2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

robertsmx · October 2001

Towing capacity will also be limited by the load rating of the tires. The stock Michelin MXV4 tires on my Accord had a load rating of 89 (whatever that means). Overloading tires is another issue. Perhaps, it is all about a bunch of compromises.

ateixeira · October 2001

Exactly, a compromise of tread life, noise, cost, rolling resistance, and traction on ice, snow, and dry pavement.

89 = 1,279 pounds
88 = 1,235 pounds
87 = 1,201 pounds
86 = 1,168 pounds
85 = 1,135 pounds

-juice

diploid · October 2001

http://home.nexgo.de/honda-club-ems-jade/Japan.u.U.S.Modelle/Z-Turbo/z-turbo.html

Now isn't that cute...

diploid · October 2001

Honda has some really ugly cars in Japan.

http://home.nexgo.de/honda-club-ems-jade/Japan.u.U.S.Modelle/

varmit · October 2001

There are actually a number of people who want Honda to bring over the Avancier and, despite it's looks, the Stepwgn is a top seller. I do want to know exactly how a V3 turbo is configured?!?!

UK-press stuff found by UK-Kev at the CR-V IX. It gives a good impression on how the CR-V Is perceived elsewhere.

http://www.honda-newsletter.co.uk/oct2001/generation/index.html#crv

utopia · October 2001

Need feedback. Have read posts on CR-V & Tribute boards. I know about all the initial recalls on Trib. Have driven both. Hands down on looks & ride I like the Trib, but of course, have always been sold on Honda quality. Frankly, don't like the exterior looks of 2002 CR-V so am trying to make purchase decision between 2001 CR-V & 2002 Trib. Am conservative driver, but need to be able to get in/our of city traffic, but also want a min. of 20 mpg. Comments are welcome re: pros & cons. Don't want to make a mistake. Thanks...

canadiancl · October 2001

I would go for the '02 CR-V. Its styling is not perfect, but it's not bad. I think it will grow on you. The improved power and refinement from the '01 should outweigh the cons. I wouldn't go for the Tribute. Its reliability is just too iffy at this point.

varmit · October 2001

So you want decent gas mileage and reliability, but you don't want to be left sitting at the stop light... CR-V with a 5 speed.

I'd agree with Canadiancl, though. There are many more reasons to get the '02 model. Increases in safety, LEV II emissions, more features, and improved comfort would take the sting out of any styling that seems goofy at first. Besides, you can always dress it up with aftermarket gear. I'm willing to bet that one of the first things to hit the aftermarket will be a body colored grill cover for those black plastic spots next to the '02 grill.

dfielding · October 2001

How long do you intend on keeping the vehicle? If you want it for a long life and many years, go for the CRV (Honda engine VS. a Ford engine, Honda engineering VS. Ford engineering).

rsholland · October 2001

Thanks for the link. I always enjoy seeing what Honda (and other brands) sell in other markets. I've always been curious about the AWD/RT4WD Avancier. It seems like it's Honda's answer to the Subaru Outback. They should sell it here.

Bob

varmit · October 2001

From a functional point of view (probably price too) the Avancier would be competition for the Outback, but I believe Honda tries to pass it off as a baby Audi. More of a sport wagon, than an SUV alternative.

diploid · October 2001

Unless it came standard with AWD, I don't think the Avancier would really compete with the Outback.

But I do believe it's also pricey. While it is built off the Accord platform, it's not THE Accord wagon. That distinction goes to something they refer to as the "Aerodeck," which I think is hideous looking.

quakedr · October 2001

The Honda website states that the new 2002 CRV EX will have a power moonroof. However, some reviews state that it will have a sunroof.

My definition of a moonroof is that the glass completely opens up (slides) and you can actually pass thru the hole in the roof. A sunroof, to me, is a fixed glass "window" in the roof which can be opened just a little bit at the back.

Can anyone confirm which one the new EX will have?

Thanks.

varmit · October 2001

Moonroof.

varmit · October 2001

You thought those JDM vehicles were ugly? Check out the "Unibox".

http://world.honda.com/news/2001/c011017_1.html

dudka · October 2001

When i was in japan, i loved the diversity there. i had a chance to drive the HR-V, and i loved it. I saw the turbocharged Life-dunk. it was pretty cool, i got to drive toyota Bb, which is anothe box wagon kind of car.
One thing i noticed there though, people shift pretty low, most of the japanese drivers would not go above 3000 rpm to shift. I think this is due to the expencive gasoline.

regularguy · October 2001

My *GOD* that's hideous! Sometimes ugly can be passed off as "edgy" (Vehicross, Aztec). Not this one. Looks like a toy you'd give to a toddler.

ateixeira · October 2001

That Z is adorable. Kind of looks like they chopped 6 feet off a Montero Sport. It looks better proportioned in that pint size, though. Actually, lots of those cars look like shortened versions of whatever the designer intended.

I like that Avancier, though. I even heard rumors that Honda will offer a sport wagon here? Anyone confirm? It would compete with the Legacy GT more than the Outback. The new Mazda 6 wagon, too, which is gorgeous BTW. Audi has gone way upscale with the new A4.

UK mid-size does not equal US mid-size. I know what you're hinting at, varmit. ;-)

Remember, they sell several Fords (Ka, Fiesta to name a few)smaller than the Focus in Europe. A Focus wagon has more space than a BMW 5 series, so it could be considered a mid-size there, too.

ROTFLMAO! Just saw the Unibox! Hilarious, thanks for sharing.

Tribute may not get you that 20mpg you want. Maybe if you drive like grandma, but why bother getting 200hp if you're not going to use it? And if you do use it you'll get closer to 18mpg.

-juice

dill6 · October 2001

Thanks for the link, its quite amazing what a large number of diverse projects Honda is up to around the world that we have no clue about.

Seems that there's a playful quality to the way they (and others?) approach the Japanese market - or better, I guess, a playfulness in the people there in terms of what they'll buy and drive that would never fly here. We're so serious - guys all concerned if their car is perceived as "girlie", etc. Don't stray too far from the herd! Odd though - aren't the Japanese supposed to be otherwise so conformist?

re Tribute vs CR-V - from what you said you want I think you, like me, want the '02 CR-V. I think the styling will wear well in years to come, not to mention the vehicle, as well. Still, nothing wrong with the '01 if you like it, and you can get a great deal right now. Just a little too bland in the driving experience dept. for me.

ateixeira · October 2001

Good points. We have three-box sedans and two-box wagons and SUVs. 20 years from now people will look back and say they all look the same; very cookie-cutter.

-juice

varmit · October 2001

Juice - Actually, I wasn't hinting at the size. It was the raving about the powertrain, fuel efficiency, safety, and other bits that caught my attention. Some of these things are ignored here, but in the UK they're big selling points. Obviously, it's a Honda press letter and should be taken with a big ole grain of salt, but it's interesting to read how they stress different design elements.

"...powers the latest CR-V from standstill to 100 km/h in under 10.0 seconds in 5-speed manual form, yet fuel consumption on the Combined Cycle is expected to be 9.0 l/100km." Here in the states, we'd have boo-hoo'd this performance.

"Honda has also improved the CR-V's popular two-way tailgate." We all know how popular the CR-V tailgate is here. ;-)

I also found the way they measure things to be interesting. in particular, the "tandem"distance" and the cargo measurements that go "up to the windowline".

FWIW, the Healy article we saw here a while ago mentioned that new CR-V's interior volume (106 cu-ft.) does, in fact, make it technically a mid-size by American standards.

vonnyvonce · October 2001

To all you V fans and I may be joining your ranks for 2002. What is there not to like about the Matrix/Vibe twins. Toyota quality, VC AWD, I think good looks. Help me to see clearly please, I'm getting ready to buy something

raybear · October 2001

A sunroof is a metal slider, a moonroof glass.

varmit · October 2001

Vonnyvonce - If the Matrix meets your functional needs, then I'd say go for it. The CR-V is more practical as a utility vehicle, but, if you don't need all that utility, buy one of the sportier wagons.

barnone · October 2001

how do you remove the inside black cover of the tailgate?

ateixeira · October 2001

Yep, gas ain't cheap in Europe. I'm surprised that Honda doesn't slap an Isuzu diesel in there. Seriously, it would improve sales greatly. Look at the Escape - they can't give away V6s, and diesels are more desired than even the 4 banger!

The Matrix is IMO a beautiful little sport wagon, and will be a huge hit. The only catch I can see is that while it offers 130 or 180hp with FWD, the AWD version is supposed to get just 120 horses. So I'd have to drive one to see if that's enough, but don't expect a rocket unless you get the FWD w/180hp engine.

Yes, the VC is nice a will likely be set up like the RAV4 with a 50/50 full time split. The 180hp engine is straight from the Celica, so it won't have stump pulling torque but will surely get smaller jobs done in a hurry. Too bad you can't combine the two.

-juice

varmit · October 2001

Barnone - If it's anything like the side doors, you'll have to remove all visible screws first. They may be hidden in places like the grocery hook or inside the covered compartment. Then, once you're sure you have all screws removed, simply tug hard on it. They have acorn-shaped knobs that hold the plastic in place. I've never done this myself, so good luck.

Juice - I recall reading somewhere that even the smallest of the Isuzu diesels (1.8?) won't fit into the Civic engine bay. Honda engines are wee bitty things. The ones that Honda was/is considering were for another platform. I can't find the article, though, so don't quote me on it. :-)

rsholland · October 2001

When I was in England a few years back, I could have sworn they were selling an Accord diesel. I don't think the engine was a Honda unit though. It might have been an Isuzu unit, I just don't remember.

Bob

ateixeira · October 2001

Really? I thought Isuzu made diesels even for mini-cars. Maybe they just don't have one in the right displacement range?

Honda had other partners back then (Rover?). The deal with GM to provide Honda V6 engines to the General is what gave them the chance to obtain diesel mills from Isuzu. Not sure the date, but it was recent (last couple of years).

-juice

scname · October 2001

I read it was going into the Vue a year ago. Apparently wrong. What heappened, where did it go ?

rsholland · October 2001

It may very well have been a Rover diesel that they used. I think I may have some old UK Honda brochures. I'll see if I can find them.

Bob

diploid · October 2001

That UNIBOX is hideous. I think after the "Model X" concept, the designers at Honda are trying too hard to be cutting edge.

The Matrix looks odd. I find the Vibe to be better looking.

Honda is reportedly working on a small diesel engine for its mini-cars, which we probably will never see here in the big open U.S.

silentguilt · October 2001

in the U.S. is b/c our diesel sucks big time compared to Europe. Hence why the VW TDI engines are rated @90 hp.

robertsmx · October 2001

moonroof/Sunroof:
I don't think any car offers a 'sunroof' now from the factory. It is all moonroof.

Diesel/Hybrids
Honda is going to buy 2.0 liter diesel units for European Accord from Isuzu (in exchange for gasoline V6 units to GM). At the same time, Honda is also developing its own diesel engine design (they don't make one, yet), and they plan to have some engines over couple of years.

There was a rumor about the possibility of hybrid CR-V alongside a Civic sedan version later next year. The hybrid Civic sedan (expected gas mileage of about 68-69 mpg with CVT, better than Insight/CVT!) is just around the corner, and is being launched within a month in Japan, around March, here in the USA. So, may be Honda will continue the gasoline way by combining and improving the hybrid technology.

Avancier & Accord Wagon:
They are both similarly priced, and based on their base price in Japan, they might start somewhere around $20K.

Avancier - engine: 2.3l/I-4 SOHC VTEC(150 HP); 3.0l/V6 SOHC VTEC (215 HP)

Rear profile of Avancier
http://www.honda.co.jp/auto-lineup/avancier/photo-lib/image/photo1.jpg

Front profile of Accord wagon (SiR/4WD model, 2.3 liter DOHC VTEC)
http://www.honda.co.jp/auto-lineup/accord_wagon/photo_lib/image/photo2.jpg

Dudka: One thing i noticed there though, people shift pretty low, most of the japanese drivers would not go above 3000 rpm to shift. I think this is due to the expencive gasoline.
Yes. Around town driving for me doesn't require taking the revs beyond 3000-3500 rpm in either of my cars (Civic and four cylinder Accord), and that is the recommended shift point for good fuel economy by Honda (Owner's Manual).

diploid · October 2001

The more I look at the Avancier's headlights, the more they remind of the Acura TL's headlights, from last year (not the facelifted ones currently on sale).

This car is very elegant looking.

varmit · October 2001

The rumors about a gas/IMA hybrid CR-V are "official" rumors. Honda execs have stated that they are considering the posibility. The catch is that it depends on how well the Civic hybrid sells. If buyers in N. America don't buy the hybrid Civic, then don't expect them to develop a CR-V with it.

dudka · October 2001

i don't know what is all the hype about diesel, the diesel fuel where i live (nyc) is the same price as the low octane gasoline. the only advantage is the direct injection fuel efficiency. i think mitsubishi has direct injection (GDI) engines out on the market in japan, and possibly in europe. they offer similar fuel efficiency as diesels but with more top end power, rather than just raw low rpm torque from diesel.

dudka · October 2001

by the i forgot to mention that honda IS developing it's own diesel which will only be available for sale in japan and europe. no plans for US diesel.

robertsmx · October 2001

I dislike to be surrounded by diesel vehicles, and I would prefer gasoline engine over it any day. And you're right dudka, in fact, diesel used to be more expensive than gasoline in bay area while I lived there. Otherwise it is about as expensive as premium gasoline. The advantage however is that diesels do get better mileage, but also sacrifice power in the process.

BTW, Honda had developed a 1.3 liter diesel engine prototype months ago. And they seem to be working on it. For a while, Honda is supposed to use Isuzu diesels in European models, and follow it up with their own engines.

diploid · October 2001

I would hate to buy a Honda with an Isuzu engine.

That is why I would never get the Passport, no matter how deep the dealers cut the prices.

jmatero · October 2001

Well, after being frustrated as hell with my rattling passat at 9.0% interest and the worst dealer network in automotive history, I decided to check out a possible replacement... the current CR-V. I checked out the CR-V SE with automatic and found the assembly quality to be the best of ANYTHING I've seen out there... everything worked as it should... everything is lined up, yadda-yadda-yadda. The dealer told me FLAT OUT they are selling at about $250 over invoice without asking.... and that there is now 3.9% financing for 60 months which requires $0 down.... and he has yet to see honda turn down anyone on the 3.9.... a few with so so credit had to put down 10% to get it approved but they want these puppies to move. So, I'm like, ok... let me test drive this thing and see what it's like.

My impressions: First, the silver SE I drove was STUNNING in my opinion... FAR from outdated or even "long in the tooth"... the painted bumpers and side mouldings really dressed it up. The ergonomics were also supurb but the power windows and column shifter did take a little getting used to but nothing that would "break the deal" really. I actually like the cloth in the EX better than the leather and since I don't need the cassette player, I'm wondering if i could save more by just getting an EX. In fact, I'm interested in testing a 5-spd (more $$$ off) for the heck of it to see if it increases the "fun factor".

The power, while no passat turbo, was MORE than sufficient with my only motor complaint being the NOISE at high revs... MAN my old crx didn't sound like that... not a nice mechanical sound let me tell you. Other than that, I really enjoyed it! I am concerned about the gas milage which most tell me is lousy with the cr-v but the insurance is LOW on this vehicle and resale is incredible. As for waiting for the new 2002, honestly, I Just don't like the styling AT ALL... particularly the grey bumpers... they just look cheap and while I'm sure it's much improved, with the current selling at invoice and for 3.9%, I just can't justify going for the 2002. I'm going to drive a tribute and escape for the hell of it for comparison (I know, recall city). anyone out there regret getting the EX with the 5speed? Anyone with any advice on what to look out for would be awesome!

diploid · October 2001

I'd rather have grey bumpers on the 02 than the BLACK ones we've been seeing.

Even better, I'd rather have body-colored bumpers.

theracoon · October 2001

I have a '99 EX 5spd and love it. The 2001 has the same engine as the '99. Yes, it's a little noisy if you get the rpms up, but that's also when it gets fun to drive. Most of the time I drive it very conservatively. I'm averaging 25 mpg around town and 28+ mpg on long trips on the highway (2 trips of 1,200 miles, 1 of 600 miles, and 4-5 of 500 miles). In 2.5 years and 29,000 miles it's only been in the shop for normal maintenance and state vehicle inspections.

I'm rotating the tires this weekend, and giving it a bubble bath and wax, before it starts snowing.

gkoff · October 2001

This was my first Honda. Quality is top notch. Only issues I had were the driving position and the noise at highway speed. As far as driving position, I got used to it. It is not the concern it was when I first got the vehicle, just a difference in what I was used to in my previous vehicle (86 Trooper). With respect to highway noise, I added sound deadening material under hood and in doors. That did wonders.

So what I have now is a vehicle with no drawbacks, great quality and reliability and high resale. I plan to keep it for a few more years, then Honda will do its mid-cycle upgrade to the new '02 design. Then I can get best of new design at same time I'll be ready to trade/sell the '99.

dudka · October 2001

I test drove the 5 spd CR-V EX, and only had two complaints. for some reason the 5 spd version is much noisier and rouhger than the auto. maybe it was just the particular car, but since they only had one 5 spd on the lot, i couldn;t really compare it to another. the other drawback of the EX, is the light gray interior. I liked the dark gray interior of the SE, leatherette in particullar did not really thrill me, but that was the only way to get darker interior.
You said you like the painted bumpers, however, I don't think you get painted bumpers in the EX trim. i think only SE comes with painted bumpers, mirrors, and side trim.
as far as gas mileage, i noticed that it is steadily improving over time, actually the performance is improving too. i am at 8000 miles and it is much faster than it was when new. i usually get about 350 miles out of a tankfull of mixed city and highway driving at 70-75 with moderate acceleration, and some stop and go.
I owned a VW jetta before and can attest that honda is much better in term of reliability and efficiency. my 99 civic ex used to get 38-40 mpg in the same mixed driving mode. while jetta would only get 25 mpg

varmit · October 2001

'99 Silver EX m/t here. Like The Racoon, my average mpg is over 25 and long trips range between 27-29 mpg. The EX does not come with painted bumpers, but you can have it done as a custom job.

Speaking of long trips... Racoon, I'm off to Texas this week, but when I come back I'd like to start planning for the CR-V road rally to FLA.

bordsource · October 2001

How did you add sound insulation to your CR-V? I have a 2001 Civic that I would sure like to quiet just a tad.

leokadia1 · October 2001

My 1997 CRV-abs just turned 124,000 miles today. Mobile 1 oil changes, front brakes @ 86,000, timing belt @ 90,000 and thats it.
In 97 I got a card from Honda on the inter net that allocated a CRV @ introduction. When the car arrived it had my name on the sticker. Did anyone here of that program for the 2002 edition.

I saw the road test today on Motor Week. I can't wait to order one when they come out.

New Jersey John

theracoon · October 2001

Good idea. Drop me an email when you get back and we'll start looking at the route.

jim_loves_cars · October 2001

I will be purchasing a new vehicle next spring (or sooner if I can) and one of my main criteria for consideration is winter driving performance. Like many I'm looking at Subaru's (WRX and Forester) and the CRV. I know shopping the CRV against the WRX is kinda bi-polar, but I guess I'm "eclectic" when it comes to cars.

My question is two-fold. Part one - is the CRV Realtime 4wd system (a "reactive" system) as effective Subaru's AWD system (an "active" system) in the fluffy white stuff? Part two - does it really make a tangible difference?

Thanks - Jim

2001 - 2006 Honda CR-Vs

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