Honda is a fan favorite when it comes to sedans, SUVs, trucks, and even minivans. Thanks to Honda’s reputation for building vehicles that last, drive impeccably well, and cost very little to maintain, the brand has soared to become one of the best-selling in the industry. It’s well known that a maintained Honda can easily stack six digits on an odometer and still keep going. If you’re currently in the market for a used or Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, you can’t go wrong sticking to Honda.
Honda SUVs have carved a special place in the SUV market. The CR-V is designed around the traditional desires of SUV drivers and offers incredible value. The HR-V, the CR-V’s smaller cousin, embodies that which makes a subcompact SUV popular. There’s also the Element, Passport, Pilot, and the CR-V Hybrid that make up the landscape of recent Honda SUV models. If you’re looking at used Honda SUVs, it might be helpful to examine these options and narrow down which ones fit the framework of your criteria. We’ve highlighted a couple of our favorite models to give you some guidance on what to expect or what to look for.
In All Fairness, Any Honda Will Do
Buying a Honda is like making a sound investment. We’ve already touched on how cost-effective it is to own Honda vehicles over the long term. They are reliable, great on gas, and easy to own. It should also be noted Honda vehicles retain value well over other comparable brands. The CR-V has received numerous awards for ALG Residual Value and the Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards, as have other Hondas, including the Fit, Civic, and Accord. Really, any Honda you purchase is going to be a great deal and a reliable option.
Some of Our Favorites
I think it’s safe to say that Honda is king when it comes to sedans. Who doesn’t know the name Civic or Accord? However, their SUV lineup is just as exceptional. It’s hard to pick a favorite, but we’ve decided to highlight a couple of options we think you should look for. Even if you can’t find these exact model years, something within range will still provide most of the same options and perks.
2021 Honda CR-V
There’s no such thing as saying too many good things about the Honda CR-V. One of the most sought-after models in its segment, the Honda CR-V delivers fun, fuel efficiency, and comfort. We like the 2021 lineup for its infotainment system, impeccable handling, and economic powertrain. This crossover delivers plenty of value. It’s got the best-in-class fuel efficiency and top-notch safety rating, so you can feel confident you’re picking a vehicle that will meet the needs of you and your family.
The 2021 CR-V lineup includes eight great trim levels, three of which can be equipped with hybrid powertrains. This engine measures 2.0L V-4 with two electric motors for a combined output of 212 horsepower. The hybrid has an EPA-estimated 40 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. However, even the non-hybrid configurations deliver generous fuel economy. The base 1.5L turbocharged engine delivers an EPA-estimated 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), a signature of Honda, delivers a seamless ride every single time.
2019 Honda Pilot
If you’re shopping for a three-row SUV, the 2019 Honda Pilot has you covered. The spacious interior, safety tech, and powerful V6 engine make the Honda Pilot an ideal family vehicle. Trade the minivan for this refreshing three-row crossover, and never feel the minivan dullness again. While the Pilot was inspired, in part, by the Honda Odyssey, it puts a stylish spin on a passenger-friendly large SUV. The 2019 Pilot offers plenty of flair, including modern infotainment features, generous cargo space, and impressive safety ratings.
The 2019 Honda Pilot was manufactured in five trim levels, including the LX, ES, EX-L, Touring, and Elite. Most of these trim levels come with standard front-wheel drive, but an all-wheel drive setup is available. If you need a vehicle that offers entertainment for the little ones, the Pilot is just the SUV. Its roomy interior has about 84 cubic feet of space, comfortably fitting up to seven or eight passengers, depending on your second-row configuration. There is an available DVD entertainment center with video streaming to keep your passengers busy while you concentrate on the road. The dashboard features an intuitive layout that lets you control the climate in different areas of the Pilot. The 2019 models include a newly installed volume knob directly onto the touchscreen that had previously been in a less convenient location. The Pilot also includes some fun features that you may not have considered, including an impressive 16 cup holders.
Understanding that a lot of those drawn to the Pilot are probably looking for a family vehicle, it’s important to point out that the Pilot is loaded with safety and driver assistance technologies. With a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2019 Honda Pilot is a vehicle you can drive with confidence. It comes standard with forward collision alert with automatic braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
2020 Honda HR-V
If you want the roomy feel of an SUV, the maneuverability of a compact, and the fun of a sporty sedan, the 2020 Honda HR-V is an excellent choice. This subcompact SUV has an easily collapsible backseat, extending your cargo space for bigger items. The HR-V is zippy and handles well without sacrificing any fuel efficiency. The 2020 HR-V is available in five trim levels, including LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring.
No matter the trim level, every 2020 HR-V comes with an economic powertrain and is full of value. The engine is a 1.8L four-cylinder with Eco Assist and Active Noise Cancellation that fosters a peaceful interior. Higher-level trims offer upscale touches like heated seats, a side view camera, a moonroof, and more, but even the base-level HR-V comes with convenient features like remote keyless entry, push-button start, and a touchscreen infotainment center that’s compatible with all your favorite devices. This subcompact SUV is incredibly affordable and retains its value well, even after a few years on the market.
Like the other SUVs featured in this lineup, the 2020 HR-V receives honors for its suite of safety features. The 2020 Honda HR-V earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
Reliable SUVs for Everyone
While the CR-V, Pilot, and HR-V have individual differences, collectively, they’re all excellent investments. When you’re looking for your next vehicle, the Honda lineup has plenty to offer. The reliability, value, and comfort of Honda vehicles are unmatched. Honda has earned its reputation by continuously building capable vehicles that are well-engineered and stay on the road longer than many of its competitors.
As a brand, Honda continues to produce some of the top-selling sedans, SUVs, and trucks available in today’s automotive landscape. Its selection of SUVs is some of the most sought-after, year after year. If you’re unfamiliar with the CR-V, Pilot, and HR-V, there has never been a better time to explore these options. They bring a lot of quality features to the table and make for a great investment in the long term. At the end of the day, you’ll be happy you went with a Honda.
