Auto123.com - Helping you drive happy

2003 Honda CR-V EX-L Road Test

|
Obtain the best financial rate for your car loan at Automobile En DirectTecnic
Alexandra Straub

Speaking as an off-season snowboarder that 4WD would be ideal for getting back and forth to the various mountains I go to throughout the winter months. What's more it has tons of interior cargo space, perfect for storing all my gear. That great fuel economy would be appreciated too, letting me enjoy the mountain more with less need to work in order to fill the tank.

The CR-V is fun and sporty but doesn't stand out, which can be a good thing. (Photo: Honda)

All in all, the CR-V EX-L is a fun ride. I like many of its features while its powertrain moves it along quickly enough to satisfy my need for speed, but to fully win my heart over it's missing something I can't quite put my finger on. Maybe it's the fact that I like to be noticed when I am in a car, I don't like to blend in. It's just a personal thing. It's good looking, but not particularly distinct. Yet the CR-V's popularity shows that not all hold my priorities. And maybe that's a good thing.

Specifications:

  • Price Range (MSRP):$32,400 (no options)
  • Body Type: 5-door SUV, steel unibody
  • Layout: front engine, 4WD
  • Engine: 160 hp, 162 lb-ft torque, 2.4-L, 16-valve, DOHC I-4
  • Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto)
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
  • Curb Weight: 1,480 kg (3,263 lbs)
  • Seating Capacity: 5
  • Cargo Cap (seat up/folded): 949 / 2,039 L (33.5 / 72.0 cu ft)
  • Ground Clearance: 206 mm (8.1 in)
  • Towing Capacity: 680 kg (1,500 lb)
  • Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.0 / 8.6 L/100 Km
  • Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
  • Direct Competitors: Chevy Tracker, Ford Escape, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Liberty, Kia Sportage, Land Rover Freelander, Mazda Tribute, Pontiac Vibe, Saturn VUE, Suzuki Vitara/Grand Vitara, Toyota RAV4/Matrix
  • Web Site: www.honda.ca
Alexandra Straub
Alexandra Straub
Automotive expert