Summary
What Edmunds.com says
With ample power, room and refinement, the CR-V has almost all you need in a mini sport-utility, as long as you keep on the beaten path.
Pros
Highly versatile and roomy interior, stable handling, comfortable ride, good crash test scores standard airbags, ABS and stability control.
Cons
Limited off-road ability, not as big inside as some of its competitors, no V6 option.
What's New for 2005
All models get redesigned headlamps and front fascias along with antilock brakes, stability control, side airbags for front passengers, head curtain airbags for front and rear occupants, strengthened B-pillars (for better side-impact crash protection) and minor interior styling refinements. A five-speed automatic transmission replaces last year's four-speed unit. The EX receives new alloy wheels, and all models now wear 16-inch wheels. A Special Edition trim debuts that includes heated leather seats, heated mirrors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, as well as body-color bumpers, side molding, door handles and hard spare tire cover.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
100k and No problems!
Vehicle
2005 Honda CR-V Special Edition AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
Review
I've had my CRV for over 4 years now, over 100k miles, no problems except for changing the oil, the tires, the brakes and the rear differential fluid, and I drive aggressively. The CRV is fun to drive, looks attractive even though not new, and I don't feel as if I'm being "overconsumptive" even though I'm driving a SUV.
Favorite Features
big back seat that sits high, ability to sleep in car if needed, that table in the rear end (that I've never used, but I like showing it off!), fun to drive, looks great 4 yrs old even tho dirty and dinged- I still get compliments- looks better than the current version (IMHO)
Suggested Improvements
Road noise can definitely be improved, lighted visor mirrors, electric seat adjustment (on EX or SE models), ability to plug in ipod or mp3 to stereo, some of the "extras" such as fog lights and mudflaps should be standard.
A/C Compressor "Black Death"
Vehicle
2005 Honda CR-V LX Fwd 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5A)
Review
I have been a victim of the A/C compressor defect, along with countless others. I have a 2005 CR-V, which had the first compressor go bad at 56,000 miles. I bought it new from Coral Springs Auto Mall in 08/05. In 05/08, the A/C system failed to blow cold air. I took it in and the dealer told me that the compressor "exploded" and shot filament through the whole system, hoses and all had to be replaced for 3200.00. I am a single mother, and could not afford that. I called my own personal mechanic, who told me that my compressor "locked up", brought it out, and showed me what happened and how it worked. He fixed it for 1300.00.
Favorite Features
Suggested Improvements
62,000+ miles and no problems!
Vehicle
2005 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I purchased my CR-V in 2005 after trading in a '98 Subaru Forester that was starting to give me some headaches. Immediately, I realized I was in a much better, high-end vehicle. I have not had any problems at all with it. Just replaced the battery earlier this year, and I'm looking for my 3rd set of tires (current set of Tiger Paw's are lousy in snow). I will need rear rotors & pads soon, but that's it so far! The gas mileage is fantastic, there's plenty of room for 3 adults in the backseat, tons of cargo room, the exterior looks great - no paint chipping or fade like my old Subaru. Looked at a new '10 Forester just for fun & the interior looks cheap. My CR-V is a Lexus in comparison.
Favorite Features
Steering wheel radio controls, classy exterior appearance, great gas mileage, no squeaks or rattles, manual 5 speed tranny, lots of storage, smooth ride, and the picnic table! Too bad that was discontinued.
Suggested Improvements
Operator controlled AWD for those of us who live in snow country - the brief blast of AWD to the rear wheels isn't enough sometimes. I've gotten stuck in my driveway & couldn't get out without a shovel or snow blower. The key is to get winter tires if you live in very snowy areas.
Disappointed Honda Owner
Vehicle
2005 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I bought a brand new 2005 Honda CRV EX Auto AWD after I had a Ford Expedition that constantly broke down. Wanted a reliable car, Unfortunately it hasn't been so great with 53,000 it is broken once again. Lived in all climates from humid in Georgia, snow in Maine and dry heat in California. My 93 Oldsmobile runs better, gets better gas mileage, and is more reliable. I had to replace tires, O2 switch, rotors, and now AC has called it quits. I do the oil changes and maint. on time yet it is sluggish, won't do hills and vinyl on the doors has ripped because back seat not wide enough for three car seats. Disgusted and disappointed in Honda. Dealer doesn't even carry the stock tires! That stinks.
Favorite Features
6 disk CD player, two outlets, reclining back seats.
Suggested Improvements
TIRES! AC system, ENGINE POWER!, GAS MILEAGE, sad that Honda has such a poor gas mileage car. Can't wait to get rid of it.
Happy to own one
Vehicle
2005 Honda CR-V EX AWD 4dr SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M)
Review
We (wife & I, no kids) purchased this due to our frequent outdoors trips. Shortly after purchasing, we drove in a blizzard and on icy roads for 2.5 weeks. The AWD worked great during the storms and icy conditions. After the blizzards, we loaded a small (4x8) trailer on the back with our belongings and drove 1,300 miles along the western coast, then through the deserts into CO. We drove though the Rockies and in snow often, eventually driving another 1,200 miles with another 4x8 trailer to the south eastern US. We've spend a LOT of hours in this vehicle and used it to drag a trailer across the entire US. OR to CO to AL. Love the vehicle, no complaints at all.
Favorite Features
AWD, center console, style, MPG, the engine.
Suggested Improvements
A standard stereo input jack.
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