1997-2001 Honda CR-V: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Whereas most SUVs use truck-type body-on-frame construction with a solid rear axle, the CR-V employed carlike unibody construction and a 4-wheel independent suspension. At 103.1 inches, the CR-V wheelbase was 8.2 inches longer than that of the similar 4-door Toyota RAV4, but 8.4 inches shorter than the span of a 4-door Ford Explorer. Overall length, at 176.4 inches, was 14.4 inches longer than the RAV4 but 12.1 inches shorter than the Explorer. A side-opening tailgate and externally mounted spare tire were installed. Beneath the hood was a dual-overhead-cam 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, rated at 126 horsepower and driving a 4-speed automatic transmission. Honda called its standard 4-wheel-drive system "Real-Time 4WD." Most engine power normally went to the front wheels, but a portion could be distributed to the back wheels when sensors indicated that the front tires were losing traction. No low-range gearing was installed. Seating for five and dual airbags were standard. Mounting the gear selector on the steering column instead of the floor permitted a narrow access path between the front seats.