What is the ground clearance of Honda CR-V old model?

The ground clearance of Honda CR‑V models labeled as “old” varies by generation and trim, so there isn’t a single universal figure. In general, older CR‑Vs sit in the mid-single digits of inches, with newer generations tending to sit a bit higher. The figures below reflect common ranges reported for the first through fourth generations.

Ground clearance matters for approach angles, rough-terrain capability, and ride height, and Honda adjusted suspension and wheel options across generations. This article breaks down typical clearance by generation and highlights factors that can shift a measurement. For a precise figure, check the specific model year, trim, and wheel/tire setup in official specs or a vehicle’s owners manual.

Ground clearance by generation (older CR-Vs)

Below are representative ground-clearance figures for older CR‑V generations. Figures can vary with trim, wheel size, and suspension tuning.

First generation (1997–2001)

Original CR‑Vs generally offered modest clearance, with typical figures around the mid-6-inch range.

• Ground clearance: approximately 6.3–6.7 inches (160–170 mm)

These early models prioritized on-road comfort and fuel efficiency, with enough height for light snow and uneven pavement but limited for serious off-road use.

Second generation (2002–2006)

In the early 2000s, the CR‑V’s stance remained practical for urban driving while offering a touch more height on some trims.

• Ground clearance: approximately 6.5–6.9 inches (165–175 mm)

The suspension retained a compact-SUV feel, balancing ride quality with improved capability over rougher surfaces.

Third generation (2007–2011)

The third generation saw a modest increase in ground clearance as the platform matured and wheel options varied more widely.

• Ground clearance: approximately 7.3–7.5 inches (185–190 mm)

With broader wheel choices and refined suspension, these models offered better clearance for light off-road use while maintaining daily drivability.

Fourth generation (2012–2016)

By the mid-2010s, the CR‑V had settled into a higher ride height relative to its earliest iterations.

• Ground clearance: approximately 7.5–7.8 inches (190–198 mm)

Higher clearance helped with uneven lots, speed bumps, and modest off-road obstacles, without compromising on-road comfort.

Key factors that affect ground clearance

Several variables can shift the measured ground clearance for a given model year and trim:

• Wheel diameter and tire profile (larger wheels or taller tires can reduce measured clearance).


• Suspension tuning and optional suspension packages.


• Load and access height, as some measurements are taken with standard weight and level ground.


• Engineering revisions within a generation (mid-cycle refreshes may alter ride height slightly).

When evaluating a specific vehicle, obtain the exact figure from the owner’s manual or official Honda specifications for that model year and trim to account for these variables.

How to verify the exact ground clearance on a specific CR-V

To confirm a precise value for a particular car, measure the distance from the ground to the lowest point of the underbody at static ride height on level ground. If possible, use the vehicle’s official specifications or contact a Honda dealership for the exact figure corresponding to the trim and wheel/tire setup in question.

Summary

Old Honda CR‑V models show a progression in ground clearance from roughly 6.3 inches in the earliest years to about 7.8 inches in later generations, with most mid-generation models landing around the mid-to-high 7-inch range. The exact value for any given car depends on year, trim, wheels, and suspension, so consult the specific specs for precision.

Which Honda car has the highest ground clearance?

The Honda with the highest ground clearance is the 2026 Passport, at 8.3 inches. This is followed closely by the CR-V with an AWD system, which has up to 8.2 inches of clearance, and the HR-V Sport, which has 7.3 inches. 
You can watch this video to learn more about the 2026 Honda Passport: 59sVision Effect TVYouTube · Nov 13, 2024

• 2026 Honda Passport: Offers 8.3 inches of ground clearance, plus a wider stance and enhanced off-road features like underbody protection. 
• Honda CR-V: With the optional Real Time AWD system, it can reach up to 8.2 inches of ground clearance. 
• Honda HR-V: The Sport trim has the highest ground clearance in the lineup, at 7.3 inches. 

This video explains the ground clearance of the 2024 Honda CR-V: 57sFernandez HondaYouTube · Feb 26, 2024

What is the ground clearance of a 2015 Honda CR-V?

The 2015 Honda CR-V has a ground clearance of 6.4 inches for two-wheel drive (2WD) models and 6.8 inches for all-wheel drive (AWD) models.
 

• 2WD models: 6.4 inches
• AWD models: 6.8 inches
• Note: This measurement is for an unloaded vehicle. Adding passengers or cargo will reduce the ground clearance.

Are there any CR-V years to avoid?

Years to avoid for the Honda CR-V include 2002-2003, 2007-2009, and 2017-2019, as they are associated with common issues like excessive oil consumption, air conditioning failures, and engine problems. Specifically, the 2017–2019 models had engine oil dilution and brake issues, while older years like 2002–2003 are known for oil consumption and AC problems. 
This video discusses the Honda CR-V's best and worst years and common problems: 57scar PROblemsYouTube · May 7, 2025
Model years to approach with caution

• 2002–2003: Prone to high oil consumption and early air conditioning system failures. 
• 2007–2009: Issues include problems with the air conditioning, excessive oil consumption, and paint problems. 
• 2010–2011: Both years have been linked to excessive oil consumption. The 2011 model also had recalls related to unintended acceleration and steering issues. 
• 2014–2015: These models experienced persistent engine vibrations, particularly at idle. 
• 2017–2019: These years had multiple problems including engine oil dilution (from gasoline getting into the engine oil), potential brake issues, and general electrical problems with the AC and heating systems. 

Important considerations

• Maintenance is key: A well-maintained CR-V from a "problematic" year can still be a good vehicle. Regular oil changes are critical for engine longevity. 
• Vehicle inspection: Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a trusted mechanic to catch potential issues before buying. 
• Rust and suspension: Older models can be susceptible to suspension issues, and rust can lead to more costly repairs. 

What is the ground clearance on a Honda CR-V?

The ground clearance for a Honda CR-V is 7.8 inches for two-wheel drive (2WD) models and 8.2 inches for all-wheel drive (AWD) models. The AWD version offers slightly more clearance, which can be beneficial for handling uneven terrain.
 

• 2WD: 7.8 inches
• AWD: 8.2 inches