Is the 2021 Honda CR-V a Good Car?

Yes. The 2021 Honda CR-V is one of the best compact SUVs of its era, offering excellent safety ratings, strong fuel economy (especially the hybrid), roomy packaging, and high resale value. Its main drawbacks are a so-so base infotainment setup on entry trims, modest towing capability, and a driving feel that prioritizes comfort over excitement. Below is a detailed look at how it stacks up for shoppers in 2025.

What the 2021 CR-V Does Well

The CR-V’s enduring appeal comes from a balanced blend of practicality, efficiency, and safety. Here are the standout strengths owners and reviewers consistently highlight.

• Safety: 5-star overall NHTSA rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick (with specific headlights), plus standard Honda Sensing driver aids across the lineup.
• Space: Among the roomiest in the class, with generous rear-seat legroom and big cargo capacity (gas models up to about 39.2 cu ft behind the second row, 75.8 cu ft max).
• Efficiency: Frugal 1.5L turbo and an especially efficient hybrid (EPA up to about 40/35/38 mpg city/highway/combined for AWD hybrid).
• Comfort: Quiet, composed ride and supportive seats suited for daily driving and long trips.
• Value and resale: Historically strong reliability and excellent resale values help lower total ownership costs.

Taken together, these strengths make the 2021 CR-V a safe, sensible choice for commuters, families, and anyone who prioritizes space and efficiency.

Where It Falls Short

No vehicle is perfect, and a few trade-offs might matter depending on your priorities.

• Infotainment on base LX: A small non-touch display without Apple CarPlay/Android Auto; you need EX or higher for the 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration.
• Driving character: The CVT favors smoothness over sport; rivals like the Mazda CX-5 feel more engaging.
• Towing: Rated only for light-duty towing in many markets; if you plan to tow regularly, confirm your vehicle’s specific rating and equipment.
• Road noise: Generally quiet, but some trims/tires can transmit noticeable highway noise compared with the class leaders.

If you want a more dynamic drive, richer cabin materials, or robust towing, competitors may suit you better. For most buyers, these shortcomings are minor.

Safety and Reliability

The 2021 CR-V earned a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick when equipped with the better-performing headlights. Standard Honda Sensing includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control; EX and above add blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Reliability has been strong: industry surveys generally rate the 2021 CR-V above average, and it has been a frequent “Recommended” pick in independent testing. As with any used vehicle, run a VIN-specific recall and service history check.

Powertrains and Fuel Economy

1.5L Turbo (Gas)

The mainstream engine is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (about 190 hp) paired with a CVT, in FWD or AWD. EPA ratings are approximately 28/34/30 mpg (FWD) and 27/32/29 mpg (AWD), strong for the class. Earlier oil-dilution concerns reported on older model years were largely addressed by 2019 updates; the 2021s have not shown widespread issues. The driving experience emphasizes smooth, quiet progress.

Hybrid

The CR-V Hybrid combines a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with two electric motors for a combined 212 hp and standard AWD. EPA estimates land around 40/35/38 mpg. It feels responsive around town, and braking/EV transitions are well sorted for daily driving. Note that hybrid cargo capacity is lower than the gas model (roughly 33.2 cu ft behind the second row, around 68.7 cu ft max).

Interior, Space, and Tech

The CR-V is a packaging standout: adult-friendly rear legroom (about 40 inches), smart storage, and a versatile cargo area. Materials are solid and durable, with an ergonomic layout.

• Infotainment: LX gets a basic 5-inch screen; EX and up offer a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Comfort/convenience: Available heated seats, power driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control, and a hands-free power tailgate (Touring).
• Driver aids: Honda Sensing is standard across the range; EX+ add blind-spot and cross-traffic alerts.

While the tech interface isn’t the flashiest in the segment, EX and higher trims cover the essentials and then some, making them the better everyday choice.

Trims and What to Buy

The 2021 CR-V lineup offered gas trims (LX, EX, EX-L, Touring) and hybrid trims (EX, EX-L, Touring). Here’s a quick guide to help narrow choices.

• Best value (gas): EX or EX-L for the 7-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration, and added safety/comfort features.
• Efficiency pick: Hybrid EX for the best blend of features and fuel economy; EX-L adds leather and amenities.
• Fully loaded: Touring (gas or hybrid) for premium audio, navigation, hands-free tailgate, and top-tier driver aids.

Most shoppers will find the EX or EX-L sweet spots, with the hybrid EX-L a top recommendation if maximum mpg matters.

Running Costs and Ownership

The CR-V’s reputation for reliability, plus reasonable maintenance and strong resale, contributes to low total cost of ownership.

• Warranty (new, when sold): 3 yr/36,000 mi basic; 5 yr/60,000 mi powertrain; hybrid components and battery typically carry longer coverage (battery often 8 yr/100,000 mi, longer in some states).
• Service: Oil changes (0W-20), CVT fluid at manufacturer intervals, AWD rear differential fluid changes, and brake fluid every 3 years are common cadence items.
• Insurance and depreciation: Generally favorable; CR-Vs tend to hold value well compared with segment averages.

Inspect tires and brakes carefully on used examples, and verify any software updates or service bulletins were performed.

Competitors to Consider

Cross-shopping is healthy in this crowded segment. These alternatives offer different strengths.

• Toyota RAV4: Bulletproof reputation, strong value, multiple hybrid and off-road variants.
• Mazda CX-5: Class-leading driving dynamics and upscale interior; less rear/cargo space.
• Subaru Forester: Standard AWD, excellent visibility, spacious cabin; power is modest.
• Hyundai Tucson (2022+ redesign): Feature-rich, long warranty, hybrid and PHEV options.
• Nissan Rogue (2021 redesign): Improved ride/tech; check feature content by trim.

If you prioritize sporty handling or bleeding-edge tech, the CX-5 or newer Tucson might appeal more; for all-around practicality, the CR-V remains a benchmark.

Pricing Snapshot (Used Market in 2025)

Pricing varies by mileage, condition, location, and trim. As a ballpark, many 2021 CR-Vs trade in the mid-$20,000s to low-$30,000s, with hybrids and Touring trims commanding the higher end. One-owner, low-mileage, well-documented vehicles typically fetch premiums. Always confirm market comps in your area.

Verdict

The 2021 Honda CR-V is an easy vehicle to recommend. It excels in safety, efficiency, space, and everyday comfort, and it holds its value. Unless you strongly favor sporty driving or cutting-edge infotainment, the CR-V should be on your shortlist—especially in EX/EX-L trims or as a hybrid if fuel economy is a priority.

Summary

The 2021 Honda CR-V is a well-rounded compact SUV with top-tier safety scores, excellent fuel economy (notably in hybrid form), generous space, and strong reliability/resale. Weaknesses include a basic base infotainment system and a drive that’s more calm than exciting. For most buyers seeking a dependable, efficient, and practical crossover, it remains a standout choice.

How reliable is the 2021 Honda CR-V?

The 2021 Honda CR-V is considered a very reliable vehicle, earning high ratings from both consumer review sites like Cars.com (4.8 out of 5 for the gasoline model) and professional sources like RepairPal (4.5 out of 5, ranking it 2nd among compact SUVs). While generally very dependable, there was a recall for a potential issue with the second-row center seat belt assembly on some 2021 models, which owners should ensure has been addressed.
 
Key Reliability Indicators

• High Consumer Ratings: The 2021 CR-V consistently receives high reliability scores from reviewers and owners, indicating a low frequency and severity of problems. 
• Strong Ranking: On sites like RepairPal, the CR-V is ranked highly for reliability within its class, suggesting it is one of the more dependable compact SUVs on the market. 
• Long Lifespan: A well-maintained Honda CR-V has the potential to last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, though proper maintenance is crucial for reaching this potential. 

Recall Information 

• Second-Row Seatbelt Recall: A recall was issued for some 2021 Honda CR-V vehicles regarding the second-row center seat belt assembly. The automatic locking retractor could deactivate improperly, which might leave a child restraint system unsecured. It is important to check if your specific vehicle was affected and if the necessary repair has been performed.

Are there any CR-V years to avoid?

The worst years for the Honda CR-V include 1997–1999, 2002–2003, 2007–2009, and 2017–2019. These models are frequently cited for serious problems such as engine failures, electrical fires, airbag malfunctions, transmission breakdowns, and corrosion-induced suspension collapse.

What are the negatives about Honda CR-V?

The Honda CR-V has some potential drawbacks including a basic interior design, underpowered base engine, and dated technology features in lower trims. Some owners also report issues with turbocharger problems in older models, build quality concerns, and a noisy hybrid powertrain. 
Potential Negatives:

• Basic Interior: The CR-V’s interior can feel basic and lacks the premium feel of some competitors, especially in lower trims, with a lack of decorative trim and potentially disappointing fit and finish elements. 
• Underpowered Base Engine: The 1.5-liter turbocharged engine can feel sluggish, especially when merging onto highways or when fully loaded, and the continuously variable transmission (CVT) prioritizes smoothness over responsiveness. 
• Dated Technology: Lower trims feature a smaller 7-inch touchscreen and lack features like wireless smartphone integration, which are becoming standard in the segment. 
• Hybrid Noise: The hybrid powertrain can be noisy, particularly when accelerating or in reverse. 
• Turbocharger Problems: Older models (2017-2021) with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine experienced issues with fuel mixing with oil, potentially leading to engine damage. 
• Build Quality Concerns: Some owners have reported issues with build quality, such as corroded headlights, creaking dashboards, scratches in the engine bay, and loose weatherstripping or taillights. 
• Limited Towing Capacity: The CR-V has a lower towing capacity compared to some competitors. 
• Conservative Design: Some find the exterior and interior design to be too conservative or lacking the boldness of other models in the segment. 
• No Plug-in Hybrid Option: The CR-V lacks a plug-in hybrid or fully electric version, which some competitors offer. 
• No Spare Tire or Underfloor Storage: Some trims lack a spare tire and underfloor storage due to the hybrid battery placement. 

How many miles will a 2021 Honda CR-V last?

between 250,000 and 300,000 miles
Honda CR-V’s Mileage
A well-maintained Honda CR-V can last between 250,000 and 300,000 miles, which is an impressive feat. However, reaching this milestone requires diligent maintenance. Without proper care, your CR-V might struggle to reach the 200,000-mile mark.