50 perforation warranty, 10/100 powertrain.

ateixeira · May 2001

It is cute, but it's been the same way for what seems like decades. I'm not sure if you've driven one, but they are relatively crude.

Also, that side-by-side comparo doesn't do much for the Sportage - higher price, less power, less fuel efficiency.

-juice

PS It's also tight inside. They actually sell Sportage Grand models overseas, with a longer wheelbase and a V6. They should be selling that model here instead.

varmit · May 2001

Sorry Hannah, both of those pics are air brush creations.

The fact that floor mats are not standard is getting old. I agree that people are getting fed up with it. But in comparison, it's not so bad. Toyota nickle and dimes their customers for everything from A/C to tire valve caps. With Hondas, everything comes standard and the dealerships have almost nothing to make an extra profit with. Unfortunately, this leads to them being greedy with the few items that they can charge extra for.

Squatch - Notice there's no quality column in that comparison. Kia offers those warrantees because no one would take a chance on buying one without it. We have a saying about Kias... "There are no Kia drivers, only Kia owners."

2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

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