Why are Honda CRVs expensive?

The Honda CR-V is a popular and well-regarded compact SUV, but it is often considered more expensive than its competitors. This is due to a combination of factors, including the CR-V's reputation for quality, reliability, and safety, as well as its strong demand in the market.

Reputation for Quality and Reliability

Honda is known for producing vehicles with a reputation for quality and reliability. The CR-V is no exception, with a long history of positive reviews and high customer satisfaction ratings. This reputation allows Honda to command a higher price point for the CR-V compared to other compact SUVs. 1 2

Safety Features and Ratings

The Honda CR-V is also known for its strong safety features and ratings. The vehicle consistently earns high safety scores from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This added safety and peace of mind is something that many consumers are willing to pay a premium for. 3 7

High Demand and Limited Supply

The Honda CR-V is a highly sought-after vehicle, with strong demand from consumers. This high demand, combined with limited supply, allows Honda to maintain higher prices for the CR-V compared to other compact SUVs. The CR-V's popularity and reputation for quality and reliability contribute to this high demand, enabling Honda to price the vehicle at a premium. 4 10

Conclusion

In summary, the Honda CR-V is considered more expensive than its competitors due to its reputation for quality and reliability, its strong safety features and ratings, and the high demand for the vehicle in the market. These factors allow Honda to command a higher price point for the CR-V, making it a more expensive option in the compact SUV segment.

What holds value better, Toyota or Honda?

Toyota generally has a slight edge over Honda in resale value, though both brands are known for strong performance compared to other manufacturers. Toyota's average five-year depreciation is around 35%, while Honda's is closer to 38–40%. This is largely due to Toyota's reputation for durability and a strong market demand, though some individual models, like the Honda CR-V, may outperform certain Toyota models in specific segments. 
Toyota

• Overall: Consistently ranks as a top brand for resale value and has won the Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Brand award multiple times. 
• Average Depreciation: Loses about 35% of its value in the first five years. 
• Factors: Strong reputation for reliability and durability. 
• Top Performers: Models like the Tacoma and 4Runner consistently have high resale value retention. 

Honda

• Overall: Also has excellent resale value and strong brand reputation for reliability and value, notes Germain Honda of Beavercreek. 
• Average Depreciation: Averages slightly higher depreciation than Toyota, around 38–40% over five years. 
• Factors: Known for providing a strong value, good fuel economy, and engaging driving experience. 
• Top Performers: Some individual models, such as the CR-V, can hold their value very well, with a 54.4% five-year resale value according to a 2025 KBB award. 

Which one to choose?

• Choose Toyota if you are looking for the best possible chance of long-term resale value, especially with models like the Tacoma or 4Runner. 
• Choose Honda if you prioritize a strong balance of value, driving excitement, fuel efficiency, and still want a vehicle that holds its value well, with a strong reputation for reliability. 

Which CR-V 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. 

Why is the new CR-V so expensive?

While pricing has gone up for the 2026 CR-V and CR-V Hybrid, the SUVs benefit from extra tech features. The CR-V lineup now comes with a nine-inch touchscreen that replaces last year's seven-inch display and the EX-L benefits from a new 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster.

What are the negatives about Honda CR-V?

Negative aspects of the Honda CR-V include potential mechanical issues like sticky steering, fuel pump problems, and engine/transmission complaints in certain model years. Additionally, some models lack features found in competitors, such as a spare tire on hybrid versions, a 360-degree camera, and heated rear seats, and may face higher insurance costs due to high theft rates in some regions. 
Potential mechanical and performance issues

• Steering problems: Some owners report "sticky steering," which can cause over-correction while driving. 
• Engine and fuel pump issues: Certain model years have been associated with engine problems, such as excessive oil consumption or fuel pump failures. The 1.5L turbocharged engine in newer models may have long-term durability questions compared to larger, naturally aspirated engines. 
• Transmission shudder: Some previous model years have experienced a CVT shudder or hesitation. 
• Forward collision avoidance system issues: The system has been reported to have problems. 

Missing features and technology 

• Lack of desired features: Even higher trims may lack features like a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, or a panoramic sunroof, which are available on some rivals. 
• No spare tire on hybrid: The hybrid models do not come with a spare tire. 
• Underpowered engine: The base 1.5L turbocharged engine can feel underpowered, especially in older models. 

Other considerations

• Higher price: The CR-V, particularly the hybrid version, can be expensive, sometimes exceeding the price of rivals. 
• High theft risk: The CR-V is a popular target for car thieves in many areas, which can result in higher insurance premiums. 
• Basic cabin: Some reviewers describe the cabin as basic compared to competitors.