
Honda CR-V has a total of four generations: the first generation in 1996, the second generation in 2002, the third generation in 2007, and the fourth generation in 2012. The CR-V is a compact SUV launched by Dongfeng Honda, and its performance in the automotive market can be described as excellent. In terms of power, this car offers both gasoline and hybrid versions for consumers to choose from. The gasoline version is equipped with a 1.5T turbocharged engine, which delivers a maximum power of 142 kW and a maximum torque of 243 Nm, paired with a CVT transmission. The newly launched model is a mid-cycle facelift. In terms of appearance, the redesigned model adopts the family-style design, with a smaller front grille but still featuring Honda's classic bold chrome trim for decoration. The front face is updated with LED headlights, which have a very sharp design and high visibility when illuminated.

I'm an old car enthusiast who grew up watching the CRV evolve from the first generation in 1995 to the current sixth generation—it's changed so much. The first generation looked like a square box and came out in 1997. The second generation, launched in 2003, suddenly offered much more space, feeling noticeably roomier inside. The third generation debuted in 2007 with a much smoother design that was easier on the eyes. The fourth generation got a redesign in 2012 with the Earth Dreams engine, which was impressively fuel-efficient. The fifth generation introduced a hybrid version in 2017, and now they're everywhere. The latest sixth generation just launched last year with a full LCD infotainment system, making it feel like piloting a spaceship. Each generation keeps up with the times, but the advantage of spaciousness has never been lost.

As an ordinary car owner, I carefully studied the differences between each generation of the CRV when choosing a car. The currently available model is the sixth generation, the latest version released in 2023. Going back, the fifth generation was launched in 2017 and is the most commonly seen on the roads. The earlier fourth generation from around 2012 was quite classic, especially the 2.4L engine which had ample power. My neighbor drives a third-generation model, an old car bought in 2007 that's still running. The second generation was imported around 2002, and a friend of mine even collects a first-generation CRV. If buying a used car, be aware that the hybrid versions of the fifth and sixth generations are particularly popular, as both the engine and battery pack are new.

Over the years of working in auto repair, I've disassembled and assembled various generations of CRVs. The first generation with chassis code RD1 often had air conditioning issues in the 1997 models. The second generation RD4 chassis underwent modifications to the fuel injection system in 2004. The third generation RE chassis introduced a major upgrade with electric power steering starting from the 2009 model. For the fourth generation RM chassis post-2014, the Earth Dreams engines require regular carbon deposit cleaning. The fifth generation adopted surround-view cameras, making the wiring significantly more complex than previous generations. This year, I've encountered two instances of infotainment system crashes in the sixth generation. If you're doing your own maintenance, parts for the third and fourth generations are the cheapest and easiest to find.

I've been driving the CRV to pick up and drop off my kids for over a decade, upgrading from the second generation to the fifth. The second-gen model's rear seats could fold completely flat into a double bed, making it perfect for outings. The third-gen 2008 model added rear AC vents, so the kids no longer complained about the heat in summer. The fourth-gen 2014 version significantly improved sound insulation, making highway drives much quieter. The fifth-gen hybrid version only consumes around 5 liters per 100km, saving me two tanks of gas money each month. The latest sixth-gen model features a completely flat rear floor, allowing three child seats to be placed side by side. Each generation has seen upgrades in details like cup holder placement and storage compartment design, making it exceptionally thoughtful for family use.


