Category: CR-V

May 16

Overlooked Safety Recall Affects Numerous Honda CR-Vs

Recall Spotlight on Honda CR-Vs

In a recall that may have slipped under the radar amidst other high-profile automotive safety campaigns, over 600,000 Honda CR-Vs from the 2007 to 2011 model years have been called back due to a serious structural concern. Unlike the more commonly publicized airbag issues, this recall involves potential corrosion in the rear frame of vehicles, primarily in states where road salt is heavily used. This corrosion can critically weaken the frame, leading to the possible detachment of rear trailing arms.

A blue 2008 Honda CR-V driving on a city freeway the car is part of a rear frame recall released in 2023
2008 Honda CR-V | Honda

The Specifics of the CR-V Recall

The problem was brought to light by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in late March 2023, targeting vehicles that could be affected by excessive rust. This issue specifically affects the bolt holes that secure the rear trailing arms, which are crucial for maintaining proper alignment and stability of the vehicle’s rear suspension. If these arms were to detach, it could significantly impair the driver’s ability to control the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of an accident.

Remedies and Recommendations for CR-V Owners

Honda’s response to this issue includes several potential remedies, ranging from the installation of a custom support brace to complete repairs of the affected rear frame or even a vehicle repurchase in extreme cases. For owners of the affected models or potential buyers, it’s crucial to verify whether the vehicle has been inspected or repaired under NHTSA campaign number 23V228000. Honda began notifying affected owners in May 2023, urging them to bring their vehicles in for inspection and necessary modifications to prevent any safety risks associated with this issue.

Feb 18

Honda CR-V Crowned Best Medium SUV Under $50K for 2024

Car of the Year

The Honda CR-V has made a triumphant return, claiming the prestigious title of Best Medium SUV under $50K in the 2024 Drive Car of the Year awards. This category is crucial for Australian buyers, who favor medium SUVs more than any other vehicle type, with the average new car transaction exceeding $50,000.

The Honda CR-V stood out in a fiercely competitive field by offering a perfect blend of value, advanced technology, safety, and ample space, all essential for modern family life.

Competitive Landscape

Last year, the Nissan X-Trail took the crown, edging out the Kia Sportage, which had previously unseated the Toyota RAV4 in 2022. This year, the stakes were even higher with a new price cap of $50,000, emphasizing the importance of value for money in this category.

The Honda CR-V faced tough competition from the Nissan X-Trail and another Honda model, the ZR-V, in this closely contested segment.

Why the Honda CR-V Won

Affordability and Value: Despite an $8,600 increase in its entry price, the new Honda CR-V delivers exceptional value. It offers more space, advanced technology, and enhanced safety features compared to its predecessor, making it a top choice for families.

Well-Equipped and Cost-Effective: The CR-V VTi L model, priced at $48,800, includes premium features like 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-appointed seats, and a hands-free power tailgate. The servicing costs are also among the lowest in the industry, at $199 annually or every 10,000km, adding to its overall value proposition.

Spacious and Comfortable: The larger dimensions of the new CR-V translate to a more spacious and stylish interior. The VTi L offers a roomy cabin with a 9.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and wired Android Auto, ensuring a comfortable and connected driving experience.

Performance and Safety

Engine and Driving Experience: The 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, delivers smooth and ample performance. The CR-V’s suspension strikes a balance between comfort and control, making it a reliable companion for both city and highway driving.

Safety Features: All CR-V models come equipped with 11 airbags and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the CR-V is yet to be tested by ANCAP, the safety assessment program.

Future Prospects

Hybrid Technology: While the CR-V offers a hybrid version, it is only available in the top-tier e

RS model, priced at $59,990, exceeding the $50K limit of this category. This hybrid model promises better fuel economy and refined performance, highlighting the potential for more accessible hybrid options in the future.

Additional Features: Although the CR-V lacks some luxury features found in competitors, such as a 360-degree camera or ventilated front seats, its overall package still makes it a standout choice. Future updates may include these enhancements to keep up with the competition.

In conclusion, the Honda CR-V VTi L stands out as a versatile, value-packed, and family-friendly SUV, deserving of its title as the Best Medium SUV under $50K for 2024. Its blend of affordability, advanced features, and spacious design makes it an excellent choice for Australian families.

Aug 19

Assessing the 2024 Honda CR-V: Has It Lost Its Edge in the Compact SUV Market?

The 2024 Honda CR-V once reigned supreme in the compact SUV category, but recent evaluations suggest it might be losing its charm. Critics point out that while the CR-V remains a solid choice, it’s no longer the standout it once was in a rapidly evolving market. This shift raises questions: Is Honda falling behind, or is the competition simply accelerating?

Evaluating the 2024 Honda CR-V: Performance and Pricing

The 2024 Honda CR-V, praised for its comfort and space, continues to offer a commendable driving experience with its latest model. It features enhanced interior space due to an extended wheelbase, ensuring comfort across its three available trims: LX, EX, and EX-L. Starting at $29,500 for the LX with front-wheel drive and reaching up to $34,660 for a fully-loaded model, the CR-V maintains competitive fuel efficiency, with the front-wheel drive model achieving 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. However, adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces these numbers.

Critics like Edmunds acknowledge the CR-V’s enduring appeal but no longer see it as the top contender, now favoring newcomers like the Mazda CX-50. The CR-V’s drawbacks include limited storage for small items and a noisy hybrid model, which may deter some buyers seeking a quieter ride.

Prospects for the Honda CR-V Amidst Fierce Competition

Despite its merits, the 2024 Honda CR-V finds itself in a tougher spot than previous years, positioned in the middle tier of U.S. News’ compact SUV rankings. It faces stiff competition from the Mazda CX-5 and Hyundai Tucson, both of which have garnered accolades for their value and family-friendly attributes. The CR-V’s performance is reliable yet criticized for its sluggish transmission, a minor flaw that doesn’t overshadow its overall capability.

Looking ahead, the longevity of the Honda CR-V remains promising, with potential to exceed 150,000 miles with proper maintenance. Although it’s currently overshadowed by more dynamic rivals, Honda’s track record suggests that forthcoming versions of the CR-V will address any shortcomings. In a market brimming with high-quality options, the CR-V still holds significant appeal due to its blend of functionality, comfort, and enduring value. Honda continues to stick to its proven formula, ensuring that the CR-V remains a top seller, even as it adapts to a changing automotive landscape.