Hey guys! Are you thinking about buying a used Honda CR-V and are stuck trying to figure out which year is the best bang for your buck? You've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the Honda CR-V models from 2017, 2018, and 2019 to help you make an informed decision. We’ll break down the key differences, improvements, and potential drawbacks of each year so you can drive off in the CR-V that’s perfect for you. Let’s get started!

A Quick Overview

Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, here's a quick rundown of what each model year offers:

• 2017 Honda CR-V: This was the first year of the fifth generation, boasting a fresh design, improved fuel efficiency, and enhanced tech features. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a modern SUV without breaking the bank.
• 2018 Honda CR-V: Building upon the success of the 2017 model, the 2018 CR-V offers the same great features with minor tweaks and improvements. Think of it as a refined version of the initial fifth-generation model.
• 2019 Honda CR-V: The 2019 model introduced some notable updates, including the addition of Honda Sensing as a standard feature across all trims. This makes it a compelling option for those prioritizing safety.

Exterior and Interior Design

When it comes to the exterior and interior design of the Honda CR-V, you will notice some similarities and subtle differences among the 2017, 2018, and 2019 models. The fifth generation of the Honda CR-V, which began in 2017, brought a more modern and sophisticated look to the vehicle, with a bolder front grille, sleek headlights, and a more sculpted body. All three model years share this fundamental design, so if you like the overall aesthetic, you're in luck regardless of the year you choose.

• Exterior: The basic body shape and dimensions remained consistent across the three years. However, minor changes in trim details, such as the design of the wheels or the finish on the grille, could differentiate them. For example, higher trim levels might have featured LED headlights or unique alloy wheel designs. Overall, the exterior differences are minimal and mostly come down to personal preferences regarding specific trim options.
• Interior: The interior design also remained largely unchanged from 2017 to 2019. The CR-V offered a spacious and comfortable cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout. The dashboard featured a touchscreen infotainment system, and the seats were designed for optimal comfort during long drives. Subtle differences might include the availability of certain interior color options or minor changes to the trim materials, but these are not significant enough to sway your decision dramatically. Whether it’s the spacious cargo area or the thoughtfully designed dashboard, the interior of the Honda CR-V aimed to provide a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers.

In conclusion, the exterior and interior design of the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Honda CR-V models are quite similar. The fifth-generation design introduced in 2017 set the standard, and the subsequent years maintained this aesthetic with only minor tweaks. If you appreciate the modern and functional design of the CR-V, you’ll likely be satisfied with any of these model years. Focus on other factors like features, safety technology, and mechanical improvements to make your final decision.

Technology and Features

Let's explore the technology and features available in the Honda CR-V models from 2017, 2018, and 2019. Technology is constantly evolving, and even subtle changes from year to year can significantly impact your driving experience. The Honda CR-V aimed to stay competitive by offering a range of tech and convenience features, so let's break down what each year brings to the table.

• 2017 Honda CR-V: The 2017 model marked the beginning of the fifth generation and included a modern infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Depending on the trim level, you could find features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. It also came with available advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and collision mitigation braking. These technologies aimed to enhance both convenience and safety for drivers and passengers.
• 2018 Honda CR-V: The 2018 Honda CR-V largely mirrored the 2017 model in terms of technology and features. It continued to offer the same infotainment options, smartphone integration, and advanced safety systems. However, there were no significant upgrades or new features introduced in this model year. If you're considering the 2018 CR-V, you're essentially getting the same tech package as the 2017 version.
• 2019 Honda CR-V: The 2019 model year brought a notable improvement in terms of standard safety features. Honda made its Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies standard across all trim levels. This included features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. This enhancement made the 2019 CR-V a more attractive option for those prioritizing safety, as these features were previously only available on higher trim levels.

In summary, while the 2017 and 2018 Honda CR-V models offered a solid set of technology and convenience features, the 2019 model stood out with its inclusion of Honda Sensing as a standard feature across all trims. If safety is a top priority for you, the 2019 CR-V provides the best value with its comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. For those who don't necessarily need the latest safety features, the 2017 and 2018 models still offer a respectable tech package that can enhance your driving experience.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

Now, let's talk about the performance and fuel efficiency of the Honda CR-V for the model years 2017, 2018, and 2019. Performance and fuel efficiency are critical factors to consider when purchasing a vehicle, as they directly impact your driving experience and running costs. The Honda CR-V aimed to offer a balance of both, providing adequate power for daily driving while maintaining competitive fuel economy. Let's explore the specifics of each model year.

• 2017 Honda CR-V: The 2017 CR-V came with two engine options: a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 2.4-liter engine produced 184 horsepower and 180 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.5-liter turbo engine delivered 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged engine was generally preferred for its improved fuel efficiency and slightly better performance. Fuel economy for the 1.5-liter turbo engine was rated at around 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient choice in the compact SUV class.
• 2018 Honda CR-V: The 2018 CR-V retained the same engine options as the 2017 model, with no significant changes to the performance or fuel efficiency. The 2.4-liter and 1.5-liter turbo engines continued to offer similar power outputs and fuel economy ratings. Drivers could expect the same smooth and responsive performance from the 1.5-liter turbo engine, along with its impressive fuel efficiency. If you're considering the 2018 CR-V, you can expect a driving experience that closely mirrors the 2017 model.
• 2019 Honda CR-V: The 2019 CR-V also carried over the same engine options from the previous years, with no notable changes to the performance or fuel efficiency. The 2.4-liter and 1.5-liter turbo engines remained the standard offerings, providing similar power and fuel economy figures. The 1.5-liter turbo engine continued to be the preferred choice for its blend of performance and efficiency. The driving experience in the 2019 CR-V was consistent with the 2017 and 2018 models.

In conclusion, the performance and fuel efficiency of the Honda CR-V remained consistent across the 2017, 2018, and 2019 model years. All three years offered the same engine options, with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine providing a good balance of power and fuel economy. If you're primarily concerned with performance and efficiency, you can choose any of these model years with confidence, as they all deliver a similar driving experience. Other factors, such as features, safety technology, and overall condition, may play a more significant role in your decision.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the Honda CR-V aimed to provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers. Let's explore the safety features available in the 2017, 2018, and 2019 models.

• 2017 Honda CR-V: The 2017 CR-V offered a range of safety features, including standard airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control. Higher trim levels came with advanced safety technologies such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking. These features helped to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The 2017 CR-V earned good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
• 2018 Honda CR-V: The 2018 CR-V carried over the same safety features as the 2017 model, with no significant changes or upgrades. It continued to offer a solid set of standard safety equipment, along with available advanced safety technologies on higher trim levels. The 2018 CR-V also maintained the same good safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.
• 2019 Honda CR-V: The 2019 CR-V introduced a significant improvement in terms of standard safety features. Honda made its Honda Sensing suite of safety technologies standard across all trim levels. This included features like adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. This enhancement made the 2019 CR-V a more attractive option for those prioritizing safety, as these features were previously only available on higher trim levels. The 2019 CR-V continued to earn top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

In summary, while the 2017 and 2018 Honda CR-V models offered a respectable set of safety features, the 2019 model stood out with its inclusion of Honda Sensing as a standard feature across all trims. If safety is a top priority for you, the 2019 CR-V provides the best value with its comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies. For those who don't necessarily need the latest safety features, the 2017 and 2018 models still offer a solid safety package that can provide peace of mind on the road.

Reliability and Maintenance

Reliability and maintenance are crucial aspects to consider when buying a used car. The Honda CR-V has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle, but it's still essential to know what to expect in terms of maintenance and potential issues. Let's explore the reliability and maintenance considerations for the 2017, 2018, and 2019 Honda CR-V models.

• 2017 Honda CR-V: The 2017 CR-V was the first model year of the fifth generation, and as such, it had a few reported issues. Some owners reported problems with the infotainment system, including glitches and unresponsive touchscreens. There were also some reports of issues with the climate control system and the fuel injectors. However, overall, the 2017 CR-V was considered to be a reliable vehicle. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks, was essential to keep it running smoothly.
• 2018 Honda CR-V: The 2018 CR-V addressed some of the issues reported in the 2017 model. The infotainment system was updated to improve its performance and reliability. There were also fewer reports of problems with the climate control system and fuel injectors. The 2018 CR-V was generally considered to be more reliable than the 2017 model. Regular maintenance remained essential to ensure its longevity.
• 2019 Honda CR-V: The 2019 CR-V continued to improve upon the reliability of the previous models. There were very few reported issues with the infotainment system, climate control, or fuel injectors. The 2019 CR-V was considered to be one of the most reliable models in the fifth generation. Regular maintenance was still necessary, but owners could generally expect a trouble-free ownership experience.

In conclusion, the reliability of the Honda CR-V improved from 2017 to 2019. The 2019 model was considered to be the most reliable, with very few reported issues. If reliability is a top priority for you, the 2019 CR-V is the best choice. However, the 2018 CR-V is also a good option, as it addressed some of the issues reported in the 2017 model. Regular maintenance is essential for all three model years to ensure their longevity and trouble-free operation.

The Verdict: Which Year Wins?

Alright, guys, so which Honda CR-V model year – 2017, 2018, or 2019 – comes out on top? It really boils down to your priorities and budget.

• For the Budget-Conscious: If you're looking for the most affordable option, the 2017 CR-V is a solid choice. It offers a modern design, improved fuel efficiency, and essential tech features without breaking the bank. Just be aware of the potential infotainment issues and factor in regular maintenance.
• For a Bit More Refinement: The 2018 CR-V is a slightly refined version of the 2017 model. It addresses some of the initial issues and offers a similar driving experience. If you can find a 2018 model at a comparable price to the 2017, it might be worth the upgrade for the improved reliability.
• For the Safety-Obsessed: The 2019 CR-V is the clear winner if safety is your top priority. With Honda Sensing as a standard feature across all trims, you get a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies that can help prevent accidents and protect you and your passengers.

Ultimately, all three model years are great options. Consider what you value most in a vehicle and choose the Honda CR-V that best fits your needs and budget. Happy driving!