2004 Honda CR-V 2.0L 4x2 from Philippines

Summary:

I love it to bits! (banal but true)

Faults:

So far, nothing. Absolutely nothing.

General Comments:

The first thing I can say about the car is that it has a very conservative look. I honestly think Honda played it too safe and made a boring looking car.

Despite the no frill look of this car, the same cannot be said for what is underneath the bonnet. OR SO THEY SAY. The truth is, the car's so called "genius" i-VTEC engine feels sluggish in this car. It doesn't go as well as my old 12 year old Nissan Altima did. And the the fuel economy was about the same. What I do love about the CR-V's engine is also its downfall: the high revving engine. It feels smooth and good to drive. The truth is, I don't think its the go that annoys me, its the cruise. When you press the gas, it goes well enough really. But when you release the gas to keep a constant pace, the car slows down very quickly. I initially thought it was due to the drag forces or maybe the low range gear box. But our Nissan X-Trail doesn't suffer from the same problems despite the bulk or the low range gear box.

The interior is better than the X-Trail's though. Whereas the Nissan used too much cheap high gloss plastic, the CR-V at least tries to mask the cheap look of its plastics. The gear shift is well placed, easily in reach. The seats are nicely shaped and molded, but too hard. (can't recommend this car for old people) But the car is very fuel efficient for a SUV or a Crossover as it really is, and very practical.

The drive is good, if a bit slow. The gears shift smoothly and quietly, without the "thud" of my old Nissan Altima's pathetic gearbox. The suspensions are hard, giving this car a sharp and responsive handling. But despite hardness, still doesn't punish you too much at the bumps or pot holes.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 18th March, 2008

20th Mar 2008, 01:46

My 2004 CRV does not slow down immediately when releasing the accelerator. It coast easily and maintain its speed for at least half a kilometer. Touch your rims after a leisurely drive and see if it is very hot. If yes I suggest you check your brakes that could be dragging your car permanently.

2004 Honda CR-V from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Doubtful

Faults:

A/C compressor just exploded - will take 2 days to repair; I'm a bit disappointed that this happened so fast.

It started with a whistling noise followed by lots of "clinks" and "clonks".

Now I have to drive around in 35 degrees C Celsius for 2 weeks if not longer - thanks Honda.

I'm glad it didn't happen on the freeway, but 200 meters from my house!

General Comments:

Time will tell, but it's no longer on top of my reliability list.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 24th January, 2008

2004 Honda CR-V EX from North America

Summary:

Not as good as my 93 Accord

Faults:

AC failure at 1yr mark, 30,000 miles, and AC again at 3 yr, 110,000 miles. Some owners have had 3+ failures. Definite lemon when it comes to the AC compressor, clutch and associated components. Honda is handling this on a case by case basis, with some getting 100% coverage, some a percentage and some zero. No consistent formula.

General Comments:

Other than the AC, the vehicle is pretty solid.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 23rd October, 2007

2004 Honda CR-V Sport 2.4L from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Without doubt the best car I've ever bought

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

Without doubt the best car I've ever bought.

It is very comfortable, handles well, has a tiny turning circle compared with my wife's Integra and looks like a large car for carrying people and goods, rather than a tank - which some equivalents do.

It is an ideal compromise between a saloon and a utility, with great looks into the bargain.

Hondas have always suffered in the past from hard seats, but the CR-V has outgrown this and you can travel large distances with no bum fatigue at all.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th August, 2006

25th Aug 2007, 20:31

I have just clocked 100,000 kms in my 2004 Australian delivered CRV sport auto. We have been on some difficult tracks in the north of South Aust, and sandy tracks in the south, and have carried 2 adults and 3 kids + all gear, but mostly metro driving.

Have had no issues, but upgraded the rear suspension with some stiffer springs, makes a big difference when loaded and towing.

Economy is OK, 11L/100 metro, but we live in the hills, 9L/100 on highway fully loaded, can't complain about that.

Would recommend this vehicle if you want a flexible economical car, but are not looking for sports car handling.

The 2.4L engine develops a good spread of power, when above 4000rpm the Vtec kicks in and gives a surprising amount of acceleration.