The First Gen Honda CR-V

In light of possibly losing my 2001 CR-V after 300K+ Miles, I wanted to write about how badass this vehicle truly is!

When it comes to practical, reliable, and surprisingly capable vehicles, few can rival the legendary first generation Honda CR-V. Produced from 1997 to 2001, this humble compact SUV has won over millions of drivers around the world with its blend of rugged simplicity, efficiency, and just enough personality to make it truly unforgettable. Whether you are a gearhead, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply someone who values a dependable ride, the first gen CR-V offers something special. Here is why this little SUV continues to earn praise decades after it first hit the road.

Built to Last

One of the most amazing things about the first gen CR-V is its durability. Powered by the bulletproof B20B or B20Z engine, the same family of engines that helped Honda dominate the tuner world, these CR-Vs are known to easily reach 300,000 miles with basic maintenance. The engineering is classic Honda, clean, efficient, and remarkably well thought out. No wonder so many of these vehicles are still running strong today.

Full Time Real Time AWD

Unlike most crossover vehicles today, the original CR-V offered real functionality in a compact form. With Honda’s Real Time All Wheel Drive system, this little SUV could confidently handle snow, gravel, light off roading, and rough trails. It might not be a rock crawler, but for camping trips and rural backroads, the first gen CR-V is more capable than it looks.

Simplicity Done Right

Modern vehicles are packed with tech features and overengineered systems that often make repairs a nightmare. The first gen CR-V is refreshingly simple. No turbochargers to worry about, no digital mess to decode, just pure mechanical goodness. The engine bay is easy to work in, parts are widely available, and repairs are often a straightforward DIY process. For anyone learning to wrench or trying to keep maintenance costs low, it is a dream.

Unmatched Versatility

The first gen CR-V was ahead of its time in offering smart, thoughtful design. The rear seats fold flat for cargo, there is a foldout picnic table stored in the trunk floor! And the tall greenhouse-like windows give excellent visibility. It is like Honda took a regular car, lifted it slightly, added utility features, and created a vehicle that could truly do it all.

Character and Charm

Let’s face it, modern SUVs all look the same. The original CR-V, with its quirky upright shape, classic Honda grille, and signature rear-mounted spare tire, has character. It feels fun to drive. There is a sense of honesty in its design that is missing in many new vehicles. It does not try to be anything it is not. That is part of what makes it so lovable. Not to mention this vehicle has so many odd and hidden compartments that make it stand out further. And of course again, the freakin picnic table!

A Cult Following for Good Reason

Because of everything above, the first gen CR-V has developed a loyal fan base. There are entire forums, Facebook groups, and YouTube channels dedicated to modifying, restoring, and celebrating these vehicles. Whether you want to keep it stock or lift it for off-road use, or mod the hell out of it, the CR-V platform is surprisingly mod friendly. It is a blank canvas for creativity.

A Legend Worth Keeping

If you ever get the chance to own or drive a first generation Honda CR-V, take it. These vehicles are not just transportation, they are time-tested machines that embody an era when cars were built to be dependable, useful, and genuinely enjoyable. In a world of bloated SUVs and complicated systems, the first gen CR-V is a reminder of how amazing simple can be.

Whether you are a collector, a budget buyer, or just a fan of well-built cars, the first gen CR-V deserves your respect. It is not just a Honda. It is a Honda that helped define what an SUV could be. Like Pokémon, I planned on catching all the colors. My first was a 99’ submarine blue but some guy rear-ended me and I totaled Ol’Blue. My current is a 01’ Naples Gold, but Ol’ Biscuit may be on her last breath. But eventually I wwill have owned one of each color. You should too!