The fourth generation Honda CR-V was unveiled in 2012 with a total redesign. One of America’s favorite compact SUVs got a new look and a lot of great new features, including an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, as well as the traditional front-wheel drive version.
Key Features
The 2012 CR-V has a very convenient five-inch LCD screen as part of its infotainment center to help you with navigation, as well as music information and more. Our other favorite feature is the folding rear bench. Not only does it offer a 60/40 folding split, but you can also easily flip it forward with an easy pull of a lever for more cargo space.
Changes for 2012
The 2012 Honda CR-V didn’t just get a visual redesign. It also gained better fuel efficiency, as well as upgrades to its all-wheel drive system, and a lot of new optional features, too. These include a rear-seat entertainment system and other comfort and safety features, too.
What We Like
For such a small SUV, the CR-V has a lot of carrying capacity and cargo space. And, with the new LCD display for its infotainment center, you can get anywhere you like and make easy music, navigation, and entertainment selections without taking your attention off the road.
What Concerns Us
Honda still won’t offer the CR-V in a V6, offering only a four-cylinder engine. If you want to go to the mountains or haul a lot of cargo, you could be looking at some lag in acceleration.
Available Models
Whatever package you choose for your CR-V, you’ll get the same engine – a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder with 185 horsepower at 7000 RPM and 163 lb-ft of torque at 4300 RPM. While this may not be enough for some, it works for most, and it gets great gas mileage with 23/31 MPG (city/highway) for the two-wheel drive model and 22/30 MPG for the all-wheel drive model.
Major Recalls
A few 2012 Honda CR-V models have been recalled because they are able to shift from park into gear without depressing the brake. Some others have been recalled to correct mistaken values on their safety certification labels.
Common Issues
While the CR-V is a very reliable vehicle, the most common issues for this model include the battery dying prematurely and the engine failing to turn over properly at start. You can easily determine if either of these is the case when you take a test drive.
