Overview

Everything you need to know about buying a Honda CR-V in 2025, new or used. This guide breaks down the latest model range, compares petrol and hybrid options, explains key features across variants, and helps you choose the right setup for your needs.

A trusted presence on Australian roads since 1997, the sixth-generation CR-V offers front or all-wheel drive, five or seven seats, standard safety tech, modern connectivity, and a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty.

Shopping used? Learn which years to prioritise, the common issues to watch for, and how to inspect with confidence. Known for durability, well-maintained CR-Vs can exceed 300,000km, making them a strong choice for buyers focused on long-term value.

Here's what matters about the 2025 Honda CR-V: it costs less than it did last year, delivers better fuel economy if you choose hybrid, and continues doing what it's always done best, being a thoroughly competent family hauler that won't leave you stranded.

Honda sharpened their pencils for 2025, dropping prices by up to $2,800 across select variants. The entry VTi X+ now starts at $41,900 drive-away, undercutting equivalently equipped RAV4 and CX-5 models while matching their safety and technology offerings. Seven variants span the range, from that basic front-driver through to the $59,900 hybrid RS with its premium Bose audio and sporty exterior treatment.

The sixth-generation CR-V, now in its third year on sale, offers a straightforward proposition. Choose between 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol or Honda's two-motor hybrid system. Pick five or seven seats, depending on family size. Decide whether front or all-wheel drive suits your driving conditions. Every variant includes Honda Sensing safety technology, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a five-year unlimited-kilometre warranty that beats most rivals still offering three years.

Real-world fuel consumption separates the powertrains clearly: petrol versions deliver 7.5-8.5L/100km depending on drivetrain, while hybrids consistently achieve 5.5-6.5L/100km. That economy gap translates to meaningful savings for high-kilometre drivers, though the hybrid's $4,100-$8,100 price premium means you'll need 3-5 years to recover costs through fuel savings alone.

Used buyers face solid prospects. CR-Vs from 2019-2021 offer modern features and proven durability at depreciated prices. $25,000-$35,000 buys quality examples with 80,000-150,000km and full-service history. Earlier 2017-2018 models require caution due to oil dilution issues that affected early turbocharged engines, though Honda's software fixes resolved most problems.

This guide covers model-by-model pricing, standard equipment, powertrain differences, ownership costs, common mechanical issues in used examples, and practical buying advice for both new and pre-owned purchases. If you're shopping mid-size SUVs and want straightforward information without sales pitch nonsense, you're in the right place.

The 2025 Lineup: Models, Pricing and What You Get

Honda's 2025 CR-V range follows a logical hierarchy, starting with the essentials and building up to near-luxury territory. All prices here are drive-away figures for most Australian postcodes, meaning they include registration, stamp duty, dealer delivery and CTP insurance. Just note that these can vary slightly depending on your state or postcode, so always confirm with your local dealer before signing anything.

Every single CR-V comes with a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. That's proper peace of mind, especially compared to some rivals still clinging to three-year coverage. Honda also throws in five years of roadside assistance, which kicks in after your first scheduled service.

Here are some key things to keep in mind when looking at or using this Honda CR-V variants table.

• Prices are drive-away — These are from-state indicative figures (e.g., From $41,900 for VTi X+). Actual costs can vary slightly by location, dealer, or current promotions always confirm with Honda Australia or a dealer.
• Petrol vs Hybrid — Petrol models (1.5L turbo) offer more power (140kW/240Nm) but higher fuel use (~7.4–7.8L/100km). Hybrids (e:HEV) deliver better economy (~5.5L/100km real-world), instant torque (335Nm), quieter/smoother driving, but slightly less peak power (135kW) and are FWD-only.
• Seating & practicality — 5-seat versions give bigger boot space (497–554L seats up). 7-seat (X7/L7) versions drop to ~201L with all seats up — third row is best for kids/short trips, not long adult journeys.
• Drivetrain choice — FWD is fine for most city/highway use and saves fuel/money. AWD adds traction for wet, gravel, or light off-road but costs ~$2,500 extra and slightly more fuel.
• Trim progression — Starts basic but loaded (VTi X+ has full safety/tech). Mid-trims add comfort (leather, nav, sunroof). Top ones (LX/RS) bring premium audio, digital dash, hands-free tailgate, and sportier touches.
• Value sweet spots — VTi X+ for budget buyers, e:HEV Sport for hybrid efficiency without max price, e:HEV RS for the ultimate blend (recent small price drop helps).
• Safety is consistent — Honda Sensing (adaptive cruise, lane keep, auto braking, etc.) is standard across all.
• Boot/flexibility note — Folding seats expand space massively (~1,072–1,132L); hybrids lose a bit due to battery but still generous.

These points highlight the main trade-offs in price, seats, efficiency, and features to help match the right CR-V to your needs!

Powertrains: Petrol vs Hybrid Performance

1.5-Litre Turbo Petrol (All Non-Hybrid Variants)

Honda's 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder is a workhorse. With 140kW at 6,000rpm and 240Nm from 1,700-5,000rpm, it delivers adequate performance without feeling sluggish. The turbo spools quickly, so you get useful shove from low revs, ideal for highway overtaking or merging onto freeways.

The CVT transmission is smooth but divisive. Unlike traditional automatics with distinct gear changes, it operates continuously, holding the engine at constant revs under hard acceleration. This creates a droning sensation that some drivers find unpleasant. Around town or at cruising speeds, it's fine, quiet and efficient. It's only when you floor the throttle that the CVT's character becomes obvious.

Real-world fuel economy typically runs 7.5-8.0L/100km for the front-drive models, edging up to 8-8.5L/100km for AWD versions. That's competitive with rivals, though not exceptional. The engine requires 91 RON unleaded, which keeps running costs reasonable.

Service intervals are 12 months or 10,000km, whichever comes first. Honda quotes oil consumption within normal parameters, though early 2017-2018 turbo CR-Vs had oil dilution issues (petrol contaminating oil), more on that in the used buying section.

2.0-Litre Hybrid e:HEV System (Sport and RS)

This is where the CR-V gets interesting. Honda's e:HEV setup feels fundamentally different from the petrol version, operating more like an electric vehicle with range-extension capability than a traditional hybrid.

The 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle engine produces 110kW, paired with a 135kW traction motor and a 30kW generator motor. Total system output is 135kW and 335Nm,on paper less powerful than the turbo petrol, but the torque delivery makes it feel quicker in everyday driving.

Here's the key difference: the electric motors provide 100% of their torque from 0rpm. Press the throttle and the CR-V surges forward smoothly and silently, with none of the turbo lag or CVT drone of the petrol version. The petrol engine usually runs as a generator, charging the 1.06kWh battery and providing supplementary power. Only above roughly 70km/h or during hard acceleration does it mechanically connect to the wheels.

The system's intelligence is impressive. It constantly calculates the most efficient way to use available power, switching seamlessly between three modes: EV Drive (electric-only, up to ~2km range), Hybrid Drive (engine generating electricity for motors) and Engine Drive (direct mechanical connection for efficiency). You can't manually select these,the system handles it automatically,though there's an EV button to prioritise electric-only operation when charge allows.

Regenerative braking is adjustable via steering wheel paddles, with four levels of intensity. Set it to maximum and you can drive almost entirely on the throttle, rarely touching the brake pedal around town. It takes 10 minutes to get used to, then becomes second nature.

Fuel economy is the real party trick: Honda claims 5.5L/100km combined, and it's achievable. Gentle drivers regularly report sub-6L/100km figures, even with mixed city/highway use. The hybrid runs on 91 RON unleaded (no premium fuel required) and uses slightly more oil than the petrol version,expect a top-up around 10,000km if you're doing short trips.

The hybrid's extra 80kg is barely noticeable. If anything, the battery placement (under the rear seats) lowers the centre of gravity, improving handling balance. Ride quality is near-identical to the petrol CR-V, though the RS-specific suspension tuning gives it marginally sharper responses.

So which powertrain to choose? If you do predominantly highway driving, the petrol's simplicity and lower purchase price make sense. If you're mostly city-based, rack up high annual kilometres, or simply prefer smoother, quieter operation, the hybrid's extra cost ($4,100-$8,100 depending on variants compared) will pay back through fuel savings within 3-5 years. The hybrid also holds its value better at resale.

Safety and Technology

Honda Sensing Suite

Every CR-V gets Honda Sensing as standard, a comprehensive active safety package that's among the best in class. Here's what's included:

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Uses radar and camera to detect vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists ahead. If you're not reacting to an imminent collision, it first warns you, then pre-tensions seatbelts and applies full braking automatically. It genuinely works, Honda's false-positive rate is low.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains set speed and adjusts distance to the car ahead, bringing the CR-V to a complete stop in traffic then resuming automatically when traffic moves. It works from 0-180km/h and feels confident, not jerky.

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Gently steers to keep you centred in your lane on highways. It's not hands-free autonomous driving; you must keep hands on the wheel, but it reduces fatigue on long trips. Works with visible lane markings from about 70km/h upwards.

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM): Detects if you're unintentionally leaving the road and applies corrective steering and braking. Useful if you're distracted or drowsy.

Traffic Sign Recognition: Reads speed limit signs and displays them on the dashboard. Also recognises stop signs, give way signs and overtaking restrictions. Accuracy is good, though it occasionally misreads temporary roadwork signs.

Auto High Beam: Automatically switches between high and low beam based on oncoming traffic. Simple but effective at night.

Higher trims (VTi X7 onwards) add Blind Spot Information (BSI) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. Little icons in the door mirrors light up when vehicles are lurking in your blind spots, and the cross-traffic alert beeps if someone's approaching from the side as you reverse out.

The e:HEV RS gets Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) headlights, which automatically shade specific sections of the beam pattern to avoid dazzling oncoming drivers while keeping your lane fully lit. It's noticeably better than auto high beam in areas with mixed traffic.

ANCAP Rating

All 2025 CR-V variants carry a five-star ANCAP safety rating (tested 2023). Scores are strong across the board: 88% adult occupant protection, 87% child occupant protection, 79% vulnerable road user protection and 85% safety assist. Seven airbags are standard, including a front centre airbag to prevent driver/passenger collision in side impacts.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 9.0-inch touchscreen is standard across the range. It's responsive, with clear graphics and logical menu structures, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto work wirelessly, connecting automatically when you get in the car. Physical volume and tuning knobs below the screen are a welcome touch in an era of touch-only interfaces.

Lower trims (VTi X+ and X7) lack built-in nav, relying on smartphone mirroring instead. That's fine for most people,modern phone nav is generally superior anyway, but older buyers may prefer the integrated system in L-spec and above.

The digital driver display varies: base models get a 7.0-inch colour screen showing trip info, fuel economy and safety alerts. VTi LX and e:HEV RS upgrade to a 10.2-inch fully configurable display with customisable layouts, more detailed energy flow graphics (on hybrids) and navigation prompts.

Wireless smartphone charging is standard from VTi L onwards, located in the centre console. It supports Qi-compatible devices and works well, though phones can slide around on rough roads.

Honda Connect telematics (standard across the range) links to the Honda app on your phone. You can remotely lock/unlock doors, check fuel level and tyre pressures, locate your parked car and schedule service reminders. If the airbags deploy, the system automatically calls emergency services and transmits your GPS coordinates. It's genuinely useful, particularly for families with young drivers.

Bose Premium Audio (VTi LX and e:HEV RS) features 12 speakers including a subwoofer under the driver's seat. Sound quality is genuinely impressive,well-balanced across frequencies with proper stereo imaging. If you listen to music regularly, it's worth the upgrade alone.

Practicality and Storage

Boot space depends on seating configuration:

• Five-seaters: 497 litres (petrol) or 554 litres (hybrid) with rear seats up, expanding to 1,072 litres (petrol) or 1,120 litres (hybrid) with seats folded. The hybrid's battery packaging actually improves boot space slightly.
• Seven-seaters: 201 litres with all seats up (enough for a few soft bags), 554 litres with third row folded (decent weekly shop), 1,132 litres with rows two and three folded (removal van territory).

The boot floor is low and flat when seats are folded, with tiedown hooks, underfloor storage and a 12V socket. Five-seaters get a temporary spare tyre (space-saver); seven-seaters get a puncture repair kit to save weight and space.

Inside, storage is practical: large door bins, a deep centre console, glovebox that fits the owner's manual plus essentials, and decent cupholders. There are USB-C charging ports front and rear (USB-A on base models), plus a 12V outlet in the boot.

Ground clearance is 198mm across all variants, not 4WD territory but enough for speed bumps, rough carparks and gravel tracks. Approach and departure angles are modest, so avoid aggressive off-roading.

Driving Experience and Ownership

On the Road

The CR-V prioritises comfort over sportiness, and that's exactly what most buyers want. Ride quality is plush, soaking up typical Aussie road imperfections without harshness. The suspension is biased towards softness, which means some body roll in corners, but it's never excessive or unsettling. Around town, it feels agile for a vehicle this size, with light steering and good forward visibility.

Highway cruising is where it excels. Wind and road noise are well-suppressed (the hybrid is particularly quiet), and the seats remain comfortable on multi-hour drives. Adaptive cruise and lane-keep assist reduce fatigue significantly on motorways.

The AWD system is competent in slippery conditions but doesn't transform the CR-V into a hardcore off-roader. It'll handle wet roads, gravel tracks, mild beach access and dirt camping spots confidently. Don't expect Prado-level capability, the limited ground clearance and road-biased tyres have their limits.

Petrol variants feel adequately powerful for everyday use, though the CVT's droning under hard acceleration can be annoying. The hybrid feels genuinely punchier around town thanks to instant electric torque, and the lack of CVT drone makes it more pleasant to drive enthusiastically.

Fuel economy in real-world conditions typically runs:

• Petrol FWD: 7.5-8.0L/100km (mixed driving)
• Petrol AWD: 8.0-8.5L/100km (mixed driving)
• Hybrid: 5.5-6.5L/100km (mixed driving, easily sub-6L with gentle driving)

Tank capacity is 57 litres (petrol) or 54 litres (hybrid), giving practical ranges of 600-700km between fills.

Ownership Costs

Warranty: Five years, unlimited kilometres. That's a significant advantage over rivals still on three-year coverage. Honda also includes five years of roadside assistance (activated after first service).

Service Intervals: 12 months or 10,000km. Typical service costs run $250-$400 for minor services, $400-$600 for major services (every 2-3 years). Hybrid services cost roughly the same, no premium for the additional complexity.

Insurance: Group ratings sit in the mid-range, making premiums reasonable. The comprehensive safety kit helps keep costs down compared to less-equipped rivals.

Fuel Costs (rough annual estimate, 15,000km):

• Petrol FWD @ 7.5L/100km, $1.80/L: ~$2,000/year
• Petrol AWD @ 8.0L/100km, $1.80/L: ~$2,160/year
• Hybrid @ 5.5L/100km, $1.80/L: ~$1,485/year

The hybrid saves roughly $500-700/year in fuel compared to petrol variants, more if you're doing heavy city driving.

Depreciation: Hondas hold value well. Expect 50-60% retention after three years, 40-50% after five years. Hybrids depreciate slightly slower than petrols. Well-maintained examples with full-service history command premiums.

Buying a Used Honda CR-V: Complete Guide

If a new CR-V stretches your budget, the used market offers strong value. Hondas are renowned for durability; many examples exceed 300,000km with only routine maintenance. The key is buying smart: know what to look for, understand common issues, and don't skip inspections.

Setting a Realistic Budget

Used CR-V pricing varies significantly by age, mileage and condition. Here's a rough guide based on current market data:

These are rough dealer prices, private sales typically run 10-15% cheaper but without warranty protection. Always factor in stamp duty, transfer fees, and immediate maintenance or repair costs into your total budget.

Which Generation and Year to Target

2012-2016 (Fourth Generation): Cheap entry point ($10,000-$16,000), but outdated tech, no Apple CarPlay, and older safety features. Mechanically sound if maintained, but feels dated compared to modern alternatives. Only consider if the budget is very tight.

2017-2018 (Fifth Generation, First Two Years): Modern features arrive, turbo engine, updated styling, better tech. However, these early years suffered from oil dilution issues where petrol contaminated engine oil, potentially causing premature engine wear. Honda issued software updates to address this. Only buy if you can verify the fix was applied (check service records or ask Honda dealer to run VIN check). Otherwise, skip these years.

2019-2021 (Fifth Generation, Facelift): Oil dilution largely resolved, improved interior quality, reliable 1.5T engine. This is the sweet spot for value, modern enough to feel current, old enough to have depreciated significantly. Look for 2020 or 2021 models with under 100,000km and full service history.

2022-2024 (Sixth Generation, Current): All-new design, better interior, improved hybrid system (if hybrid), comprehensive safety tech. These haven't depreciated much yet, so you're paying near-new prices unless buying ex-demo or high-kilometre examples. Worth it if budget allows, but value buyers are better served by 2019-2021 models.

Mileage Considerations

CR-Vs routinely exceed 300,000km with proper maintenance. Mileage alone isn't disqualifying; service history matters more.

• Under 100,000km: Minimal wear, likely original brakes and suspension components. Premium pricing justified.
• 100,000-200,000km: Sweet spot for value. Timing chain, water pump, CVT fluid should have been serviced. Brake pads, battery, tyres likely replaced once.
• 200,000-300,000km: Budget for upcoming replacements: suspension bushings, engine mounts, possibly alternator or starter motor. Still viable if priced accordingly ($12,000-$18,000) and serviced religiously.
• Over 300,000km: High risk unless you have complete service records proving meticulous care. Suitable only for mechanically minded buyers comfortable with repairs.

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Never skip a professional inspection. They'll check:

Exterior:

• Panel condition and paint depth
• Tyre condition and even wear (uneven = alignment/suspension issues)
• Windscreen chips or cracks
• Light function (all bulbs working)

Engine Bay:

• Oil leaks around valve cover, front main seal, oil pan
• Coolant leaks from hoses, radiator, water pump
• Accessory belt condition
• Battery condition and corrosion
• Fluid levels and condition (oil should be golden-brown, not black; coolant should be bright, not rusty)

Underbody:

• Exhaust condition (rust, holes, loose hangers)
• Suspension bushings and joints
• CV boot tears (AWD models)
• Brake pad/rotor thickness
• Fluid leaks from engine, transmission, differential (AWD)

Interior:

• Seat condition and function
• All electronics work (windows, locks, mirrors, climate, infotainment)
• No warning lights on dashboard
• Climate control blows cold (AC test)
• No unusual smells (mould, fuel, burning)

Test Drive (minimum 20 minutes):

• Cold start (should be smooth, minimal smoke)
• Acceleration (smooth, no hesitation or shuddering)
• Braking (straight, no pulsing or pulling)
• Cornering (no clunks or rattles)
• Highway speed (no vibrations, steering tracks straight)
• Transmission shifts (CVT should be seamless)

Absolutely insist on a test drive. Sellers refusing test drives are hiding problems.

Service History and Documentation

Essential Documents:

• Service logbook stamped by Honda dealer or reputable mechanic (every 12 months/10,000km)
• Proof of recall completion (Takata airbag especially)
• Roadworthy certificate (if buying private in states requiring it)
• PPSR certificate confirming no finance owing (essential, costs $2 online)

Red Flags:

• Missing service books (suggests poor maintenance)
• Gaps in service history (especially 20,000km+ intervals)
• Services at unknown mechanics (suggests cheap/inadequate servicing)
• Mismatched VIN on paperwork
• Odometer reading inconsistent with service stamps (suggests tampering)

Full Honda dealer service history commands 10-15% premium but worth it for peace of mind. Mix of dealer and reputable independent services is acceptable if documented.

Where to Buy

Franchised Dealers: Most expensive but includes statutory warranty (varies by state), often with extended warranty options. Good for peace of mind, less room for negotiation.

Independent Used Dealers (like Westside Auto Wholesale, Perth): Mid-price, usually include warranty (3-6 months typical), inspected and detailed.

Private Sale: Cheapest (10-15% less than dealers) but zero warranty and higher risk. Suitable if you're confident in your mechanical assessment or have a trusted mechanic inspect it. Always check PPSR for finance owing and use secure payment methods.

Financing and Insurance

Finance: Pre-approval from bank or credit union gives negotiating power. Dealer finance is convenient but rarely cheapest; compare rates. Budget for 10-15% interest on used car loans.

Insurance: Get quotes before purchase; some models/colours cost more to insure. Comprehensive recommended unless car value is under $8,000-$10,000.

Transfer and Rego: Factor in transfer fees ($30-$150 depending on state) and rego if the seller's rego expires soon. CTP insurance is included in rego in most states.

Final Checks Before Signing

• PPSR Check: Confirms no finance owing and vehicle isn't stolen ($2 online, valid 24 hours). Non-negotiable.
• RWC or Safety Certificate: Required in some states before transfer. Confirm who's providing it and any repairs needed.
• Test Drive One More Time: Final check before handing over money. Weird that things "suddenly" appear? Walk away.
• Payment Method: Bank cheque or secure electronic transfer only. Never cash over $5,000. For private sales, meet at bank to confirm funds clear before transferring ownership.
• Ownership Transfer: Complete immediately. In most states, you're liable for fines/tolls until transfer is registered.

A well-maintained used CR-V is one of the most sensible used SUV purchases available. Target 2019-2021 models with 80,000-150,000km, full-service history, and no accident history for the best balance of value, reliability and remaining service life. Budget $25,000-$35,000 for quality examples in this range.

Avoid 2017-2018 turbo models unless oil dilution fix is verified. Avoid 2015 if engine vibration is present. Prioritise service history over low mileage; a well-serviced 200,000km CR-V is safer than a neglected 80,000km example.

Do your homework, don't skip inspections, and you'll land a dependable daily driver that'll comfortably exceed 250,000km with just routine maintenance.

Final Verdict: Is the 2025 CR-V Right for You?

The Honda CR-V remains what it's always been: a sensible, well-executed family SUV that prioritises practicality and reliability over flashiness. For 2025, sharpened pricing makes it genuinely competitive against segment heavyweights like the RAV4 and CX-5, while the hybrid variants offer compelling efficiency without sacrificing versatility.

Buy the CR-V if:

• You value proven reliability and low ownership costs
• You need flexible seating (especially seven seats)
• You want comprehensive safety tech as standard
• You appreciate Honda's five-year warranty and dealer network
• You're considering hybrid for fuel economy and smooth operation

The standout variants depend on your needs:

• Best Value: VTi X+ at $41,900 delivers everything most buyers need, comprehensive safety, modern tech, adequate space, without paying for features you won't use.
• Best All-Rounder: VTi L AWD at $51,800 balances comfort, capability and equipment without entering premium pricing territory.
• Best Tech and Efficiency: e:HEV RS at $59,900 gives you the full experience, hybrid economy, premium audio, every available feature, in a refined, quiet package.

For used buyers, target 2019-2021 fifth-generation models with verified service history, avoiding early 2017-2018 turbo variants unless oil dilution fixes are confirmed.

In a market full of worthy SUV options, the CR-V doesn't necessarily win any single category outright. What it does is deliver solid competence across every measure that matters for daily family transport: space, safety, economy, reliability and value. Sometimes that's exactly what you need.