Used Honda CR-V review: 2007-2010

Honda recognised before most that city dwellers were more interested in a high-riding runabout than they were a full-on offroader and met that demand with the CR-V.

NEW

It was a hit from the beginning; it also triggered a rush of similar models from other carmakers looking to cash in. The challenge for Honda then became how to stay ahead of the pack.

In the case of the updated model that arrived in 2007 it was to make it bigger, more refined, and better featured. The new model was wider, with wider tracks, but also had a shorter wheelbase and sat lower.

Compared to the rather boxy model it succeeded, the updated CR-V was rather funky, with flowing lines and a pleasing profile. Unfortunately the front end looked at odds with the rest of it; in fact it just looked odd, and remains so now with its gaping mouth and protruding chin.

If the front-end styling was disappointing, as there was little else to be offended by. The cabin was roomier, quieter and more comfortable, and with the full-sized spare located under the rear instead of on the rear door it was easier to load and unload.

The 2.4-litre engine was given a little more power with virtually the same torque, and there was a new six-speed manual gearbox available alongside the five-speed automatic. The four-wheel drive system was an on-demand type with drive effectively through the front wheels until added traction was needed at the back wheels.

Three variants were available, from the entry-level wagon through the Sport to the Luxury at the top of the range. Each was well equipped with all the features most owners want in a vehicle today. Safety was lifted to a new level with the addition of electronic stability control across the range, and curtain airbags on the Sport and Luxury models.

NOW

Honda justifiably has a reputation for building quality cars and the CR-V appears to be out of the same mould. Apart from the odd complaint about paint fading we get few reports of problems with Hondas at Carsguide, so used CR-Vs can be approached with confidence.

It's important, however, to check that any car under consideration has been regularly serviced as per the Honda schedule. Hondas tend to need nurturing and neglect can lead to real, and expensive problems. 

Unfortunately, in these financially challenging times owners are more likely to skip services to save money, so check for a service record, preferably one from a Honda dealer or independent Honda specialist, or at the very least a reputable mechanic.

If there is any doubt about the servicing of a car, walk away and  shop elsewhere. We have received the odd report about a vibration in the driveline at quite low kays, which was diagnosed as the clutch packs in the rear differential engaging and disengaging, and rectified by changing the oil in the diff.

While it doesn't appear to be widespread it's something to be mindful of when road testing a car before purchase. Also inspect the tyres for uneven wear that could suggest a wheel alignment is in order.

SMITHY SAYS

Bigger, quieter, more comfortable, well built and reliable, but butt ugly. 3 stars.

Honda CR-V 2007-2010

Price new: $31,990 to $41,990
Engine: 2.4-litre 4-cylinder petrol
Transmission: 6-speed manual, 5-speed auto, 4WD
Economy: 10 L/100 km
Body: 4-door wagon
Variants: Wagon, Sport, and Luxury
Safety: 4-star ANCAP

COMING UP

Do you own a Holden Captiva? If so tell us what you think of it by sending your comments to Graham Smith at grah.smith@bigpond.com or Carsguide, PO Box 4245, Sydney, NSW, 2010.