What is the interior material of the Honda CR-V?
The interior materials in the Honda CR-V vary by trim and model year. In general, base trims use cloth upholstery, while higher trims upgrade to leather or leatherette (synthetic leather).
Interior materials by trim
Below is a typical breakdown for recent CR-V models. Materials can vary by market and year; always check your specific vehicle’s build sheet.
- LX: Cloth upholstery (fabric seats) with soft-touch upper dash panels.
- EX: Cloth upholstery, continuing with fabric seating but often with upgraded trim and features.
- EX-L: Leather-trimmed seats (synthetic leather) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel (in most configurations).
- Touring: Leather-trimmed seats (often perforated leather) with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and premium interior accents.
In short, the CR-V’s interior materials follow a trim-based ladder: entry-level cloth seating and surfaces, rising to leather or leatherette in higher trims, with soft-touch materials throughout the cabin.
Other cabin materials and finishes
Beyond seating, the CR-V uses soft-touch plastics on the upper surfaces and practical hard plastics on lower panels. Higher trims frequently feature contrast stitching, metallic or piano-black trim, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel to enhance the premium feel. Some markets also offer upgraded upholstery options or colorways dependent on trim and options.
Model-year notes
The contemporary CR-V lineup (2023–present) keeps the same general pattern of cloth on base trims and leather/leatherette on higher trims, with consistent soft-touch surfaces across the cabin. Hybrid variants align with the same trim-based material choices as their gasoline counterparts.
Summary
Overall, the Honda CR-V’s interior materials are primarily cloth on entry-level trims and leather or leatherette on higher trims, with soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. For buyers seeking a more premium feel, look to EX-L or Touring trims, and confirm the exact materials for the model year you’re considering.
Which CRV to stay away from?
You should be wary of the Honda CR-V models from 2007–2009 and 2017–2019, as these years are frequently cited for significant issues like HVAC failures, engine problems, and electrical glitches. Other models to approach with caution include 2011 (excessive oil consumption) and 2014-2015 (engine vibrations).
Years with more reported issues
- 2007–2009: This generation experienced issues with HVAC systems, paint, and airbag malfunctions.
- 2011: Known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
- 2014–2015: Prone to engine vibrations, especially at idle. The 2015 model also had issues with the new CVT transmission.
- 2017–2019: The first years of the fifth generation had a significant problem with gasoline diluting the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine damage. Some models also reported electrical problems.
Important considerations
- Engine oil dilution: This was a major issue for the 2017 and 2018 models with the 1.5L turbo engine, as gas could mix with the oil, reducing its lubricating properties.
- HVAC failures: Common in the 2007 model, with early and expensive AC compressor failures being frequently reported.
- Vibrations: Specifically, the 2014 and 2015 models had noticeable engine vibrations, particularly at low speeds or idle.
- Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 model is notorious for this, which can cause major engine problems if ignored.
Does Honda use faux leather?
Honda uses, the same as most other manufacturers, a mix of actual leather and vinyl. On the coupes youre looking at leather seating surfaces, with vinyl sides and back.
Does the Honda CR-V have a leather interior?
Yes, the Honda CR-V has leather seats, but only on specific trim levels like the EX-L, Sport-L Hybrid, and Sport Touring Hybrid. Lower trims such as the LX and EX come standard with cloth seats.
- Leather-trimmed: Higher trims, including the EX-L and Sport Touring Hybrid, come with luxury-oriented, leather-trimmed seats.
- Cloth: Entry-level trims, like the LX and EX, feature standard cloth seating.
- Specialized cloth: The TrailSport Hybrid trim has a unique cloth interior with a rugged design and orange contrast stitching.
How to clean a CRV interior?
Interior Cleaning
Vacuum the interior, including the seats, carpets, and mats. Use a fabric cleaner for cloth seats or a leather conditioner for leather seats. Wipe down all surfaces with a suitable cleaner to remove dust and grime.
