2013 Honda CR-V Review
The Honda CR-V is medium sized crossover SUV that has long been regarded as a reliable and affordable family car. Though not as popular as its rivals such as the X-Trail and Vanguard, it packs a powerful punch in terms of performance, build quality, interior space and off-road capability. It underwent a major redesign in 2011 that emphasized on aerodynamic performance, modern aesthetics, a new 4WD system and fuel efficiency. It competes with the Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Vanguard, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5 and Toyota RAV-4.
Detailed Review
The Honda CR-V has been in production for 5 generations since 1995. the first generation known as the RD1 was in production from 1995 to 2001, the second generation known as the RD4 from 2001 to 2006, the third generation known as the RE3 from 2006 to 2011, the fourth generation known as the RM1 from 2011 to 2016 and the fifth generation known as the RW1 from 2016 to present.
Highlights
- Premium quality build
- Comfortable and spacious cabin
- Stylish and modern design
The 2013 Honda CR-V comes with 3 engine options: a 2.4 Litre K24A i-VTEC petrol engine, a 2.0 Litre R20A i-VTEC petrol engine and a 2.2 Litre i-DTEC turbodiesel engine offered in European models. These engines are linked to a choice of either 6-Speed Manual, a 5-speed automatic or a CVT and available in both 2WD and 4WD. If you want to know the right engine to buy for the Kenyan market, refer to the Honda CRV Buyer’s Guide
2013 Honda CR-V Grades
- Honda CR-V 20G –This is the base grade that comes with the 2.0L engine, CVT Transmission, 2WD, 17-Inch alloy rims, CD/Radio player, Keyless and manual seats
- Honda CR-V 24G –This is the premium grade that comes with the 2.4L engine, 5-Speed Automatic Transmission, 4WD, 17-Inch alloy rims, CD/Radio player, Keyless and optional automatic seats
2013 Honda CRV Interior
The interior is drastically different from previous generations. The dashboard and center console are now fully integrated unlike before where they were separate. The dashboard is supplied with modern LCD screens that display information such as fuel economy and audio settings. Though the overall body size is smaller than previous generations, the interior space is still unchanged and both rows are spacious and comfortable.
2013 Honda CRV Exterior
The exterior received a total makeover that transformed the CR-V into a sleek and modern looking SUV. All grades come with alloy rims and fog lights while higher grades are loaded with extras such as daytime running lights, chrome trimming and roof rails.
Storage Space
At the front, there are 2 cup holders, 2 bottle holders, door panel storage, a glovebox and a cubby box. For the second row, there is storage on the front seat pockets and door pockets.
2013 Honda CRV Boot Space
The boot space can hold a significant amount of luggage. It has an extra compartment under the floor and the back seats fold completely flat to open up the boot to more space.
Other Extras: DVD player, Navigation, Dual Zone Climate Control, Reverse Camera, Multi-function steering controls, Cruise Control and Multi-Display LCD.
Fuel Economy
The 2013 Honda CR-V has an Econ mode that dulls throttle response enhancing fuel economy. However, this slows down acceleration.
2013 Honda CR-V Fuel Consumption
2013 Honda CR-V 2.4L Petrol Fuel Consumption: 11.6 km/L (On Average)
2013 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol Fuel Consumption: 14.4 km/L (On Average)
2013 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel Fuel Consumption: 13.0 km/L (On Average)
Performance and Handling
The difference between the 20G and 24G in terms of performance is quite significant. Inasmuch as the 20G with the CVT transmission performs well, the 24G with the 5-Speed Automatic Transmission is dynamic and responsive and much more exciting to drive.
2013 Honda CR-V Acceleration
2013 Honda CR-V 2.4L Petrol accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.9 sec.
2013 Honda CR-V 2.0L Petrol accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 11.8 sec.
2013 Honda CR-V 2.2L Diesel accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 9.5 sec.
2013 Honda CR-V Fuel Tank Capacity: 58 Litres
Service Intervals
Minor Service – Done at 10,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil
Major Service – Done at 15,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil
Spare Parts Availability, Cost & Where to buy
A few years back, Honda spares parts were expensive and not easily available in Kenya. Things have significantly improved with the parts now being cheaper and easier to find. Service parts are readily available in major towns and comparable in price to those of its competitors. On the other hand, body parts such as headlights can be expensive and sometimes hard to find.
2013 Honda CR-V Reliability
For a detailed reliability analysis of the Honda CR-V, refer to the Honda CRV Buyer’s Guide
Resale Value: Average
Honda CR-V Competitors: Nissan X-Trail, Toyota Vanguard, Mitsubishi Outlander, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5 Toyota RAV4
Cost of Ownership
See Latest Honda CRV Prices
What We Like
- Modern design
- Spacious interior
- Good fuel economy
- Reliable
Conclusion
The 2013 Honda CR-V is one of the most reliable cars in the market today and it has minimal issues if it’s well maintained. The new design elevates it above its competitors and is universally appealing. Overall, the 2013 Honda CR-V is a highly rated car and a choice for many buyers looking for a reliable and safe family car.
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