Honda CR-V: Reliability, Owner Reviews, and Used Car Guide

The Honda CR-V’s decline in Norway mirrors a broader industry shift toward electric vehicles, where new registrations for the model have plummeted to nearly zero. However, according to data from Broom (TV 2), the CR-V remains a gold standard for reliability and interior space, sustaining a high-demand second-hand market for those avoiding the EV transition.

Why is the Honda CR-V disappearing from new car sales?

The numbers are stark. In a market where electric vehicles (EVs) have almost completely seized control, the Honda CR-V has gone from a bestseller to a rarity. According to registration data reported by Broom, only three new Honda CR-Vs were registered in 2025, with zero registrations recorded so far this year.

Honda hasn’t officially pulled the plug, but the options have shrunk. The model remains on price lists exclusively as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), currently priced at 749,900 NOK. This price point, combined with Norway’s aggressive tax incentives for pure EVs, has made the CR-V a hard sell for new buyers.

This trend highlights a wider shift: the “bridge technology” of hybrids is losing ground. While PHEVs were meant to ease the transition, the infrastructure for full electrification in Norway has moved faster than the hybrid market could adapt.

Is the “bulletproof” reputation of Japanese SUVs a safeguard against EV volatility?

While new sales are flatlining, the sentiment among owners is overwhelmingly positive. On the “Eierne mener” (Owners’ Opinion) section of Broom, where over 14,000 Norwegian drivers share their experiences, the CR-V holds a strong average score of 8.3 out of 10.

The primary draw is reliability. One owner reported owning eight Hondas and three different CR-Vs without a single major repair. Another driver, who has owned over 30 cars in their lifetime, claims the CR-V is the most problem-free vehicle they’ve ever owned.

This creates a fascinating trend in the used market. As early-generation EVs begin to age and face battery degradation concerns, “bulletproof” ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) and hybrid vehicles from brands like Honda often see a stabilization in value. Buyers are trading cutting-edge tech for the peace of mind that the car will start every single morning.

The hidden costs of reliability

It isn’t all perfect. Even with high satisfaction, some owners point to “mega-irritating” quirks. These include adaptive cruise control systems that feel unpredictable and, more significantly, high service costs. One user cited a service bill of 11,000 NOK, which they considered excessive for routine maintenance.

What happens to the used SUV market as we go fully electric?

The CR-V is currently creating a tiered entry point for budget-conscious drivers. Because the new market has dried up, the used market is flooded with various generations, making them accessible to almost any budget.

• Budget Entry: Models from the early 2000s are frequently listed between 10,000 and 50,000 NOK.
• The Sweet Spot: 2011–2016 models make up nearly half of the used inventory, typically priced between 100,000 and 170,000 NOK.
• Modern Alternatives: 2016–2020 models range from 175,000 to 375,000 NOK, offering better fuel efficiency and updated safety features.

This pricing structure suggests that the CR-V is transitioning from a “status” family car to a “utility” tool. For many, a 150,000 NOK Honda from 2014 is a more rational financial decision than a high-interest loan for a new EV, especially for those in rural areas with limited charging access.

How has the “Family SUV” evolved in size and utility?

The CR-V has undergone a massive physical transformation. What started as a compact SUV in 1995 has grown into a spacious hauler. The latest PHEV version boasts a trunk capacity of 617 liters, a significant jump from its ancestors.

Beyond raw volume, the utility is in the details. The rear seats can slide longitudinally and the backrest angle is adjustable. Combined with wide-opening doors, the CR-V has become a favorite for parents dealing with bulky child seats—a detail that often outweighs engine specs when making a purchase decision.

For those interested in how this compares to other brands, you can compare the cargo space of top-rated family SUVs here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda CR-V a reliable used car?

Yes. According to owner data from Broom, the CR-V is highly rated for its lack of mechanical failures, with many owners reporting zero major repairs over several years of ownership.

Which used CR-V year is the best value?

Models from 2011 to 2016 currently offer the best balance of availability and price, typically falling between 100,000 and 170,000 NOK.

Why are new CR-V sales so low in Norway?

The dominance of electric vehicles and Norway’s tax structure make combustion and hybrid engines less competitive compared to pure EVs.

What are the common complaints about the CR-V?

The most frequent complaints include high official service costs and occasional issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) in older diesel models.