Japanese cars are very popular in Russia, both in the western and eastern regions. One of the most popular brands is Honda. These cars have established themselves as reliable and comfortable, and therefore they are in high demand. One of the most popular cars of this brand is the CR-V crossover. It is produced in several generations. This article discusses the very first - Honda CR-V RD1. Review, specifications and reviews - later in the article.
Description
"Honda CR-V" is a compact Japanese-made. Serially the first generation was produced in the period from 1995 to 2001. The abbreviation CR-V stands for Compact Recreational Vehicle. Versions for the American market have been produced since 1997.
Appearance
The design is made in the corporate style of Honda. In front - recognizable rounded headlights and a neat black grille. The bumper on budget trim levels was not painted in body color, the same applies to side mirrors. In addition, there are plastic moldings on the doors, and massive roof rails on the roof. The roof of the crossover is almost flat. The car itself looks modest, but does not seem like an ancient dinosaur in the stream.
Tuning a Honda CR-V RD1 is rare. Usually, owners are limited to installing kenguryatnikov and tinting windows. Sometimes other wheels and mud tires are installed on the car.
body problems
What problems do Honda CR-V RD1 owners face during operation? It is generally accepted that Japanese cars are well protected from corrosion, but the years take their toll, so there are often pockets of corrosion on the body of the Honda. If the previous owner did not take care of the car, it is even possible for through rust to appear.
Usually corrosion appears on the arches and sills. But rust also shows through under the plastic sills that are in the cabin. When buying, you need to pay attention to the glass. If non-original ones (three or more) are installed, most likely it is a flip machine. Washers should also work. They are provided for the windshield and rear window (sometimes on the headlights). If they do not work, then the motor has become unusable.
The quality of the paintwork is average. Very often you can find a "Honda" with chips. Therefore, it is difficult to find a copy in the original paint. If it is, then with numerous defects on the paintwork.
Honda CR-V RD1: dimensions, ground clearance
An interesting fact: this crossover was sold only in dealerships in Japan, because due to its dimensions it exceeded the legal norms and was positioned as a premium class. So, the total length of the car is 4.47 meters, width - 1.75, height - 1.68. Wheelbase length - 2.62 meters. At the same time, the ground clearance is 20.5 centimeters on standard wheels. Curb weight - 1370 kilograms.
What do the reviews say about this car? Owners note good ground clearance. With it, you can confidently move both on snow-covered roads and on dirt roads. At the same time, the car is quite spacious and roomy. In winter, four-wheel drive saves a lot.
Salon
As noted earlier, there is enough space in the car. The driver and passengers will not lack space, despite the fact that this is a compact crossover.
Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the modest design. There is no leather and wood inserts. Salon - fabric and mostly gray. The quality of the plastic is not the best. It is tough and rattles on bumps. Nevertheless, it is worth noting the good ergonomics. Behind the wheel you can comfortably accommodate. The steering wheel is four-spoke, without buttons. But the "steering wheel" is very thin.
The center console has a cassette player and stove knobs.
Remarkably, on versions with automatic transmission, the lever was at the helm, as on American cars of those years. This made it possible to expand the space.
The floor is flat inside. And due to the fact that there is no familiar "beard", you can easily move around the cabin.
Among other advantages - wear-resistant materials. After 200 thousand kilometers, the seats do not wipe, as on other cars, and the plastic looks good, especially after polishing.
What should be checked before buying?
If we talk about the cabin, there you need to check all the buttons of the electric drives. Sore spots are the power windows and the rear wiper. When it rains, water can enter the passenger compartment (in the area of the windshield). You should check that the trunk opens with the button. In the Honda, the harness can be frayed in connection with the door. You also need to check that the door locks open and close normally with an alarm.
What else do you need to check before buying? In the reviews, it is advised to look at the condition of the throttle by removing the air pipe. If there is a lot of oil, then the engine will soon require serious repairs. It is also recommended to inspect the motor for oil smudges. If they are, then the previous owner did not follow the car.
Specifications
Since the Americans did not recognize diesel engines (namely, Honda was mainly supplied to the American market), only gasoline units are present in the line. Initially, the crossover was equipped with a two-liter four-cylinder engine with 128 horsepower. This is a simple aspirated with distributed injection, but with two camshafts and a 16-valve head. For this motor, a non-alternative four-speed automatic transmission was offered. With her, the car did not have the best dynamics.
So, acceleration to hundreds took about 12.5 seconds. The maximum speed is 170 kilometers per hour. In 1998 the situation changed a little. This motor was replaced with a more powerful one, 147 hp. At the same time, the engine volume remained the same - two liters. Also in 98, a five-speed manual box appeared. With her, the car drove more cheerfully. Acceleration to hundreds takes 10.5 seconds. The maximum speed is 177 kilometers per hour.
Automatic transmission Honda CR-V RD1
A lot of complaints about the automatic transmission. Most crossovers have problems with automatic transmission. Its resource is no more than 250 thousand kilometers with proper maintenance. How to check it? You should switch the selector for each mode. If there are kicks, the box needs repair. You should also check if kickdown is enabled from fourth gear. If not, the cable is set incorrectly in the box.
Since there are frequent problems with the automatic transmission, many advise taking the Honda CR-V RD1 on the mechanics. This is the best box for an old crossover. It is rare to repair a Honda CR-V RD1 with a manual transmission.
Chassis
The car has a fully independent suspension. Brakes - disc front and drum rear. Things to check before buying:
Results
So, now it’s clear what the Honda CR-V RD1 is. Among the positive points it is worth noting:
- Low cost in the secondary market.
- Roomy and ergonomic interior.
- Reliable engine and manual transmission.
Among the disadvantages:
In general, this car will be a good purchase for a family. This machine is practical and undemanding to maintain. The Honda CR-V RD1 engine serves more than 400 thousand before overhaul. If you take the car on the mechanics, it will drive for a very long time, according to the reviews.
The car is quite well equipped for its time, especially with regard to various elements designed to provide proper comfort. The CR-V has a spacious, practical and well-designed cabin with comfortable seats, plenty of bins and storage pockets for various items, including a box under the front passenger seat. The second row of seats fold down to free up additional cargo space while creating a perfectly flat floor. The main difference in trim levels in terms of interior and exterior comes down to additional elements: woodgrain interior trim, leather-wrapped steering wheel, roof rails, fog lights, remote key, 15” alloy wheels. Since 1996, the car has acquired ABS, airbags, glazing with UV protection. Especially popular was the equipment with a satellite navigation system. As a result of restyling in 1998, the car has undergone minor changes aimed at improving the appearance and interior.
The first generation of this car was equipped according to the principle: 2-liter in-line 4-cylinder DOHC engine (130 hp) + 4WD + 4-speed automatic transmission. Somewhat later, a 5-speed manual gearbox was added. In addition, as a result of a series of changes in 1998, engine power increased by 20 hp, less expensive front-wheel drive variants of the CR-V began to be offered. As for the B20B engine, this is one of the most reliable engines of the company, thanks to which even the first copies of the right-hand drive Honda CR-V are still in service and are in good technical condition.
Unlike most station wagons with improved cross-country ability common in those years, the CR-V has a rather complex suspension. Double-link front and multi-link rear. Despite the fact that the main purpose of this car is still hard surfaces, it has a fairly decent clearance and a flat bottom, which contributes to cross-country ability: it can easily make a trip to nature. Disguised as a spare wheel cover, a folding picnic table has become an original feature of the model.
The safety of the driver and passengers is ensured by two airbags, reinforcement elements of the frame and doors. Separate versions assumed the presence of seat belt tensioners, TCS traction control system, exchange rate stabilization system (since 1998). The generation has repeatedly participated in crash tests according to the IIHS, NHTSA, Australian NCAP methods, where, depending on the complexity of the tests, they received ratings from “satisfactory” to “excellent”. It has become very popular in the USA, where there has long been a strict approach to assessing the safety of cars intended for the North American market.
Honda CR-V is a car that is practically devoid of any noticeable flaws, except for some nuances (for example, difficulties with towing a non-working car, lack of good sound insulation and sensitivity to strong side winds - the price for a high body). However, everything else is dominated by pluses: an adequate price for used cars, four-wheel drive, high efficiency, ease of maintenance, practical interior. In our country, the high popularity of the right-hand drive CR-V of the first generation largely ensured the success of the next generations of this model.
Honda CR-V is considered a fairly reliable car, especially if it very rarely goes off-road. Its design uses many components from other well-known models of the brand, such as Honda Civic and Honda Accord, which guarantees high technical stability. Those who plan to frequently operate the SUV on or off difficult road sections will be disappointed. The rear axle is connected by a hydraulic pump, which comes into operation with a long delay and transmits only a small part of the torque. Rarely, when the rear axle is able to provide real help on the roads. Another disadvantage is reliability. The coupling and pump are easy to overheat, and with frequent use they soon fail.
However, in general, the 1st generation Honda SRV all-wheel drive system is quite stable. However, problems after many years of operation are almost inevitable. Most often, there is play on the propeller shaft, in the front axle shafts, oil leaks from the rear axle may occur. The bridge can hum if no one has ever changed the oil in it before.
Loads relatively quickly disable the manual transmission. Starts to knock out transmissions or a rattle appears. Rigid operation eventually ends with wear on bearings and synchronizers. Against this background, versions with a gun look better. Although automatic transmissions are quite outdated and slow, but subject to regular oil changes, they are much more durable than manual transmissions. It is noteworthy that the gear selector in the Honda CR-V with an automatic is located on the steering column, as in American cars.
The geometric cross-country ability of the Honda SR-B allows a lot, but the main thing is not to overdo it. Suspension is strong, does not like bumps. She feels best when used on roads with a smooth hard surface. Original components are the most durable, but they are quite expensive, so owners are increasingly using cheap counterparts that wear out quite quickly. This is where the opinion about the crossover suspension comes from, as not the best element. Fortunately, as a rule, small parts, such as silent blocks and connectors, need to be replaced.
Problems with the chassis often arise due to overload, which is facilitated by a roomy body. After several years of such operation, the condition of the rear suspension begins to deteriorate. Springs and shock absorbers will need to be replaced.
Vibrations in the steering wheel are a typical nuisance that many Honda owners of that time faced, and not only the CR-V. The disease arose for many reasons, the detection of which, confirmation and elimination is not only difficult, but also expensive.
The first generation Honda CR-V gasoline engines earned a good reputation, especially the B20 series. They are very reliable and durable. The longevity of the motor depends entirely on the condition of the cooling system and valve clearance. Fan failure or radiator defects quickly affect the condition of the motor. Cheap analogues of the thermostat are short-lived. Unfortunately, many people forget about adjusting the valve clearance. In advanced cases, it may be necessary to repair the block head. Auxiliary equipment malfunctions and electronics failures are rare.
Most Honda SR-Bs are well equipped, but electrical equipment often fails. Mostly these are minor glitches. Most often, power windows suffer, and even then mainly due to the mechanical part.
The interior is assembled from good quality materials and looks good even on cars with a mileage of more than 300,000 km. The self-supporting body of the CR-V is rigid and well protected from corrosion. Corrosion appears in places hidden from view. Therefore, before buying, you must carefully check the condition of the supporting elements of the suspension, look under the seals and inspect the lower edges of the doors. Due to the spare wheel mounted on the tailgate, it has to be periodically adjusted.
Operating costs
Although the Honda CR-V can be purchased for relatively little money, operating costs are rated as above average in the class. Due to their age, many cars are already pretty worn out. Unfortunately, even with a small gasoline engine, the average fuel consumption will be at least 10 l / 100 km. From the point of view of the ratio of power to fuel consumption, a restyled modification with an engine of 147 hp is much more profitable, against a 128-horsepower version. 2-liter engines are practically the same structurally. The changes affected only the intake and exhaust system. The most voracious modification with a gun, but it is more comfortable to drive.
The biggest advantage of the Honda SR-B is the availability of spare parts. The market is very rich and there is no shortage of specialized shops and services. Original road parts. Analogues are cheaper, but it is better to purchase better quality substitutes.
Conclusion
When looking for a Honda CR-V, it is better to get a younger copy with a more powerful engine. Car prices depend more on condition than age. If possible, it is necessary to check whether the crossover was involved in serious accidents - the restoration of geometry is very problematic. It is better to avoid specimens that often travel off-road. Indirectly, numerous deformations, dirt and abrasions on the bottom, sills and elements of the exhaust system will tell you about this. Be sure to check the condition of the coupling for connecting the rear axle and differential. A hum in the rear axle area in motion indicates problems with the differential or multi-plate clutch. During the test drive, accelerate to at least 120 km/h to make sure there are no vibrations. If they are, then you must understand that their elimination will be difficult or even impossible. Recall that in the case of the first generation CR-V, vibrations are not always caused by unbalanced wheels or unevenly worn tires. Be careful.
The Honda CR-V is a five-seat small Japanese crossover that has been in such high demand that it has been produced since 1995 to this day. The SRV model has 5 generations.
History of the Honda CR-V
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The abbreviation "CR-V" in translation from English stands for "small recreational car." The production of this model is carried out in several countries at once:
- Japan;
- Great Britain;
- Mexico;
- Canada;
- China.
The Honda CR-V is a cross between a small HR-V and an imposing Pilot. The car is produced for most regions, including Russia, Canada, China, Europe, USA, Japan, Malaysia and so on.
The first version of Honda SRV
The first version of this car from Honda was presented as a concept back in 1995. It is worth noting that the SRV was the first-born in the line of crossovers, which was designed by Honda without outside help. Initially, it was sold exclusively in Japanese dealerships and was considered as a premium class, since, due to its dimensions, it exceeded the legally established standards. In 1996, a model for the North American market was unveiled at the Chicago Motor Show.
It should be noted that the first generation of this model was produced in only one configuration, called "LX" and was equipped with a gasoline in-line four-cylinder engine "B20B", with a volume of 2.0 liters and a maximum power of 126 hp. In fact, it was the same 1.8-liter internal combustion engine that was installed on the Honda Integra, but with some modifications, in the form of an expanded cylinder diameter (up to 84 mm) and a one-piece sleeve design.
The car body is a load-bearing structure reinforced with double wishbones. The signature style of the car is the plastic lining on the bumpers and fenders, as well as folding rear seats and a picnic table, which was located in the lower part of the trunk. Later, the release of the CR-V in the “EX” configuration was adjusted, which was equipped with an ABS system and alloy wheels. The car also had an all-wheel drive system (Real-Time AWD), but versions were also produced with a front-wheel drive layout.
Below is a table showing the main characteristics of the B20B engine, which was installed on the first version of the SRV and after the restyled B20Z power unit:
| ICE name | B20B | B20Z |
|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement, cc | 1972 | 1972 |
| Power, hp | 130 | 147 |
| Torque, N*m | 179 | 182 |
| Fuel | AI-92, AI-95 | AI-92, AI-95 |
| Profitability, l/100 km | 5,8 – 9,8 | 8,4 – 10 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 84 | 84 |
| Compression ratio | 9.5 | 9.6 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 89 | 89 |
In 1999, the first generation of this model was restyled. The only change in the updated version was an upgraded engine, which added a little more power and slightly increased torque. The motor acquired an increased compression ratio, the intake manifold was replaced, and the exhaust valve lift was also increased.
The second version of the Honda SRV
The next version of the SRV model became a little larger in overall dimensions and gained weight. In addition, the design of the car was completely changed, its platform was transferred to another Honda model - Civic, and a new K24A1 engine appeared. Despite the fact that in the North American version it had a power of 160 hp and 220 N * m of torque, its fuel-economic characteristics remained at the level of the previous power units. All this is implemented using the i-VTEC system. Below is a schematic representation of how it works: 
Due to the more thoughtful design of the rear suspension of the car, the trunk volume was increased to 2 thousand liters.
For reference! Authoritative publication Car and Driver in 2002-2003. named the Honda SRV as "Best Compact Crossover". The success of this car prompted Honda to release a more budget version of the Element crossover!
Restyling of this generation CR-V took place in 2005, which led to a change in the front and rear optics, the radiator grille and front bumper were updated. The most important innovations from a technical point of view are the electronic throttle, an automatic transmission (5 steps), a modified all-wheel drive system.
Below are all the power units that this model was equipped with:
| ICE name | K20A4 | K24A1 | N22A2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement, cc | 1998 | 2354 | 2204 |
| Power, hp | 150 | 160 | 140 |
| Torque, N*m | 192 | 232 | 340 |
| Fuel | AI-95 | AI-95, AI-98 | Diesel fuel |
| Profitability, l/100 km | 5,8 – 9,8 | 7.8-10 | 5.3 - 6.7 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 86 | 87 | 85 |
| Compression ratio | 9.8 | 10.5 | 16.7 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 86 | 99 | 97.1 |
The third version of the Honda SRV
The third generation CR-V was produced from 2007 to 2011 and differed in that the model became noticeably shorter, lower, but wider. In addition, the trunk lid began to open up. Among the changes, one can also note the lack of sound insulation and the presence of a through passage between the rows of seats.
This crossover in 2007 became the most popular in the American market, overtaking the Ford Explorer, which held the leading position for fifteen long years.
For reference! Due to the huge demand for the CR-V model, Honda even put the new Civic model on hold in order to use additional production capacity and satisfy the interest among buyers!
Restyling of the third generation of the SRV brought a number of design changes, including bumpers, grille, and lights. The engine power was increased (up to 180 hp) and at the same time fuel consumption decreased.
Below is a table of engines for this generation:
| ICE name | K20A4 | R20A2 | K24Z4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement, cc | 2354 | 1997 | 2354 |
| Power, hp | 160 - 206 | 150 | 166 |
| Torque, N*m | 232 | 192 | 220 |
| Fuel | AI-95, AI-98 | AI-95 | AI-95 |
| Profitability, l/100 km | 7.8 - 10 | 8.4 | 9.5 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 87 | 81 | 87 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 - 11 | 10.5 - 11 | 9.7 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 99 | 96.9 - 97 | 99 |
The fourth version of the Honda SRV
Production started in 2011 and this model was produced until 2016.
The car was characterized by a more powerful 185 hp power unit and a new all-wheel drive system. The restyling of the division was distinguished by a new version of the direct injection engine, as well as a continuously variable transmission. In addition, the CR-V has a much better handling thanks to new springs, anti-roll bars and dampers. This car was equipped with the following engines:
| ICE name | R20A | K24A |
|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement, cc | 1997 | 2354 |
| Power, hp | 150 - 156 | 160 - 206 |
| Torque, N*m | 193 | 232 |
| Fuel | AI-92, AI-95 | AI-95, AI-98 |
| Profitability, l/100 km | 6.9 - 8.2 | 7.8 - 10 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 81 | 87 |
| Compression ratio | 10.5 - 11 | 10.5 - 11 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 96.9 - 97 | 99 |
Fifth version of the Honda SRV
The debut took place in 2016, the car features a completely new platform borrowed from the X generation Honda Civic.
The line of power units is characterized by the fact that a special L15B7 turbocharged engine is produced for the American market, while versions with atmospheric gasoline engines are sold in Russia only.
| ICE name | R20A9 | K24W | L15B7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine displacement, cc | 1997 | 2356 | 1498 |
| Power, hp | 150 | 175 - 190 | 192 |
| Torque, N*m | 190 | 244 | 243 |
| Fuel | AI-92 | AI-92, AI-95 | AI-95 |
| Profitability, l/100 km | 7.9 | 7.9 - 8.6 | 7.8 - 10 |
| Cylinder diameter, mm | 81 | 87 | 73 |
| Compression ratio | 10.6 | 10.1 - 11.1 | 10.3 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 96.9 | 99.1 | 89.5 |
The choice of the power unit of the Honda SRV
The internal combustion engines that Honda SRV is equipped with of any generation are distinguished by good reliability and maintainability. The owners of these cars do not have any special problems in operation if timely maintenance is carried out and recommendations for the optimal choice of engine oil and filters are followed. 
For drivers who prefer a quiet ride, the naturally aspirated R20A9 gasoline engine, which has relatively low fuel consumption and good driving dynamics, is the most rational choice. However, he is the most popular in the Russian market.
And, actually, the first generation Honda CR-V.
After reading a lot of forums, I almost leaned in favor of the RAV 4. There is a permanent all-wheel drive, and an abundance of spare parts in stores.
The second was a Subaru Forester with a naturally aspirated engine and automatic. The car is pretty good, but very small ground clearance compared to opponents. Immediately discarded this option, although the car is very, very dynamic.
When I came to see Honda, I immediately noticed a huge salon, where you can easily move from the front to the rear seats, and vice versa. Another plus is ground clearance.
Exterior
The outside view of the car is a typical body of the first SUVs of the late 90s and early 2000s. The rather square shape has a positive effect on the internal volume of the cabin, so this is rather a plus.
Salon
Very big. The absence of a central tunnel and a rigid armrest between the front seats makes it possible to move freely around the cabin. It is worth noting the good transformation of the cabin, which makes the amount of luggage space just indecently large. They easily fit there: a span of scaffolding, a hood from a Honda Accord across the entire width, building materials, and so on. In general, for the useful space of the cabin, only 5.
The driver's seat has tilt and height adjustment. The rear sofa is divided in a ratio of 2/3 and also has an inclination of the backs. Generally comfortable. It is worth noting the large distance for the legs of the rear passengers - it is very sufficient. With my height of 182 cm, you can sit in the back without touching the back of the front seat.
Engine
The engine here is the good old B20Z about 150 horses. It is quite enough in the city and on the highway. Average consumption: highway 8.5 l, city - up to 13 l per 100 km. The engine is very simple and reliable, has no VTEC. Quietly passes 300-400 thousand km to the capital.
Box
This is rather a weak point of this car. She does not like fast starts and towing loads. Has only 4 gears. In general, it is quite reliable, but a little outdated.
Suspension
Purely Honda - harsh. But at the same time it holds the road just fine.
Its only drawback is multi-link. These are additional costs for parts. The front suspension on two wishbones with four ball joints is also quite expensive to maintain. But she gives the ride a pleasure.
Bottom line: I have owned the car for about six years. I have never regretted the purchase. For the money, this is an ideal - a real workhorse with a very comfortable and roomy interior.
