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You don’t need a brand-new Honda CR-V to be happy, but we understand the appeal. You can actually save thousands with a used Honda CR-V model. Best of all, the savings don’t stop after the initial purchase because this is one reliable SUV. 

Updated on 06/07/2023 for freshness

Used Honda CR-V models are affordable

Are used Honda CR-V models reliable?
2022 Honda CR-V | Honda

We have to highlight the advantages of buying a used Honda CR-V model because the savings can add up for years. According to Zutobi, the Honda CR-V is one of the cheapest SUV models to run in the United States. 

The total cost of gas and insurance for the CR-V comes to about $5,539 per year. The cheapest car to run is the Honda Fit, which comes at $5,003. So, it only costs about $536 more for a larger vehicle with all-wheel drive. 

This study is based on the AWD CR-V models equipped with the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. It gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and up to 34 mpg on the highway, which is excellent. 

Plus, this engine is no slouch. It helps the CR-V accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 8.1 seconds, which is more than rough power for your daily commute. Also, the Honda CR-V has responsive handling and excellent cornering skills. 

But the 2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to crank out 212 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. It gets an EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and up to 35 mpg on the highway.

How reliable is the Honda CR-V? 

You should be able to find a reliable used Honda CR-V model pretty easily. The CR-V is one of the most reliable SUV options available. According to J.D. Power, it has an above-average reliability score of 84 out of 100. The Honda CR-V Hybrid has the same rating.

The average used CR-V model is expected to make it between 250,000 to 300,000 miles on the road. If you drive an average of 15,000 miles per year, then this comes to about 15 to 20 years of service on the road. 

A CR-V is considered to be high-milage after it passes the 100,000 mark. However, taking care of your CR-V is the key to longevity. Be sure to provide proper maintenance and regular care. Also, don’t purchase a used CR-V until you review its history. 

Also, the CR-V has a pretty low maintenance cost. It costs an average of $407 to maintain the CR-V annually. This is great compared to the price of $657 to sustain an average vehicle each year. 

The Honda Hybrid warranty covers eight years or 100,000 miles. It protects the hybrid powertrain and battery against corrosion and range loss. Paint issues such as rust are not included. It can last between 10 to 15 years and ay cost $2,000 to $8,000 to replace.

What are the best-used CR-V model years? 

used Honda CR-V models are affordable
2022 Honda CR-V | Honda

The best used Honda CR-V model years come from the previous generation. The fifth CR-V generation spans from 2017 to 2023. This is when the reliable 1.5-liter engine, but some models feature the older 2.4-liter engine with 185 hp. 

On an interesting note, even though the CR-V is in its 6th generation, the CR-V Hybrid didn’t debut until 2019. It came out during the fifth generation and was carried over into the current generation.

Option for a model from 2017 to 2020 provides access to a more modern layout and more advanced tech features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also, the latest safety features are available. 

You can save even more by purchasing a used Honda CR-V model from the fourth generation, which spans from 2012 to 2016. However, the 2013 and 2016 CR-V models are considered to be the most reliable options from that generation. 

The fourth generation provides Bluetooth connectivity for phones and a standard backup camera, so it’s not too outdated. 

Do your research to easily find a used Honda CR-V model that fits in your budget. It has a low cost of maintenance and is one of the most affordable SUVs to run.