2017 Honda CR-V: A Refined and Versatile Compact SUV
The 2017 Honda CR-V marked a significant redesign for the popular compact SUV, introducing a bolder exterior, a more premium interior, and a more engaging driving experience. It continued Honda's tradition of reliability and practicality while upping its ante in terms of technology and refinement, making it a compelling choice for families and individuals alike.
Highlights
- Engine and Performance: The 2017 CR-V offered a potent and efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine across all trims. This powerplant delivered a robust 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase over previous generations. It was paired exclusively with Honda's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which was retuned for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. This combination provided a surprisingly peppy feel for the class, making everyday driving and highway merging a breeze.
- Safety Features: Honda has always prioritized safety, and the 2017 CR-V was no exception. It was available with the Honda Sensing® suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies as standard on the EX and above trims (and optional on lower trims). Key features within Honda Sensing® included:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS): This system can help brake the vehicle if it detects a potential frontal collision and the driver doesn't take corrective action.
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): RDM can detect if you're drifting off a recognized roadway and can provide steering assistance to keep you on the path or brake to prevent you from leaving the road.
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): ACC maintains a set speed and automatically adjusts it to maintain a predetermined distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing the need for constant throttle and brake inputs on the highway.
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): LKAS can help return the vehicle to the center of the detected lane if it begins to drift.
- Blind Spot Information System (BSI): Standard on EX-L and Touring, BSI alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot.
- Trim Summary: The 2017 CR-V was offered in four well-equipped trims, each building upon the previous:
- LX: The foundational trim offered essential features like the turbocharged engine, a 5-inch color LCD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
- EX: Stepping up to the EX brought a wealth of desirable upgrades, including the Honda Sensing® suite as standard, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, push-button start, and heated front seats. This trim represented a fantastic balance of features and value.
- EX-L: The EX-L added a touch of luxury with leather-trimmed seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a power tailgate, enhancing both comfort and convenience.
- Touring: Topping the lineup, the Touring trim offered the most premium experience with features like LED headlights, a premium audio system, voice-activated navigation, and the Blind Spot Information System.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The redesigned CR-V boasted an impressively roomy cabin, particularly for rear-seat passengers, offering ample legroom and headroom. The cargo area was also generous, making it practical for hauling groceries, luggage, or gear.
- Improved Ride and Handling: Honda engineers significantly refined the CR-V's chassis and suspension for 2017, resulting in a more composed and engaging driving experience. Body roll was well-controlled, and the steering was responsive, making it a pleasant vehicle to drive on both city streets and winding roads.
- Modern Infotainment: The available 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration made connecting and using your smartphone seamless for navigation, music, and calls.
What to Expect
The typical ownership experience of a 2017 Honda CR-V is characterized by its dependability, practicality, and low cost of ownership. Honda vehicles are renowned for their long-term reliability, and the CR-V is a prime example.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is straightforward and generally inexpensive. Expect routine oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. Honda's maintenance minder system will alert you when service is due, typically recommending service every 7,500 to 10,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. Parts are readily available, and most dealers and independent mechanics are well-versed in servicing the CR-V.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2017 CR-V are typically competitive within the compact SUV segment. Factors such as your driving record, location, coverage levels, and the specific trim you choose will influence your premiums. However, due to its strong safety ratings and generally lower repair costs compared to some competitors, insurance is often considered reasonable.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 CR-V is an excellent vehicle, there are a few potential considerations buyers should be aware of:
- CVT Behavior: Although significantly improved, some drivers might find the CVT's tendency to hold engine RPMs during acceleration to be less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. While it's designed for efficiency, it can sometimes produce a "droning" sound under hard acceleration.
- Road Noise: While the 2017 CR-V made strides in interior refinement, some road noise can still be noticeable at highway speeds, particularly on coarser road surfaces. This is a common trait in this segment, but it's worth noting if you prioritize a whisper-quiet cabin.
- Base LX Trim Limitations: The LX trim, while affordable, lacks some of the desirable modern conveniences found on higher trims, such as the touchscreen infotainment system and the Honda Sensing® suite as standard. Buyers looking for these features would need to opt for at least the EX trim.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Honda CR-V stands out as a highly competent and well-rounded compact SUV. Its redesign brought a significant upgrade in performance, technology, and refinement, all while retaining the practicality and reliability that Honda is known for. With its spacious interior, comfortable ride, ample safety features, and efficient turbocharged engine, the 2017 CR-V is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and dependable daily driver that can comfortably handle family duty and everyday commutes. It remains a strong contender in the used SUV market for good reason.