What kind of engine is in a 2013 Honda CR-V?
The 2013 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC engine delivering about 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission; it is available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the engine specifications, performance characteristics, fuel efficiency, and practical considerations for owners and buyers of the 2013 CR-V. The model year represents the fourth generation of the CR-V in the United States, and all US-market trims share the same basic powerplant.
Engine type and specifications
Key details about the engine powering the 2013 CR-V and what they mean for everyday driving.
Key specs
Before listing the core specifications, here are the main facts that define the engine in most US-spec 2013 CR-Vs.
- Engine type: 2.4-liter inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Displacement: 2.4 L
- Horsepower: 185 hp @ 7,000 rpm
- Torque: 163 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm
- Fuel system: Sequential multi-point fuel injection
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Recommended fuel: Regular unleaded gasoline
In this generation, Honda relied on a single gasoline powerplant for the US market, with transmission and drivetrain choices shaping the driving experience rather than offering alternative engines.
Performance and efficiency
How the engine translates to real-world performance and fuel economy for the 2013 CR-V.
EPA estimates reflect the trade-offs between FWD and AWD configurations, as well as typical driving conditions.
- Fuel economy (FWD): approximately 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway
- Fuel economy (AWD): approximately 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Drivetrain impact: AWD adds weight and traction advantages, typically at the expense of a small fuel economy decrease
These figures are estimates; real-world mileage varies with driving style, terrain, and load. The CR-V’s 2.4L engine is known for a balance of power for its class and reasonable efficiency for an SUV of its era.
Maintenance notes and ownership considerations
What buyers and owners should know about maintaining the 2.4L i-VTEC engine in the 2013 CR-V.
- Engine design relies on a timing chain rather than a timing belt, which generally reduces the need for belt replacement intervals
- Regular maintenance (oil changes, filter changes, and air-fuel system upkeep) supports long-term reliability
- Two-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive variants share the same engine, with the primary differences being drivetrain components and fuel economy
When shopping for a used 2013 CR-V, it’s wise to have a mechanic inspect the chain system for wear and confirm there are no leaks or unusual noises, as with any aging vehicle. There was no hybrid option offered in the US for the 2013 model year, so all trims used the gasoline 2.4L engine described above.
Summary
The 2013 Honda CR-V’s engine is a proven 2.4-liter inline-4 with i-VTEC, delivering 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic and available in FWD or AWD. It offers a solid balance of performance and efficiency for its compact-SUV class, with straightforward maintenance characteristics thanks to a timing chain design. For buyers, this means a reliable powerplant that remains common across trims, contributing to predictable performance and market value in the used-car space.
