The CR-V, which originally stood for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” was developed as an innovative SUV model the under the concept of the “Creative Mover” series which aimed to support people in creating more fun and enjoyable lifestyles. It was one of the pioneers of a new genre— “urban SUV” —that offered excellent comfort and capability. In the 30 years since the initial launch in Japan, in 1995, CR-V has gained and maintained popularity all around the world.

While expanding sales into more markets, the CR-V continued to advance in line with the needs of the customer in each era. In July 2024, the CR-V e:FCEV was launched as the first fuel cell vehicle with plug-in charging capability by a Japanese automaker. In August 2025, cumulative global unit sales of CR-V reached 15 million units.

Based on total unit sales over the past ten years (2015-2024), the CR-V is the best-selling Honda automobile model, establishing itself as an important model representing the Honda SUV lineup.

In 2022, Honda launched the sixth-generation CR-V model lineup. The CR-V e:HEV, a hybrid variant featuring a comfortable cabin space and dynamic driving with the Honda two-motor hybrid system, has been well received by many customers around the world.

The first-generation Honda CR-V was introduced first in Japan in 1995 as the second model of the “Honda Creative Mover” series, featuring both passenger car-like drivability and a spacious cabin. Equipped with distinctive features such as a built-in folding table which doubled as the rigid cargo floor underneath the carpeted mat, the first-generation CR-V established a new vehicle genre of “urban SUV.” Sales started in the U.S. in 1997 and expanded to Europe and Asia. The first-generation CR-V became the starting point of Honda global SUV models.

Second generation CR-V (2001). Read our review.

The second-generation Honda CR-V featured new packaging that further increased the size and usability of the cabin space. In addition to Japan, North America and Europe, CR-V sales started in China, expanding its position as a Honda global SUV model.

Third generation CR-V (2006). Read our review.

The third-generation Honda CR-V featured a new styling design, completely revamped from the previous boxy style to a more advanced and sophisticated urban SUV styling. The 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine and newly developed suspensions further enhanced driving performance, quietness and occupant comfort.

Fourth generation CR-V (2011). Read our review.

The fourth-generation Honda CR-V achieved a significant improvement in usability by featuring a sleek, highly efficient aerodynamic body, excellent fuel economy, and occupant comfort, as well as a larger cabin and cargo space. In 2011, cumulative global CR-V sales reached the 5-million-unit milestone.

Fifth generation CR-V (2016). Read our review.

The fifth-generation Honda CR-V lineup included a hybrid variant for the first time. Equipped with the Honda two-motor hybrid system, Sport Hybrid i-MMD, the CR-V Hybrid marked a new chapter as an environmentally-responsible SUV model. Moreover, in Japan, Honda Sensing became standard equipment on all grades of CR-V for the first time, enhancing its safety features to ensure customers’ peace of mind. In 2018, the cumulative global sales reached the 10-million-unit milestone.

Sixth generation CR-V (2022). Read our review.

The sixth-generation Honda CR-V models have been well received by a broad range of customers around the world, mostly in North America and China, based on their dynamic yet sophisticated design and further enlarged cabin space, as well as the powerful driving performance of the Honda e:HEV two-motor hybrid system for hybrid variants.