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2013 Honda CR-V Review
What's New for 2013
Interior
By KBB.com Editors
KBB Expert Rating: 7.5
Fresh from its complete makeover last year, the 2013 Honda CR-V compact SUV carries on largely unchanged. The 5-passenger CR-V remains modestly-sized on the outside, but is extremely roomy inside, with a rear seat that accommodates adults and a proper-sized cargo area. Available in LX, EX and the leather-appointed EX-L, the CR-X for 2013 offers varying levels of features and equipment packed into each trim level. However, new rivals, such as the Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-5 and Ford Escape, offer better audio and infotainment systems, more features and, in some cases, more horsepower and better fuel economy. Still, it's hard to argue with the CR-V's excellent repair history and it continues to lead the pack in terms of long-term resale values.
You'll Like This Car If...
If you're looking for simple, dependable transportation in a vehicle that can handle snow and mud as efficiently as it does a day of cruising yard sales, the 2013 Honda CR-V is an excellent choice. Need more reasons? There's good fuel economy, a reasonable price and lots of standard equipment.
You May Not Like This Car If...
Those needing the power of a V6 (for towing) or the convenience of a third-row seat won't be interested in the 2013 Honda CR-V. The Ford Escape and Hyundai Santa Fe offer more powerful engines with the same or better fuel economy as the CR-V.
What's New for 2013
No major changes for 2013.
Driving the CR-V
Driving Impressions Building on the Honda CR-V's already-stellar reputation for being easy to drive and easy to live with, the latest iteration has raised those benchmarks in modest but genuinely meaningful ways....
Extensive noise reduction efforts yield a quiet, well-isolated passenger compartment, and the rigid unit-body structure, coupled with taut suspension tuning, gives the 2013 Honda CR-V impressively capable handling characteristics. Honda equips the CR-V with its Motion-Adaptive electric power steering system that interfaces with the standard stability control to automatically encourage proper corrective inputs when it senses slippery or uneven road conditions during cornering or braking. For ultimate 4-season security, the 2013 CR-V is available with Honda's Real Time AWD (all-wheel drive) with Intelligent Control System. Smaller, lighter and quicker to respond than the previous Real Time setup, it smoothes out initial acceleration and can transfer up to 100 percent of torque to the rear wheels if necessary.
Favorite Features
INTELLIGENT MULTI-INFORMATION DISPLAY (I-MID)
All 2013 Honda CR-V models come with a new, 5.0-inch LCD color screen in the center of the dash that allows the driver to access and control a range of functions using buttons on the steering wheel.
EASY FOLD REAR SEATS
The backs on the 2013 Honda CR-V's new 60/40-split rear bench seat now flop forward with the pulls of levers conveniently located on either side of the cargo bay to create a near-flat load floor that's over five inches longer than the one in the current CR-V.
2013 Honda CR-V Details
Interior
We like the sophisticated overall look and feel inside the Honda CR-V, highlighted by a smartly-sculpted dash, large and bright gauges and elegant switchgear. Special attention is paid to driver comfort, with supportive front seats that flank an accommodating center console punctuated by two big cup holders. A large covered center stow bin houses USB and auxiliary inputs as well as a 12-volt power point. Although the 2013 CR-V's overall interior dimensions are largely unchanged from the previous two generations, its cargo area now offers a bit more space than before with the rear seat up, but marginally less when it's folded down.
While the 2013 CR-V retains roughly the same dimensions as the last-generation CR-V, it looks substantially larger. With a bold, more aerodynamic look, the CR-V appears a bit more rugged, with swept-up rear quarter windows and edgy front and rear fascia treatments. A steeply-raked windshield and slightly lower roofline effectively complement the CR-V's high-profile grille and lamp treatments, while a large single-piece liftgate, coupled with a significantly lower lift-over height, eases loading and unloading chores. All LX models are fitted with 16-inch steel wheels and 215/70 all-season tires, while EX/EX-L versions have 225/65 tires on 17-inch alloy wheels.
Notable Equipment
Standard Equipment
Honda's CR-V LX for 2013 boasts a full range of power assists, a 160-watt AM/FM/CD audio system with USB/AUX inputs, Bluetooth HandsFree Link, Pandora Internet Radio interface, read-aloud SMS text messaging capability, air conditioning, an intelligent Multi-Information Display, multifunction steering wheel, multi-angle rearview camera, keyless entry, cruise control and a tilt/telescoping steering column. The EX adds various interior and exterior enhancements, a power moonroof, privacy glass, alloy wheels and a security system, while the EX-L gains leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, heated front seats, automatic dual-zone climate control, XM Radio and more.
Optional Equipment
In keeping with its longstanding practice of offering vehicles largely in "mono-spec" trim levels, options for the 2013 Honda CR-V are extremely limited. The LX, EX and EX-L can be fitted with the new Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System, while CR-V EX-L buyers can opt to add either the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with a 6.5-inch dash-mounted touch-screen or a DVD-based Rear Seat Entertainment system that features a single 7.0-inch hi-resolution LCD screen that flips down from the headliner.
Under the Hood
The sole powertrain combination in all 2013 Honda CR-V models is the familiar 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine matched with the equally-familiar 5-speed automatic transmission. Rated at 185 horsepower, the CR-V has fuel economy ratings of 23/31 for front drive models and 22/30 with 4WD. To help in the mileage-maxing cause, all 2013 CR-Vs feature an energy-efficient multistage alternator and come with Honda's Eco Assist system that includes the green "ECON" button on the dash that can modify throttle mapping as well as operation of the air conditioning and cruise control. The maximum tow rating also remains unchanged, at 1,500 pounds.
2.4-liter inline-4
185 horsepower @ 7,000 rpm
163 lb-ft of torque @4,300 rpm
EPA City/highway fuel economy: 23/31 mpg (front-wheel drive), 22/30 mpg (AWD)
Pricing Notes
The 2013 Honda CR-V LX 2WD has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price starting around $23,500, the EX is about $25,500 and the EX-L starts just under $28,500; a fully-loaded model with navigation is around $31,000. Stepping up to all-wheel-drive will add about $1,250. To get your best deal, check the KBB Fair Purchase Price and find out what others in your area are paying for the CR-V. Historically, Honda's CR-V has done an outstanding job of holding onto its value over time, with only the Toyota RAV4 seriously challenging it in that critical area. In marked contrast to many other vehicles, the upline EX – and particularly the EX-L version – leads the CR-V's resale value index, with all-wheel-drive versions also besting front-drive models.
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Honda CR-V vehicles for sale near you.
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2013 Honda CR-V Consumer Reviews
Based on 61 Ratings for the 2012 - 2013 models.
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ValueQuality
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ReliabilityPerformance
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ComfortStyling
It's the little (and not so little) things.....
By New CR-V owner (ID) on Monday, July 29, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 2,000
overall rating 6 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Cons: "not well engineered for driver comfort"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 3
"Unhappy with several significant issues. First the seat belt height is barely adjustable and cuts across my neck no matter what adjustments made with the belt or seat position. Blind spots at front corners of the windshield are significant, along with very limited vision at the rear corners (mirrors and back up camera are good). The Honda emblem embedded in the steering wheel is shiny chrome that reflects into driver's eyes when sun shining in drivers side window. The head restraints force my head forward if the seat back is adjusted forward enough to support my back. I bought this because of Honda reliability and hope that in the long run that will offset my current frustration."
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful
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Great car for what you need to get around...
By Jay (MA) on Tuesday, July 23, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "AWD in snow is great, roomy and great MPG"
Cons: "No cooled seat, PEP is nothing to brag about...."
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
2012 Honda CR-V, EX-L Package, No Nav or RES thou.. Still nice SUV
"I leased the redesigned 2012 CR-V, Honda Lease is awesome!! I replace a Pontiac Torrent (Chevy Equinox twin) with this. It had everything my other car had room for 5, cargo room & AWD. Living in Mass, the AWD is something I look for. The gas mileage is far better than the Torrent. I am averaging 22 MPG, I commute thru 2 towns to the office, no highway. I have driven to central PA and only needed the one tank, Thumbs up to that!! Cons: I kinda wish it had more HP, I know you lose MPG but it would be nice to step on it and go, well better than it does now, maybe a TURBO or V6 option...HHmmm Honda???"
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2012 Honda CR-V, EX-L Package, No Nav or RES thou.. Still nice SUV
GREAT CAR
By DON (OH) on Saturday, July 20, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 14,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Cons: "NONE"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"EXCELLENT SUSPENSION. GOOD RIDE, COMFORTABLE SEATING. 30MPG. FEELS LIKE THE FORD EXPLORER I HAD BUT MUCH EASIER TO DRIVE. DROVE FROM FLA TO OHIO WITH A HEAVY LOAD. COULDN'T EVEN TELL THE DIFFERENCE."
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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2009 CRV
By Ingie (NY) on Monday, July 15, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 25,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "gas mileage, comfort, reliable, excellent in snow"
Cons: "tires, seats stain easily and nasty blind spot"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9
"This car is roomy and comfortable and is a beast in the snow. Very reliable and gas mileage was great. The only downfall was the seats stain very easily. I have grey cloth and you spill water on them and they stain. There is a nasty blind spot in the back and with under 20000 miles, I had to put new tires on the vehicle. If you buy this vehicle, upgrade and get better tires, the Bridgestone Dueler HP tires are lowsy. I would like to buy another one, but I do not like the options they have for tires at my local dealership"
5 people out of 5 found this review helpful
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Nice, reliable car but needs updates on features
By Honda Driver (AZ) on Sunday, July 07, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 15,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "another great Honda vehicle"
Cons: "needs a few updates"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7
"The 2013 Honda CRV drives well overall. I expected the vehicle to have certain features in order to compete with other crossover SUV makers. Some basic features that should have been installed in the 2013 CRV include blind spot indicator, automatic hatch door opener and adjustable air vents for the rear passengers."
6 people out of 8 found this review helpful
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Updated Review!
By New Honda Owner (VA) on Wednesday, May 29, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 18,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsReviewer Ratings
- Overall Rating
- Value
- Reliability
- Quality
- Performance
- Styling
- Comfort
Pros: "Amount of room and good reliability so far"
Cons: "VERY outdated technology (NAV)"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"This is an updated review from my last review on 18 March 2012 titled, "EXCELLENT "SUV" for the Money!" Now that I have done some traveling and put a good amount of miles on it, I'd like to do an updated. I am still very pleased with the purchase and still believe that for the money, there really isn't anything better. Some things I don't like are (some are still from my first review): * The infotainment system (NAV, radio, bluetooth...), can't stand it, still feels and looks outdated and slow to respond, not intuitive at all. I have owned multiple German brand products and their infotainment system is outstanding! I know we are comparing apples to oranges in technology but Honda could seriously give that system a boost for not much money. So if I were you, skip the NAV and buy a portable one. * Gas mileage is good (maybe 22 to 24 mpg's at the most...I think just as advertised); however, it could be better since others in it's class has better mpg's. * Driving dynamics are good; however, any slight wind will sway the car; never really experienced that much swaying in other vehicles unless it was really high winds. * Very underpowered whenever you are merging on the highway or want to pass...not a good feeling to have. I really think Honda needs to get a turbo on that engine or get a V6 option that gives more torque. The things I like: * ROOMY for a small CUV. I can't believe the amount of stuff I can fit in there! That is the biggest selling point if you want a small CUV with a LOT of room. I did a couple of long haul trips with a toddler (if you have kids, you know the amount of stuff you will take with you); also, I moved lots of boxes during a household move. Those fold down seats give you a ridiculous amount of room. * Comfortable on long trips. I made a couple of 600+ mile trips and it was really good. * So far, very reliable. I do get some weird engine noise on first start up whenever the weather was cold. I don't think it's anything major though, just a cold start up. * I like the maintenance display because it tells you how much life the oil has left. I have had 3 oil changes in the last 18000 miles (so about every 5K miles I get one or when the display says 15% life left). The reason why I am giving this CUV a 10 (even though I had some complaints) is because my needs of room and reliability for buying a small CUV were definitely met. I am definitely keeping the vehicle for as long as it runs good."
19 people out of 20 found this review helpful
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