How Much Do You Really Know About Honda's CR-V?
Original: Honda Magazine
Date: August 25, 2020
🚗 How Much Do You Know About Honda's CR-V, The Popular SUV?
The CR-V revolutionized the SUV market back in 1995 and continues to be a favorite worldwide! 🌏 From its Civic-based origins to becoming a global icon, this story is a must-read for car enthusiasts.
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🔍 Dive into the CR-V’s rich history and find out how it became one of Honda’s flagship vehicles. 🌟 Read more now!
The CR-V can be considered one of the first SUVs recognized in the domestic market—truly one of the earliest. Its introduction coincided with the end of the domestic Pajero craze when the "gas-guzzling Pajero" fell out of favor as a practical private vehicle. At this moment, the compact CR-V entered the market and quickly gained traction, especially in southern China, where its visibility even surpassed the Pajero.
The first-generation CR-V debuted in October 1995, with its main competitor being the earlier-released Toyota RAV4. However, the high price and three-door short-wheelbase design of the first-generation RAV4 made it difficult for Chinese consumers to accept. In Europe, Japanese automakers’ proactive attitude starkly contrasted with the sluggish response of European manufacturers. Aside from Mercedes launching the M-Class in 1997—a combination of off-road chassis and full-time four-wheel drive at a premium price—most brands were either stuck in their ways, asleep, or struggling near bankruptcy.
Design for the first-generation CR-V began in 1993, and it hit the market in 1995. Though it came a year after the RAV4, its sales far outpaced its competitor. From the outset, the CR-V became a global vehicle, showcasing the prowess of the EK platform.
Know the Difference Between Off-Road and SUV
Let’s assume our readers can distinguish between off-road vehicles and SUVs. If you think SUVs can help you conquer mountains and rugged terrain, we suggest you unsubscribe. This content isn’t designed to satisfy your curiosity.
The CR-V is a classic entry-level SUV and one of the earliest in the world. To this day, it retains its role as a Compact SUV with essential features. First-generation models RD1/2 derived their chassis from the sixth-generation Civic; the second-generation RD4/5/6/7/8 came from the seventh-generation Civic. The third-generation RE3/4 referenced the platform of Acura RDX (Global Light Truck Platform). The fourth-generation RM1/2 continued the third-generation structure. The fifth-generation RW and RT returned to the Civic chassis.
The CR-V’s name can also be interpreted as "Civic Related Vehicle," although officially, it stands for "Comfortable Runabout Vehicle." Regardless of which explanation resonates more, the CR-V is undeniably equivalent to the C-segment sedan in the SUV class.
The First-Generation CR-V (1995)
The first CR-V originated from the sixth-generation EK Civic. Both front and rear suspensions were modified from EK’s double-wishbone system. However, don’t expect it to have the same handling as the Civic; it falls short, even reaching only half the capability of the EK. Expecting SUV-level handling is simply wishful thinking.
Released on October 9, 1995, the first CR-V was based on the EK Civic platform. While Toyota’s RAV4 beat it to the market by a year, CR-V sales soon eclipsed the Corolla-based RAV4. In the 1990s, Honda’s reputation—bolstered by the launch of VTEC—dominated Asia, both on the racetrack and in street racing. In Japan, CR-V demand was so high that delivery times stretched to three months, a rare occurrence in the country.
Curiously, Honda chose not to equip the first CR-V with a VTEC engine, instead using the largest-displacement B-series engine, the B20B. Weighing just 1,340 kilograms, the B20B’s low-end torque made the CR-V user-friendly and easy to drive. The RD2 model featured a Real-Time All-Wheel Drive system well-suited for snowy, icy roads in Japan's Hokkaido region.
Manual versions used a space-saving floor shifter, while automatics featured a dashboard-mounted shift lever. Those unaccustomed to the latter found it peculiar at first but often grew to appreciate it.
From Local Demand to Global Success
While many features initially catered to Japanese needs, the CR-V’s global potential became evident with its success. As one of Honda's "Big Five" alongside Fit/Jazz, Civic, Accord, and NSX, the CR-V holds a pivotal role. However, history reminds us that the first-generation CR-V was initially designed solely for Japan, with no plans for export.
This changed in 1997 when Honda North America recognized its potential. The CR-V debuted at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1997 as a left-hand drive variant, despite challenges adapting the right-hand-oriented Civic and B-series engine. It immediately gained popularity, marking the CR-V's unstoppable rise in North America.
In December 1998, a mid-cycle refresh introduced several changes: the spare tire moved from a vertical to horizontal position, the side-opening tailgate was simplified, and horsepower increased from 145 to 150. The addition of Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and a switch from four-lug to five-lug wheels improved safety and performance.
Production of the first-generation CR-V ended in August 2001.
Evolution of CR-V Through Generations
Second Generation (2001-2006)
Unveiled on September 18, 2001, the second-generation CR-V adopted the seventh-generation Civic (ES) platform. The K20A engine replaced the B20B, and subsequent upgrades introduced the K24A engine for better torque and performance. By 2004, the CR-V had solidified its reputation in China, becoming the country's introductory SUV model.
Third Generation (2006-2011)
Debuting in September 2006 in the U.S. and October in Japan, the third generation marked a significant leap forward. Its new platform, shared with Acura RDX, brought structural and functional improvements, including the shift from a side-hinged tailgate to a liftgate. Enhanced reliability and engine options further boosted global sales.
Fourth Generation (2011-2016)
Revealed at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show, the fourth generation emphasized fuel efficiency with CVT transmissions and Earth Dreams direct-injection engines. Advanced safety features like Honda Sensing also debuted, keeping the CR-V competitive.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
This article provides a snapshot of the first four generations of the CR-V. While the fifth generation enters the era of small-displacement turbo engines, its future remains open to interpretation. However, Honda's innovative edge seems to have diminished. Once an SUV pioneer, Honda now appears to follow trends.
Would a CR-V Si with a K20C engine rekindle excitement among diehard Honda fans? Only time will tell. For now, the CR-V Hybrid may offer a balance of efficiency and practicality, meeting the modern SUV buyer's desire for comfort and economy.
Fifth-Generation CR-V: Efficient, Powerful, Practical. Isn’t that the essence of an SUV?
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