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Is the CRV a hatchback or SUV?

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV, not a hatchback. It combines the spaciousness and utility of an SUV with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a smaller vehicle.

What is the Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V is a popular compact crossover SUV that has been in production since 1995. It is one of Honda's best-selling models and is known for its practical design, comfortable interior, and reliable performance. The CR-V is classified as a crossover SUV, which means it combines features of both a traditional SUV and a passenger car.

Hatchback vs. SUV

The main differences between a hatchback and an SUV are:

Body Style: Hatchbacks have a rear door that opens upwards, while SUVs have a more traditional boxy shape with a rear liftgate.

Size and Cargo Space: SUVs are generally larger and offer more cargo space than hatchbacks.

Drivetrain: SUVs often have all-wheel or four-wheel drive capabilities, while hatchbacks are typically front-wheel drive.

Ground Clearance: SUVs have higher ground clearance, making them better suited for off-road driving and handling rough terrain.

Based on these characteristics, the Honda CR-V is clearly an SUV, not a hatchback.

Conclusion

In summary, the Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV, not a hatchback. It offers the spaciousness and utility of an SUV, with the maneuverability and fuel efficiency of a smaller vehicle. The CR-V's boxy shape, higher ground clearance, and available all-wheel drive system distinguish it from a hatchback.

Is the Honda CR-V a hatchback or SUV?

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV, often described as a crossover SUV. It has the higher ground clearance and spacious interior of an SUV but is built on a unibody platform for a more car-like driving experience, making it different from larger, body-on-frame SUVs. While its tailgate opens from the rear like a hatchback, its overall design and classification are that of an SUV.

SUV Classification: The CR-V is officially classified as a compact SUV or crossover SUV, a category that blends the attributes of traditional SUVs with the fuel efficiency and comfort of smaller vehicles.
Construction: It uses a unibody construction, which integrates the body and frame into a single structure, resulting in a lighter vehicle with a more comfortable and responsive ride, unlike larger, body-on-frame SUVs.
Distinction from Hatchback: While the rear cargo area opens with a large, upward-swinging hatch, this is a common feature for most SUVs and crossovers, not just hatchbacks. The overall design and size place it firmly in the SUV category.

Is a CR-V considered a SUV?

Yes, a Honda CR-V is considered an SUV, specifically a compact crossover SUV. It's a popular and versatile vehicle that combines the elevated driving position and cargo space of an SUV with the fuel efficiency and car-like handling of a car.

Classification: It is officially classified as a compact SUV or crossover, a subcategory that typically has unibody construction like a car, rather than the body-on-frame construction of traditional trucks and larger SUVs.
SUV features: The CR-V offers many features associated with SUVs, such as a spacious interior, ample cargo room, and available all-wheel drive (AWD).
Car-like benefits: Its crossover design provides smoother handling and better fuel economy than larger, traditional SUVs, making it well-suited for daily driving and urban environments.

What Honda models are hatchback?

Current and recent Honda hatchback models include the Civic Hatchback (including the performance-oriented Type R) and the subcompact Fit, which was previously known as the Jazz. The Prelude is also a model that has a hatchback body style.

You can watch this video to get an overview of the Honda Civic Hatchback's features and design: 53sHondaYouTube · Aug 1, 2025
Civic Hatchback

Civic Hatchback: A compact hatchback known for its reliability and practical cargo space.
Civic Type R: A high-performance version of the Civic Hatchback.
Civic Hatchback Hybrid: A fuel-efficient hybrid variant of the Civic Hatchback.

Other models

Fit (Jazz): A subcompact hatchback known for its versatility and efficiency.
Prelude: A new hybrid model that is available as a hatchback.

This video provides a detailed look at the 2025 Honda Civic Hatchback's styling and features: 47sHondaYouTube · Aug 1, 2025

What are the weaknesses of the Honda CR-V?

Key drawbacks of the Honda CR-V include its high purchase price compared to rivals, a less spacious rear seat and cargo area than some competitors, and a lack of a seven-seat option. Other disadvantages mentioned are increased road noise, a basic cabin in lower trims, and potentially underpowered performance for the non-hybrid engine. Older model years have specific issues, such as engine, transmission, and airbag problems.
Cost and value

High price: The CR-V can be expensive, especially when compared to some competitors in the segment.
Limited value in lower trims: The base trim level may lack some key safety features or have a more basic interior compared to higher trims or some rivals.

This video discusses the pricing and value of the Honda CR-V, including its features compared to competitors: 58sMotorNationYouTube · Apr 16, 2025
Space and utility

Limited rear and cargo space: It is not as roomy in the back seat or the cargo area as some rivals.
No seven-seat option: The CR-V is only available as a five-seater, which may be a dealbreaker for some families.
No spare tire: The modern CR-V often lacks a spare tire and the necessary storage space under the floor for one.

Performance and driving experience

Underpowered engine: Some reviewers find the non-hybrid engine to be underpowered, particularly for highway driving and when the vehicle is fully loaded.
Increased road noise: The CR-V can have higher levels of road noise compared to some rivals.

This video reviews the performance and driving experience of the Honda CR-V, including engine power and handling: 54sDownshiftYouTube · Feb 8, 2024
Technology and comfort

Dated infotainment: The user interface can look a bit dated compared to competitors.
Lack of features: Some trims lack certain features, such as a visible engine temperature gauge or ambient interior lighting.

Reliability concerns (especially for older models)

Older model years: Certain older CR-V models (like 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019) are more frequently cited for problems like engine failures, transmission issues, and airbag malfunctions.
Recent models: Some recent models (2018-2022) have faced lawsuits regarding potential engine defects.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.