Highlights*
Reliability, generous legroom, an ergonomic layout, and good residual value make the Honda CR-V a smart choice for compact SUV/CUV shoppers. It's also comfortable and nicely equipped.
Lowlights*
On the other hand, the 2013 Honda CR-V's performance and driving excitement fail to match a number of rivals. Moreover, soundproofing and rearward visibility are said to be insufficient.
Pricing
The base LX model starts at $27,645, and comes standard with many convenient features such as Honda's intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), a rearview camera, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Next up is the EX model at $29,595, which includes automatic climate control, a sunroof, and automatic headlights. Both are available with Real Time AWD for an extra $2,000 or so.
Farther up the ladder, you'll find the EX-L model. For $33,895, buyers get AWD, leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel, a power adjustable driver's seat, and 360 watts of sound. However, those looking for a luxurious CR-V will best be served by the Touring model, which encompasses all of the above along with GPS-based navigation, an auto-dimming mirror, and roof rails. This one retails from $35,795.
Fuel consumption
Without the Real Time AWD system, the 2013 Honda CR-V burns 9.0L/100km in the city, 6.4L/100km on the highway, and 7.8L/100km combined. These numbers jump to 9.2/6.6/8.1 when you add AWD.
New for 2013
The Honda CR-V was completely redesigned for 2013, and now boasts sportier, more refined looks. Also, engineers reduced internal friction in a move that contributes to superior power (+5 hp) and torque (+2 lb-ft).
Styling
Key cosmetic changes include stretched headlights, a more aggressive front grille, and a whole new interpretation of the CR-V's signature vertical taillights. The side windows feature a chrome surrounding and a sharp wedge toward the back.
Cargo capacity
The 2013 Honda CR-V can swallow 1,054 or up to 2,007 litres of cargo, depending on the seating configuration.
Powertrain
Unlike some of the newer players, this Japanese crossover makes do without a turbocharger and direct injection. However, the reliable 2.4L 4-cylinder engine in the 2013 Honda CR-V produces a healthy 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque through a 5-speed automatic transmission. No manual gearbox is available.
Safety
Six airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, 4-wheel ABS, and a tire pressure monitoring system are some of the safety highlights of the 2013 Honda CR-V, regardless of trim level.
Competitors
Volkswagen Tiguan, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson
* Based on expert reviews.
Richard Louis-Alain, L’auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.274
Duquet Denis, Le guide de l’auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions de l’homme, 2012, p.296
Reliability, generous legroom, an ergonomic layout, and good residual value make the Honda CR-V a smart choice for compact SUV/CUV shoppers. It's also comfortable and nicely equipped.
Lowlights*
On the other hand, the 2013 Honda CR-V's performance and driving excitement fail to match a number of rivals. Moreover, soundproofing and rearward visibility are said to be insufficient.
 |
Pricing
The base LX model starts at $27,645, and comes standard with many convenient features such as Honda's intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID), a rearview camera, air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and more. Next up is the EX model at $29,595, which includes automatic climate control, a sunroof, and automatic headlights. Both are available with Real Time AWD for an extra $2,000 or so.
Farther up the ladder, you'll find the EX-L model. For $33,895, buyers get AWD, leather upholstery on the seats and steering wheel, a power adjustable driver's seat, and 360 watts of sound. However, those looking for a luxurious CR-V will best be served by the Touring model, which encompasses all of the above along with GPS-based navigation, an auto-dimming mirror, and roof rails. This one retails from $35,795.
Fuel consumption
Without the Real Time AWD system, the 2013 Honda CR-V burns 9.0L/100km in the city, 6.4L/100km on the highway, and 7.8L/100km combined. These numbers jump to 9.2/6.6/8.1 when you add AWD.
New for 2013
The Honda CR-V was completely redesigned for 2013, and now boasts sportier, more refined looks. Also, engineers reduced internal friction in a move that contributes to superior power (+5 hp) and torque (+2 lb-ft).
Styling
Key cosmetic changes include stretched headlights, a more aggressive front grille, and a whole new interpretation of the CR-V's signature vertical taillights. The side windows feature a chrome surrounding and a sharp wedge toward the back.
Cargo capacity
The 2013 Honda CR-V can swallow 1,054 or up to 2,007 litres of cargo, depending on the seating configuration.
Powertrain
Unlike some of the newer players, this Japanese crossover makes do without a turbocharger and direct injection. However, the reliable 2.4L 4-cylinder engine in the 2013 Honda CR-V produces a healthy 185 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque through a 5-speed automatic transmission. No manual gearbox is available.
Safety
Six airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control, Hill Start Assist, 4-wheel ABS, and a tire pressure monitoring system are some of the safety highlights of the 2013 Honda CR-V, regardless of trim level.
Competitors
Volkswagen Tiguan, Nissan Rogue, Mazda CX-5, Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Kia Sportage, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson
 |
| Photo: Honda |
* Based on expert reviews.
Richard Louis-Alain, L’auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.274
Duquet Denis, Le guide de l’auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions de l’homme, 2012, p.296
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