Should You Buy a HONDA CRV? (Test Drive & Review 2012 MK4 2.0i)

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Today I'm in this 2012 Honda CR-V. Let's go.
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[@iamyourfather1877]

On March 19 I had a drunk driver hit me he was doing 92 on a 35 the crv save my life I didn't walk away without injuries but im alive thanks to the crv

[@megapangolin1093]

I am very much a car guy, and the engineering excellence, build quality, reliability and running costs are really important aspects of car ownership, to get a good car that does these things well is more meaningful than a souped up, thrashbucket with rockhard suspension that cant go any faster than you can in the CRV because of slow roads, speed limits and cameras everywhere and bumblers who stop you getting past them. A good car is a good car, like a good woman is a good woman... (Swiss Tony)...!!!!!!

[@willchen5470]

My dad have a 2007 CRV from new, 140,000 miles later and we’ve never had to worry about taking it to the garage apart from the service. Most reliable car my family has had.

[@samyadav006]

Totally agree! That car never disappoint us still love it till day!

[@johnlavery6116]

Had it for 3 years, then decided to change it...bad mistake....my wife has never forgiven me...Ireland.

[@deborahchesser7375]

My wife is on her 3rd CRV since 99’, she refuses to drive anything else and I don’t blame her. They are roomy, and absolute mountain goats in the snow and nasty stuff. I sound like a salesman but they really are damn good vehicles.

[@jaz4280]

Was it Diesel?

[@dmc12345678910]

Mine is awaiting a £1200 clutch and flywheel bill 😂

[@michaelscales5996]

Bought one 4 years ago and have no intention of trading it in.I have not had any problems whatsoever with it in that time.In 50 years of driving,this is the first car I have kept for more than 3 years. The only downside is it is a bit expensive I.e 260 pa to tax,and petrol version gives me 30mpg. However they hold their value, and are so reliable you aren't splashing out for breakdown repairs ,so taken all round it's not expensive. Your review is 100% accurate. Yes I am retired, run my grandkids and wife around and play golf twice a week !

[@HighPeakAutos]

Perfect!

[@billymcquade3865]

Bought a December 64 plate 2 wheel drive 1.6 litre diesel in June 2016 and still got it, great car, great mpg and 30 quid a year to tax.

[@dannycampbell6223]

I currently own a CRV on an 03 plate, had it since 2005, it’s in great condition, Honda returned it from service yesterday and proudly remarked it drives like a dream. The wife has promised it to our youngest, so I guess we’re in the market for a new CRV (yesss).

[@dagweedbumstead8865]

Personally I think Matt stands above motoring journalists as he reviews are more relevant to most people. He understands that the Nurburgring has little relevance to normal life. Also that Rock hard suspension and rubber band tyres are no fit for purpose due to state of our roads and ageing population. Keep up the good work mate! 💪

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@ldarm]

I agree.

[@DManThe12]

It's advice you can use when buying a car and that's great value to me

[@niemanickurwa]

@@HighPeakAutos Any chance you can do the RAV4 4th Gen mate?

[@beamboy07]

Matt watson better

[@vladimirsimonovic5234]

A really good matter-of-fact review. Nothing “pc” to worry about, just stating the obvious.

[@twfy861]

Just some “casual observations” by our Matt! 😂 the script / description is always on point 👌🏼 copy and paste for the Jazz too 😂

[@mallardc6049]

Purchased 2.2 Dtech 2 years ago after merc ML bled our bank dry... great family car for 5, utterly reliable, bullet proof build...not showy “look at us”...just gets on with the job of moving you down the road in comfort and safety... it’s a car that you can buy with your head and it then goes to work on winning your heart.

[@VPB1970]

Exactly! Spot on!

[@johnbateman3244]

I've got a 2.2Dtec 4 wheel drive auto also and bought it in 2011 when it was I year old. I still have it and because I used to run around in a van before I retired it's only done 63k now. The most expensive and only repair other than tyres and some brake pads was £475 inc vat to replace a split pipe on the rear of the engine that was leaking fumes. No other cost's in ten years plus of ownership. Why would I want to change this thing, it's hardly going to be stolen by joyriders because it has zero street cred.🤷🏼‍♂️ Probably the most boring, most reliable and unassuming car on the road and I love it.

[@bordersw1239]

My neighbour retired 3 years ago from a decent job , returned his company car and bought a 2008 CRV. It’s never let him down, looks like the original exhaust on it still, he loves the car.

[@samlancaster1277]

I have a 2013 executive model. Full Honda service history and owned since 2015. 120,000 miles now and to date totally reliable! An excellent all round car. Well done.

[@Levenspiels]

planning to sell it? :)

[@jeffallinson8089]

I am a MASSIVE car fan and I like the CRV a lot. All the good stuff you mentioned Matt is true; I like its looks and the fact that they are indeed dependable. Car fans don't just have to like the posh or exciting stuff.

[@jason5783]

I am an ex-mechanic and have 3x classic cars so defo a ‘car guy’. I bought the Mk4 CRV as it has plenty of room is refined and reliable. As a daily it’s perfect if you would rather be fixing classics than your daily.

[@bazmina]

Sometimes I feel Matt looks at his car lot, thinks what is the most boring dull and sensible person car I can find to review, and still somehow makes it so interesting we drop everything to dedicate 10 minutes or so to it as soon as the video drops. Genius.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Hahaha thank you. That is a compliment

[@geraldhornsby]

Not to mention immediately going on Autotrader to see what's available.

[@LizardYup]

I own a Honda civic 2006, 230,000 miles, clutch wearing out, still starts and drives every time. They are built like tanks, so reliable and hassle free

[@ruinunes8251]

I still own my 2001 civic mk6 with 141k mikes on the clock. Solid built, 2 cambelts changed over the years and an ac compressor also changed due to the abuse we give to the AC.

[@ColonelBobfed]

One of those modern SUVs that I can't find reason to hate, because it suits its role so well!

[@HighPeakAutos]

That’s right

[@05gt99]

I’ve did 50k miles in my mark 3 diesel ctdi EX over 3 years (before lockdown). It has been totally reliable, now at 110k miles. Great cars.

[@stevec.2702]

I owned a 2015 CRV se petrol manual (4wd) for 5 years. It had the 5 year free service pack included. Loved it. Only changed because I wanted an auto. Wanted another CR-V hybrid but the Toyota RAV. 4 won with better finance. I would have another CR-V Without hesitation. But only the petrol 2L. The 1.5L turbo has a few well documented issues with its engine. The honda was still on its original tyres when I PX,d it against the RAV. 23000 miles out of them and still plenty tread left. Impressed with that for a 4wd model. Yes I do fit your user overview. Retired, old, careful with the cash. Surprisingly not a resident of Yorkshire.

[@Therollingpanda]

You might as well link autotrader adverts in the description for cars you review, since I look after every video you post 😂

[@jamalet-taheri9877]

I had 2007 Mercedes 220 cdi just sold 4 weeks ago because of ulez Never had a problem took it 3 times to france and spain twice to Morocco I watched your vlog about 10 times then I decided to buy the crv petrol ,automatic 2 L With 43000 mile s on the clock Love it Thank you so much and happy New year 👍👍👍👍

[@andrewmayo608]

I bought the petrol 2litre back in august from my local Honda dealer,traded in my Volvo XC90. Having owned it for 5months and watched your review which by the way was Spot on the mark.yes i'm a retired 59yr old who plays golf🤣.I would add that the cruise control system is disapointly slow to react and I find the 2.0litre Petrol underpowered.....another 200 or 300cc would make a difference I guess. Overall its exactly as you describe it.not boring not exciting just a cr-v but you know its going to be reliable and that does it for me.i've done a few long trips in it since owning and I have total confidence that its going to cruise along no problem and it has. Enjoy watching your reviews which are very honest and objectively presented.Keep up the great work really useful clips👍.All the best.

[@niemanickurwa]

You didn't like the XC90? I always loved those, but are a little pricey and a lot large.

[@colinmclean2523]

I have a 2011 (the earlier model) 2.2 diesel automatic, now done 130,000 miles.Virtually faultless. When I bought it, my wife said it was like driving a sofa - she's right. I use it as my work car (freelance photographer) because it can carry tons of kit, drive long distances comfortably and go anywhere (mine is a 4WD automatic) on any kind of road or country/forest track. It's real saving grace, and the thing that made me really appreciate it, was buying a Mazda MX5 to have fun in. Now I can relax in the CRV, which is lots of things, but sports car isn't one of them.

[@stephenburley4332]

Even as a car fan I find reliability incredibly appealing, especially as I get older. I have a Mitsubishi Grandis GDI that threw a belt and overheated for 12 miles on the motorway (it was chucking it down and very busy so I wasn't stopping unless forced too). New belt and coolant fitted by RAC at services and it's still going strong 3 years later. They were amazed it even restarted, but stated in 15 years it was first one they'd been called out to.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Some of those old mitsubishi engines are non-interference engines so if the cambelt snaps, it doesnt do any damage. They should all be made like that

[@TheRealEstateExperiance]

This is the best car review video I have ever watched! 🤩 And I’ve watched a lot of car review videos. From beginning to end, everything I wanted to know, everything I wanted to see about this SUV and in a tone that was perfect and none distracting. In fact, you took my mind through different perspectives, just with the way you laid out the information. Perspectives that I hadn’t considered or that I had considered but hadn’t given much value to until you framed it the way you did! I am definitely a car girl who is not looking forward to owning a sexy van lmao but as a work car, I am now certain that this will be a great SUV! Thank You

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you for watching

[@PaulieMD5]

It's always refreshing to hear a non-pc commentary these days

[@HighPeakAutos]

Always

[@megapangolin1093]

@@HighPeakAutos We need more non PC, keeps us sane...

[@Preppyxxgirls25]

I’ve got a 2009 auto CRV, and your right it’s a very reliable vehicle! In 8 years of ownership I’ve had no issues. Only downside mpg is low but that’s expected. I think the 4th Gen “Black Edition” looks sporty and I may upgrade to it eventually!

[@samyadav006]

Yup! Just the mileage is the problem. I use to have two 3rd gen CRVs currently using the ‘10 it’s reliable and good

[@charlesmorgan8440]

I am a petrolhead and thoroughly enjoy my Mk1 CRV. Lovely revvy twin cam four, low gearing to enable it to move off with ease, not great fuel economy (perhaps if I revved it less) and very comfortable. I did a trip of 380 miles recently, got out the other end as fresh as a daisy. As I don't suffer from any interest in tech, its absence was no issue. At 20 years old and 174,000 miles on the clock, I reckon if I keep an eye on the bodywork, it's got the same again in miles to go. This one is a bit big, but it looks a bit more comfy, but hey, my air con is ice cold. Oh, and it works nicely on beaten up tracks and wet verges. The more I drive it, the more respect I have for it. It replaced my M140i...

[@HighPeakAutos]

I had a MK1 a couple of years ago when I was doing my house up. Perfect for tip runs etc

[@JohnDoe-ef4fm]

Funny, Honda CR-V is the car which made me interested in cars. I started a family and the Ford Fiesta became too small and unsafe. I googled best family cars and CR-V started popping up everywhere. Being a software developer, I do extensive research before making an important purchase like this. Fast forward 3 years, I am an "expert" in 4WD/AWD systems, safety systems, infotainment systems, child seats, boot practicality, engines... Range Rovers became my favourite cars, which is why KZbin's algorithm brought me to your channel 2 years ago, and here I am now.

[@Patient_Lion_BS]

What a story

[@DiscoFang]

An expert like all the other blokes who have access to the internet and comment on YT vids. It's an exclusive club.

[@fastasfox]

" Honda CRV is the car which made me interested in cars" now that is an original comment Sir 😀

[@JohnDoe-ef4fm]

@@DiscoFang forgot to put "expert" in quotations :)

[@DiscoFang]

@@JohnDoe-ef4fm Did I? Did you?

[@jimandali0]

One of my top cars I have driven (1.6 diesel), it’s as roomy as a large estate, and as economical as a small hatchback, but it still has enough poke when you need it. I got it to support my son going dragon boating around the country with 2 teammates. All their gear and paddles, no problem, still got 60mpg on the motorways, and they loved the reclining back seats after a hard weekend training or racing. I had the SE model and it had all I needed to make it a very enjoyable drive. Never let me down and tyres are cheap, and I got an independent service plan, saved over £300 over 3 years inc MOT. Top, top car, and love the wing mirrors that fold in, so you know that it’s locked and less chance if some donkey hitting them.

[@bitesizerallying9454]

Enjoyed the video as always, but there are car people who love CR-V's - as a car person and a CR-V owner I fall into that category! Having owned mine for over 5 years, longest I've ever kept a car, build quality spot on and I quite enjoy hustling it along, it's a slow in fast out car!

[@dustmeistermiller1011]

Great review, mate. Got the previous ‘facelift’ model (10 plate petrol manual) which I meant to keep for a year. That was 6 years ago and I’ve still got it. Getting a lifetime average of 36.8 mpg, it’s comfy, quiet, practical and quite simply never goes wrong. And as a retired (right again, Matt!) Leading Fireman I can tell you I never had to cut anybody out of one, unlike just about any and every French car.

[@ruinunes8251]

I think "Getting a lifetime average of 36.8 mpg" is pretty good for such a big car. Many people brag about the mpg they get in

[@neilcussons4744]

You've miscalculated there you are never getting that mpg in a month of Sundays out of a 2.0 petrol.

[@bonhoff67]

When I bought my XF, I gave my mk3 crv to my wife and she loves it. We've had it 6 years, it's done 155k and it's one of the easiest cars to service at home. Great old bus 👍

[@nicola6323]

How's the XF? 😎

[@bonhoff67]

@@nicola6323 had it over 2 years. Love it

[@markullyett]

Next time i change my car i will def check out your stock. I admire your honesty and enjoy your reviews

[@The_Original_Geoff_B]

If I was still living in Manchester I'd definitely be paying a visit :)

[@myworkfromhomegold]

Hi Matt...Yep...your bang on with your comments on this CRV as we bought it and been out and about in it today. The usual suspects, Castleton etc. It is built for more comfort than speed, but then so are we....but all those extras! Fabulous! Just wanted to say thanks to yourself,Steve and the High Peak team for making this car purchase go so smoothly and the excellent trade in I received for our old car.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks Phil! I appreciate the business. Glad to hear youre enjoying it. Think I saw you at one point today in Marple

[@MrEMrC]

My wife has a two wheel drive diesel version, the economy is great and the space is superb. It cruises happily at 70 and rolls brilliantly, with what seems minimal friction anywhere. It treads lightly and the little diesel engine is both willing and accommodating. Add the £30 a year tax and common sense in design and you can see why it is so popular.

[@dr.leftfield9566]

Another no bullshit review and to quote Matt it's nice to know Honda's marketing people didn't storm off in a teenager style huff and the CRV doesn't leak like an excited puppy. Good cars hands down. Nor is it a crime to suggest this is a car that would be ideal for the older person because it clearly is. Keep goin' and we'll keep watchin'.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you!

[@SteveSmith-cc9jn]

Totally agree with your review, we have the EX version only 2.2 manual. I call the car beige, it's not exciting, doesn't offend anyone and just fulfills a purpose. You buy a CRV with your head not your heart. Love your reviews.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks!

[@SuperMauricem]

Living in London the one thing not mentioned is the attack on these cars from thieves nicking catalytic converters- apart from that this review is spot on.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I prefer to think that doesn’t happen. I hate it. It’s on the rise too. I’ve had it happen to me a couple of times

[@connorlumsden3950]

Doesn't happen on the mk4's it's the mk1's and 2's.

[@salehsaad6851]

I love the way you review cars. It's straight to the point and detailed

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks

[@AlasdairMacgillivray]

Our 05 2.2 ex diesel just failed its mot & was scrapped. Its the longest & oldest car we ever had & we loved it. It had passed its mot every year without any major dramas & was so reliable. The power steering went & there was to much corrosion underneath, but she still started & drove. We are getting a new crv tomorrow, the same model just newer. I can't recommend the crv enough a great car.

[@jamiecampbell5905]

You always do a no nonsense car reviews and that's why I always watch your reviews

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks

[@Levenspiels]

I was between several cars. After reading/watching lots of stuff, I just bought a mk IV CR-V, today, very similar to the one in this video, which was the best and most useful review among all I've seen. thank you mate.

[@Raprada]

Your comments about significant others and the elderly are completely fine. There are many people who consider cars as a mere appliance to help them haul stuff and go around places and that’s okay.

[@MihaiHudea]

bought a 4year old 2.2 i-dtec EX 2014 model 4 years ago, only changed the disk clutch. very reliable and great choice for a family with 2kids.

[@sshnrub]

My sister just bought one. She’s not a bar person. She’s a child minder. She’s made no comment on it, so that’ll mean it’s doing just perfect 😄

[@alchapman1052]

Good solid Honda whether motor bike or car ,you can't really go wrong. Good review as ever.

[@jovialgent9963]

"I bet Tiger Woods couldn't crash this car!" 😆

[@HighPeakAutos]

I'm sure he'd give it his best shot

[@lincolnengland5005]

I actually scoffed out loud at that one......

[@Irishesbox11]

George Michael in his prime would definitely write one off.

[@_stoatchaser]

Anyone when pissed could crash any car so I’ve been told allegedly

[@ruinunes8251]

@@_stoatchaser That advice was spot on.

[@kamrulhussain6317]

A Honda review, nice! Love German cars but seeing more Japanese vehicles on this channel is much appreciated.

[@danr1920]

Never own a German car out of warrantee,

[@135Ops]

@@danr1920 Never a truer word spoken!

[@williamwilson9495]

I’m still on the Mk 2 had it from 2008 and never really had any trouble with it,it is still on the original clutch and exhaust,160.00 miles and only need to replace a rear spring for the mot.The most reliable car I’ve had even better than my Audi Coupe and Sport models.Like you say these Hondas are more suited to the older generations where realiability and running costs become more prevalent

[@steveegginton535]

My sister had a Mk2 CRV and loved it and she is not a car person! Can't argue that it is a very competent, capable car and your review was well balanced. Whilst we petrol heads might find it strange but there are people out there who would be very satisfied with a CRV and would want nothing more from a car !

[@v.3779]

I used to have an earlier model - great auto, and saved me quite a few quid for using it as one of those big yellow storage places 😄

[@aadi8568]

I have a 2011 CRV (2.2L Diesel) and it has been very very reliable, it currently has 180k miles on it and no issues so far

[@phil8437]

Spot on review thanks. If you are spending your own hard earned, Japanese brands (apart from Nissan/Renault group) are hard to beat for reliability, design and overall convenience. I think that German brands may be better finished and French or Italian brands may be more stylish. But if you are spending your own cash then Toyota and Lexus, Suzuki, Honda and Mazda are hard to beat. Subaru are reliable but engines are expensive to service and Mitsubishi are a bit of a mixed bag. I have a Suzuki Vitara, Suzuki Cappuccino and Suzuki 125 Van Van motorcycle and am very impressed with reliability and performance of all of them.

[@ronjohnson3177]

Two words BULLET PROOF never had a single problem with my Honda in 63k miles.

[@daveblack5109]

A few years ago I paid £1900 (after haggling) for a 2008 CR-V because my 86 year old mum could get in and out of it easily. it's a 'ship of the line' 2.2 diesel with all the toys and I have to agree with every word you said in this review. Even the voice command works.. I've also used the thing like a van and now got to 167000 miles. it is just such an easy thing to use. I still prefer my jaguar though!

[@gap9992]

I'm retired and bought one for all the reasons covered perfectly in this review! I really like it except for the performance of the 2.0i petrol auto which is very sluggish indeed! (It was probably too big a jump down from the BMW 540i tourer it replaced! lol.) Honda could easily have stuck a low boost turbo on it and it would be brilliant When you see older CRVs on the road they are always in good condition which is probably a mix of build quality and who tends to own them! I've got the facelift version of the one in the review but the "IT" is still a bolted together mess but you get used to it. It's bigger than it looks and the high squareish load area is better than most. Very sensible and practical !!

[@ziadmutasim1235]

I have a 2013 Honda CRV and unfortunately I’m into cars so your review is spot on.

[@phils866]

I own a 2014 2.2 diesel 4x4 manual, and it's the best car I've yet owned. It has been utterly reliable and, with the gutsy 2.2 diesel, offers punchy acceleration, which doesn't tail off suddenly, as with VW group diesels.. In fact, when you engage 5th or 6th gear, it seems to get a second wind, and pulls like a train, resulting in effortless overtaking, without the need to change down. Like you say, it is comfortable, although the damping could be a tad tighter, has loads of head, leg and shoulder room both front and back, and has a large, practical boot. I recently looked around at the competition, and came to the conclusion there is nothing out there I would rather have. The CRV may not shine in any particluar department, but it does everything well, and that suits me fine. Incidentally, you mention the dipping passenger's door mirror when selecting reverse. This can be cancelled by sliding the door mirror select button to its middle position. Sliding it to the left (to adjust the left door mirror) activates the dipping feature...simple, practical and highly useful. It's the little things which count!

[@antking8847]

My Mrs could still be late in a CRV. She's got it down to a fine art!!

[@front2427]

Fashionably late?

[@EurobeatR26B]

"How's it going, welcome back" I love this intro so much -- I can't quite put my finger on it, but hearing those words makes me feel so happy

[@jimcrabtree5205]

The eco button just makes it even more frustrating to drive and stops the aircon working properly. It does virtually nothing to the fuel consumption around town and gets you maybe 10% more on a run but not worth bothering with

[@andrewbaxter9395]

I put these up with Volvo V70s and Rav 4s as a car you can buy at 10 years old and 100,000 miles with an easy 10 years and 100,000 miles of reliable life still left in it.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Totally agree

[@vishy]

I love the CRV. Zero stress, rugged, respectable in all situations and gets me from a to b. That’s all I care about

[@OlaitanAjiboye]

Great review Matt, I am looking forward to buying a mk4 CR-V having sold my previous mk2 CR-V. Came on to KZbin looking for reviews and boom! Found your latest upload on my notifications. You help made up my mind. Thank you Matt.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thanks for watching. It’s a very nice reliable car

[@TassieLorenzo]

It has a stroked out 2.0L version of the 1.8L single-cam Civic R18 economy engine, rather than the usual twin-cam K20 2.0L engine, which is interesting (to me at least!). Should be quite a reliable (if not at all sporty) lump.

[@kagithkagith]

I'm a guy in my mid 20s and have never been someone who wanted to drive flashy cars. This seems ideal for road trips and camping trips and I would scoop this up in a heartbeat (I don't wanna wait to get old to start saving, so a car like this is ideal)

[@g.espichan]

Your videos are great, found your channel quite recently and I’m hooked. Keep up the great work :)

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you! Welcome

[@JP5isalive]

I've owned a 2014 diesel Civic tourer for nearly 2 years now and I know exactly what Matt means about how you wouldn't give it a 2nd look as you walk away. I bought it with 63k miles and it has 79k on now. It replaced an ageing and failing Volvo S60 D5 with 180,000 miles on the clock. I have looked at these CRV's too. My Civic is very very reliable, don't get me wrong, only needing a new battery and usual wear and tear items, brake pads and discs in my ownership. (May need rear shocks for next mot and they're a genuine part only @ £100 each). It's well screwed together and solid, no rattles or squeeks etc. I was won over with the massive boot, "magic" rear seats and futuristic dashboard. All very clever. Plus timing chain, not belt. Cheap insurance, £20 per year tax, etc. But it just doesn't excite, in style or driving. It does a job. In my opinion it should've been offered with the 2.2 diesel as found in the older Accord and older Civic. Definitely needs more power than the 1.6 i-DTEC can offer @118bhp/ps whatever. The cabin is a bit on the plasticy side in places but seems robust. Everything still works but is a bit mundane now for me. It's just not my old Volvo. It was just a bit of class, plenty of power on tap, great noise from the 5 cylinder D5. The materials used and the cabin quality was excellent, just better quality plastics than the Honda. And you can't buy a Civic estate after 2018 model year or an Accord after 2012. Everybody wants suv's so honda stopped doing estates. Bad times in my opinion.

[@benhenry1571]

Great review as always! Love to see you review a 2016 Lexus RX450 (first of the new shape) considering pulling the trigger on one for circa £25k

[@HighPeakAutos]

For £25k I think they're a bargain. Reliable and depreciate slowly

[@grahamcole4240]

I have had my 2011 CRV EX diesel auto for 5 years and it now has 113,000 miles on the clock. I service it once every year with my local mechanic and it has never failed me. It still drives like the day I bought it and without a doubt is the best car I have ever owned, and I have had a lot after 50 years of driving. The MPG of the car isn't great about 35mpg on a run is normal and the only thing I wish it had was a memory seat. I am thinking of treating myself to a new car and unfortunately Honda no longer make diesels and I just love the way diesels drive compared to petrol cars. The one thing Honda has is incredible build quality, whoever buys my car will be having a really good car.

[@neilcussons4744]

Put some millers diesel power in, I get between 41-43 on a run.

[@scunetom]

I fit the ‘retired guy’ profile you mentioned and I considered one of these but opted for a Skoda Yeti. Similar reliability but much more character. Great review as always.

[@volt8684]

Wait till yeti is 10yrs old

[@andyb190]

Another great vid Matt. I know Honda dealers and their biggest gripe is, other than servicing, they don't see their customers often enough to sell them a new car. They have to work extra hard to get them through the door, unlike many European dealers who have customers hanging around waiting for the latest fix.

[@treehouse7861]

lol

[@andrewgrimshaw5180]

I c.hose a mark 3 CRV as a company car and never regretted the decision. It was a 2.2 diesel which was quite quick, extremely comfortable and in 3 years nothing went wrong. I always though the driving position with armrests in exactly the right place was one of the best. It took us to France each year and never missed a beat. I was sorry to see it go. Great review again!

[@richiebtime489]

I've got a 10th gen Civic it's my first Honda. I've had fast cars and more interesting cars. But you just get in it knowing it's gonna get you there, now and in 10 years time.

[@DJGamesHD]

Mum's got a 2008 2.2 dieseltjat was very well looked after by the previous owner and its absolutely brilliant. So comfortable, good looking and very well built I would recommend it over the Toyota rav 4 in my opinion

[@doncorleon9]

The Rav4 is just not a good place to sit in.

[@MotorTorq_ZA]

My grandpa has an old Crv that’s 22 years old still runs like top

[@sjs5375]

I’m currently on my second crv now, 2018 se nav plus, and the main reason for this is actually that I can’t really get in and out of a “normal” car due to a bad back injury years ago.I’d love to know what I should have bought if I was INTO cars as the crv is possibly the easiest and most comfortable car we’ve had.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Car people don’t choose their cars based on what is easier to get in and out of 😂

[@sjs5375]

@@HighPeakAutos so which suv would they choose? 🤔 For future reference obviously 👍

[@sg-tp7sc]

That’s interesting for me I’ve just spent 5 months in hospital.And my mobility is poor I need a car that’s easy to get out of

[@obez42]

Bought a 25k miles 2016 1.6 diesel CRV 6 speed manual for my wife 2 years ago and she absolutely loves it! It’s deceptively spacious with a huge boot, is quite spritely and nippy and it’s hard to believe it’s only a 1.6 engine that it has! It’s very easy to drive and is effortless on motorways, empty or fully laden. It’s engine packs a decent amount of low down torque which allows it deliver effortless acceleration in any gear from low revs without need to constantly change gears uphill or to nip past a dawdling car… It’s very economical and on a leisurely light footed A road journey over the weekend averaging about 60mph, it returned 61 mpg! At 70 it returns low to mid 50s mpg and at 80 (I’m told 😅) returns 47mpg! For an SUV of it’s size that’s amazing! Road tax is also a very low £30 per annum! Have only had 1 issue to deal with which was a faulty alternator last month, otherwise hasn’t missed a beat. It also holds its value incredibly well and in the current topsy turvy world of rising UK used car prices, has seen its value increase by a scarcely believable 50% of what we paid for it!! I whole heartedly recommend this 1.6 diesel version of the CRV!!

[@williammorris1384]

Just give tiger woods a VW Golf ! Thanks Matt , excellent review. I’ve had a Honda ,( the mk 1 jazz), excellent reliability and practical too. They make sensible smart cars , in my opinion. 👍

[@chrisbolton5461]

Another great video. Optimum length, nothing left out and well presented.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Thank you

[@davidwitham5588]

I have a petrol manual. Agree with what you say but with the manual, and no wife in the car, you can row it along using higher revs when it goes a bit better.

[@schmoosmith]

I used to work at the Honda plant in Swindon. I built CRV, Civic and Jazz and will say that they are meticulously put together. They are very good cars and would recommend to anyone wanting a solid, reliable car.

[@HighPeakAutos]

Good to know

[@MaximilianvonPinneberg]

Not my Mum's. the main Honda engineering bits were great but just plastic and dash trim kept falling off or became loose. The new one she has is much better assembled.

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

Why can British people who work at a Japanese firm in the UK put a car together properly yet as soon as they start working at Land Rover or Vauxhall, every car they build is a Friday afternoon job? Is it bad design on the part if the UK brands, bad quality control, or just bad everything.

[@schmoosmith]

@@Jabber-ig3iw Japanese quality systems, the best.

[@Coops4343]

We had a Mk2 CRV 2.0 petrol from new in 2002, replaced a dreadful Freelander. Kept the CRV 10 years, 120K miles, faultless, absolutely nothing mechanical went wrong. A bit tatty, S London bumps and scrapes so sold at auction - they were fighting over it. Great dull cars 👍

[@waldemarferens]

I'm 37 years old owner of 2015 CR-V 2.2 I-DTEC EX and disagree with statement of car non car guy. I'm delighted with fuel economy, comfort, being spacecious and quick acceleration. Reliable no nonsense awesome car.

[@gardyloo4891]

We still own our 2014 CRV, 2.0 FWD Manual in SE+ spec, two years ago we bought the upgraded version with the 1.5 Turbo engine on a 2019 plate, I still prefer to drive the 2014, it seems better built than the newer model , the new model has the electric hand brake which I am not a fan of and it has also needed to be re calibrated by Honda twice because it causes the rear brake pads to drag on the discs, the 2.0 may be slower and less powerful with 20 hp less but ours manages to tow our 21 ft caravan weighing 1300kgs without any issues which has surprised many but it is rated to tow 1700kgs, the 1.5 CRV also has a tow-bar but towing with it is less satisfying because of the Turbo lag as a result the car uses much more fuel and you get flat spots when you need more power like when pulling out into traffic. I like both cars for different reasons but I prefer the 2.0 its smoother and less demanding better gearing easier to park and lighter to drive. I don't know why Honda decided to drop the bigger engines and replaced with smaller turbo chargers engines they might be cheaper to tax but the engines are not better, Honda have gone backwards in engineering terms with the newer engines, as a semi retired Engineer myself I find it annoying because I have always loved Honda engines for the last 30 years, I own an S2000 as my weekend car and its the best engine Honda has ever built in my opinion, sadly no longer in production.

[@A4ANT]

Was Thinking of getting the same spec as you mentioned for a family daily for exactly the same reasons. Comparing figures the 2.0 is more economical than the 1.5 I think Do you think it’s worth getting a 2.0 LTR I have the 1.8 so have faith it would be tough.. just not sure how nippy it would be with a CRV body. 2WD is my plan as it’s lighter

[@gardyloo4891]

@@A4ANT The new CRV hates short trips it has a Turbo GDI engine that takes an eternity to warm up in cold weather , if you do short trips the Oil life monitor drops mileage at a high rate, the older 2.0 Mk4 engines are not Turbo charged and they dont need Oil changes as often they are a bit slower and thirstier but servicing is less frequent or expensive. We dont own the Mk5 Crv anymore it was a bit like a bus to drive. If I were you I would look for a low mileage mk4 Crv its a better car in my opinion. We made a mistake buying the Mk5 the 2.0 is not fast but it has enough power and torque to keep up with most cars on the motorway , we get 30 mpg around town in it which I dont think is too bad for a heavyish car we arent fast drivers anyway.

[@ianmason3040]

Brilliant review Matt - I did buy one for my other half as well as a Citroen C4 Grand Picasso, she chose the latter (bigger boot for the dogs). I liked the CRV for its quality, it was the 1.6 turbo diesel and I'v never been in a car before after you'd filled it up that had a 600 mile range, I never got that but it was just nice to see. Hope business is good now things are finally lifting.

[@AUCHTERMUCHTYZZ]

I’ve had 3 of these over the years great car

[@neilcussons4744]

Bought our 2.2 idtec (man) in 2019, our second Honda and a fantastic car, makes me smile every time I drive it, torque goes on forever. Only real problem has been had to replace clutch slave and master, they are known faults looking into it. Cruise control going to France was sublime, as we're French motorways!.

[@Yb807-g]

Nice review I found ur channel a while ago. And now it is part of my daily routine

[@HighPeakAutos]

Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching

[@Seamusavalon35]

Got ours in 2013 amazing car brilliant for family lost of space for golf clubs no issues since we bought it highly recommend it

[@DoubleDeckerAnton]

I liked these and the Toyota RAV 4 as well.

[@HighPeakAutos]

I agree although the petrols are better than the diesels

[@weeverob]

Just last month we gave up our 2012 when on the interstate it was totaled by multiple rear ended collisions from a tractor trailer truck. In 10 years my maintenance was regular oil changes, a few sets of tires, one set spark plugs, fluids and a few batteries and an alternator. A superior and dependable vehicle that will be sorely missed. Killed waaay before it’s time.

[@dg115]

I have one in the same colour and same engine but manual. I'm a petrol head but I have kids and need something reliable and safe. I did look at buying a new Dacia duster, but after test driving one of these it was a no brainer.

[@ruinunes8251]

So, did you ended up buying the CRV?

[@dg115]

@@ruinunes8251 yes I did a very tidy 2013 se plus with full honda service history, one previous owner. No problems with it so far.

[@ruinunes8251]

@@dg115 glad you are happy with it. I’m also looking for one, just doing a bit more of research for now. I read many reviews with people complaining about the CRVs shaking while at the traffic lights, the car was vibrating after 60 mph etc. From what I can see, the ones shaking at the traffic lights are with CVTs. Now the ones vibrating after 60 mph, I’m trying to crack that nut 😃

[@dg115]

@@ruinunes8251 mine is a manual gearbox with the 2.0 k20 engine.

[@ruinunes8251]

@@dg115 Did you ever notice any vibration while driving over 60mph? From what I read, Honda changed driveshafts in some CRVs because they were unbalanced. As I heard once, your car is only as good as the parts supplied to the car manufacturer. LOL

[@martinlaver007]

We have a 2014 1.6 diesel and it's surprisingly quick and economical. Over the last few thousand miles we've average 49.9mpg. And the tax is £35. Eco mode is always on.

[@taz2392]

Manual or auto?

[@jimcrabtree5205]

Thanks for doing the video. I hope the new owner enjoys it. So true it is a boring car. I traded mine for a 2007 jag xj as soon as I no longer needed the practicality. But I do think they are underrated. They do everything well just a bit boring and lacking in character but if you need a car to be a family appliance these are perfect

[@HighPeakAutos]

I totally agree. Thanks for selling it to me.

[@jimcrabtree5205]

@@HighPeakAutos your welcome, it was a pleasure. Easiest car transaction I've ever done!

[@HighPeakAutos]

@@jimcrabtree5205 did you watch the video right up until the very end?

[@jimcrabtree5205]

@@HighPeakAutos I just did, thanks matt, thats awesome!

[@Geshmaal]

I think appreciating a car that is designed well and fulfils its role better than others in its class is as much of a 'car guy' thing as lusting after fast exotic cars - possibly moreso even? Maybe it's the progression from Car Guy to Car Man.

[@athollmcnicoll256]

Thanks Matt, my current GF watched this with me and totally agreed with almost every word said and she owns one herself and has done for the past coming up for 8 years without any major problem to speak of. Me I've still got my Fiesta, which she states always when I pass her and zoom off into the darkness "Send me a postcard when you reach whatever destination your going for and get me a mug of tea in Darling!"

[@HighPeakAutos]

😂

[@mantaskizeliauskas9567]

Brilliant comment! 😂🤣

[@RKUK6]

You say "current GF", does that mean like a car you're due an upgrade for a more recent model? 😂😂

[@athollmcnicoll256]

@@RKUK6 Anything is possible as my current has tendencies to become a bit OTT and as I am older than her and see things differently - well lets say we don't see eye to eye, she being 6 inches lower than me.

[@thetruth3213]

The car which retains your grandkids' inheritance...brilliant

[@lennypickle]

Hi Matt. Thanks for this review. Been looking for a solid car since our last car was breaking down left right and centre. I’ve focused on the CRV now and just trying to find the right one with my limited budget. Hoping my 3.5k will get me something reliable.

[@ln5747]

With my 07 Civic at almost 200k miles my head is saying upgrade to a used CRV but my 💓 is saying a Forester XT. A review on a Forester (preferably XT) would be awesome Matt!

[@paulwilkinson3963]

That lack of transmission tunnel was uncomfortably satisfying

[@Z-u-m-a]

Brilliant family lugabout. Got a low milage mk3 over a later model as it's better diesel unit with no DPF. Actually quite nice to drive and just takes things in its stride.