You know those rather arty movie shots where the main character is largely static, in sharp focus, while everything all around is a blur? That’s the Honda CR-V.
While the world has lost its marbles and proceeds through life at breakneck speed, the fifth-generation CR-V is pretty much the same calm, family-oriented car as the original vehicle of 1995 – albeit without the shower attachment that was an option on the initial model. So, al fresco bathing notwithstanding, how does it stack up? We know the best used cars for towing a caravan offer practicality, reliability and a good price – does the Honda?
What’s a used Honda CR-V like inside?
If a well-planned interior is an important factor when you’re choosing a used tow car, you’ll be pleased to hear it’s one of the major highlights of this generation of CR-V. For a start, getting into and out of the cabin is a real doddle, because all of the doors open extremely wide – indeed, the rear doors reach almost 90 degrees, which makes it so much easier to manoeuvre small children or less flexible older relatives into and out of the seats at the back.
There’s a vast amount of headroom and legroom, too, while those up front will feel similarly spoiled. Better still, the range of adjustment for both the driver’s seat and the steering wheel is excellent.
In addition, the boot is massive, giving you plenty of room for all of your essential caravan accessories. Folding down the rear seats requires just the tug of a lever at either side of the boot. The seats lie almost flat when folded.
The CR-V isn’t for you if need seven seats, but if five will do, there are few bigger or more comfortable cars around.
It’s well equipped, with even entry-level models featuring LED headlights, lane-keep assistance, adaptive cruise control and electrically adjustable lumbar support for the driver. Moving up the range brings you Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with parking sensors fore and aft. Go even higher and you can have heated leather seats, a powered boot lid and a sunroof. Don’t forget to add in one of the best caravan sat navs and you’ll be all set for an enjoyable drive to the campsite.
How does a used Honda CR-V drive?
Early in the life of this generation, a 1.6-litre diesel was available, which was reasonably strong and comparatively economical. If you do a lot of miles, this is the one.
However, diesel was ditched when the car was facelifted in 2019, so thereafter your choice is a 1.5-litre petrol with either 171bhp (linked to a manual gearbox) or 190bhp (paired with a CVT automatic), or a 2.0-litre hybrid with 181bhp.
But the hybrid model’s towing capacity makes it unusable for caravanners.
The 1.5 petrol has power, but torque is where it falls down, so accelerating with a van in tow can be a lethargic process, which usually requires a change down. This also makes it tricky to pull away on a hill without spinning the wheels, which means we’d recommend a four-wheel drive.
Once up to speed, the CR-V is stable and comfortable, but side winds can upset it, especially when overtaking large vehicles. As ever, make sure you’ve got a sensible car/caravan match.
Verdict
The CR-V does the job without fuss, but does so unexceptionally. Yes, it’s large and comfortable, but the petrol engine struggles when towing. That’s why an early diesel version makes the better bet.
After buying your towing vehicle, you’re likely to want to do all you can to protect it – having a good steering wheel lock can play a part here.
Honda CR-V essentials
What will a Honda CR-V tow?
- Kerbweight: 1793kg
- Towing limit: 2000kg
- Noseweight limit: 100kg
- 85% match: 1524kg
What to pay
- High: price: £26,000; model: 2022 1.5 VTEC Turbo EX CVT; miles: 13,500
- Sweet spot: price: £15,700; model: 2018 1.6 iDTEC SE Plus; miles: 27,500
- Low: price: £7500; model: 2017 1.6 iDTEC SR; miles: 133,000
Running costs
- Insurance group: 24
- Annual VED: £190
- Average economy: 55.4mpg
- Interim/full service: £183
Servicing prices supplied by Servicing Stop, 0844 324 5262,
Trouble spots
Early CR-V models were recalled because of a fuel pump that had been manufactured incorrectly. Almost 150,000 examples were affected by this problem.
Then 50,823 cars were recalled because emissions regulations hadn’t been met. After that, 42,435 cars were recalled because dampness could get into the driver’s airbag propellant, which risked delaying its deployment in the event of a crash.
A full list of recalls can be found at check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk.
Alternatives to consider
Used Peugeot 5008 (2017-)
Peugeot has rediscovered its mojo in the past decade or so, and cars like the 5008 are proof. Where its predecessor was a bland MPV, this version is a funky seven-seat SUV, with a stylish dash and good economy. But bear in mind that its towing limit is a bit lower than rivals’, and the soft suspension allows any trailer to move around a little in side winds.
Used Škoda Kodiaq (2017-24)
As competition goes, the big Škoda provides some of the stiffest for the CR-V. It offers loads of cabin space for five, but bests the Honda by also having two more seats in the boot. They’re designed for kids, but fine for adults on short trips. And when they’re not in use, the boot is huge. The Kodiaq also offers good value for money.
Used Volkswagen Tiguan (2016-2024)
The second-generation Tiguan is a very capable tow car. Strong residuals mean you’ll pay a bit more for it than for some rivals, but this will pay you back when it’s time to sell. It will also feel pretty good while you own it, because it is classy and well equipped. The Tiguan is unflappable when towing, even on a windy day, and never gets upset on bumpy roads.
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