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Is the Honda CR-V a sedan or SUV?

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV, not a sedan. It is a popular and versatile vehicle that combines the spaciousness and utility of an SUV with the drivability and fuel efficiency of a smaller car.

What is the Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that has been in production since 1995. It is one of Honda's best-selling and most successful models, 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 sedan or hatchback.

Key Characteristics of the Honda CR-V

Body Style: The CR-V has a taller, more upright stance compared to a sedan, with a higher ground clearance and a larger cargo area. This gives it the utility and versatility of an SUV.

Drivetrain: The CR-V is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, providing the option for enhanced traction and off-road capability.

Seating Capacity: The CR-V can seat up to five passengers, making it a practical choice for families or those who need to transport more people than a typical sedan.

Fuel Efficiency: Despite its SUV-like design, the CR-V is relatively fuel-efficient, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings that are competitive with many sedans.

In summary, the Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV, not a sedan. It combines the spaciousness and utility of an SUV with the drivability and fuel efficiency of a smaller car, making it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers.

What's the difference between a CR-V and SUV?

Larger SUVs such as the Ford Expedition or Chevrolet Tahoe are typically built using body-on-frame construction, whereas the CR-V utilizes a unibody design. Unibody construction means that the vehicle's body and frame are integrated into one single structure, offering several advantages for a crossover like the CR-V.

What is the Honda CR-V classified as?

A Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV. It balances the size and fuel efficiency of a car with the practicality, higher driving position, and available all-wheel drive of an SUV. It is known for its roomy interior, cargo space, and reliability.

Compact crossover SUV: This classification indicates it's smaller than a traditional, larger SUV but offers SUV-like features.
Practicality and space: The CR-V is designed to be practical, with seating for up to five people and a generous cargo area.
Versatility: It offers features like available all-wheel drive for better traction and is available with various engine options, including hybrid powertrains.

What are the weakness of 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.

Is a Honda CR-V a sedan or SUV?

compact SUV crossover
The CR-V delivers a dynamic driving experience as a compact SUV crossover, with an efficient hybrid powertrain or a responsive 1.5L turbocharged engine.

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.