The 2011 Honda CR-V is an excellent value. It’s a safe, reliable compact SUV with a price range of $9,775 to $13,378. A great option for buyers wanting a worry-free SUV.
- One of the most reliable compact SUVs on the market with excellent long-term ratings.
- Interior materials are above-average for an SUV at this price point.
- Comfortable ride with a smooth suspension.
- More road noise than some of its competitors.
- Engine is uninspiring to drive and feels weak when accelerating.
- Base technology feels outdated and is missing features found in rivals.
2011 Honda CR-V: Quick Overview
- New for 2011 is the SE model, which offers a good value compared to the other models in the lineup.
- Reliability ratings are above average for a compact SUV, with few mechanical problems.
- One engine is available for the CR-V, power is average for its class, but it still feels slow to drive.
- The CR-V ranks 6th out of 31 compact SUVs for fuel efficiency. It gets a combined rating of up to 24 miles per gallon.
- Safety is average for its class, getting a 4-star rating in government crash tests.
- The 2011 CR-V is one of the highest rated compact SUVs for a reason. A combination of a long-lasting powertrain and comfortable cabin make this a great choice for shoppers looking for a daily driver.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2011 Honda CR-V Have?
The 2011 Honda CR-V has fewer complaints compared to other years. It suffers locking mechanism and engine problems. Unwanted acceleration when braking is the most common problem reported by owners. Honda has not found a solution to this problem. Some owners have found it to be a software problem, and replacing the power control module fixes it. Premature tire wear is another problem reported, and is usually a problem with the SUV’s alignment. Having an alignment done regularly will help improve tire wear. Door lock actuators also fail and replacing them is the only way to fix the problem.
There are 12 recalls affecting the 2011 CR-V, more than average for a car its age. Every recall is for airbags, which is a common problem for most vehicles on the road today. Replacing the airbags is important since metal fragments in the airbags can injure occupants if they deploy.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2011 Honda CR-V offers great value across all four trim levels, allowing drivers to better customize their SUV. The 2011 CR-V is more affordable than other compact SUVs, available from $9,775 to $13,378 depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $21,895 to $30,095. The CR-V depreciates slower than average, losing 39% of its value in the first 5 years.
- LX is the base model. Standard features include cloth seating, 17-inch steel wheels, power windows, cruise control, and a stereo with a CD player and 4 speakers.
- SE is a new model. Upgrades include 17-inch alloy wheels and stereo with AUX connectivity.
- EX is next in the lineup. Additional features include a new set of 17-inch alloy wheels and an improved stereo with a 6-CD changer, and 6 speakers.
- EX-L is the flagship model with features including leather seats, heated front seats, a power driver’s seat, a 7-speaker stereo with satellite radio and USB, and optional navigation.
How Long Will the 2011 Honda CR-V Last?
Longevity is a strong point for the 2011 CR-V, it lasts longer than most compact SUVs. Owners can expect to get 250,000 to 300,000 miles out of a properly cared for CR-V. Maintenance is cheaper than average as well. Repair Pal estimates it will cost $430 per year to keep one running.
Very reliable. Only major problem was ac compressor that finally gave out at 110,000 miles which is expected in the south.
Very reliable. I have not had any problems with it. I keep it maintained regularly. I have only had it for a couple of months but so far no issues.
The only problems that have been found were computer based issues. This is important but it is rare and the actually working components of the car are great.
No engine problems, except for GPS does not update. But I use google maps so it's not an issue for me. Seat belt gets caught in the sievers door sometimes as it never retracts well.
Yes very reliable. I have had the car for years and have only had to bring my car in for regular routine maintenance.
Honda's are know for reliability and CR-V is an amazing little SUV. There is very little maintenance that is needed to it.
Yes it is. It had a oil consumption 1 year ago and Honda repaired it for free. Besides this, I have not had any other problems.
Yes, it is very reliable, it has no problems. This is my 2nd CR-V. I always buy Honda's, do not really ever consider any other brand of cars.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology is relatively bare in the 2011 CR-V compared to other SUVs and may leave owners wanting more.
- Base technology includes a stereo with a CD player, 4 speakers, and an AUX input.
- Upgrades include two more powerful stereo options with either 6 or 7 speakers, USB, MP3 playback, Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation.
- For safety, there is four-wheel ABS, emergency brake assist, airbags, as well as stability and traction control systems.
What Engine Options are Available?
Performance in the 2011 CR-V is average for a compact SUV. Honda built it to be practical, not fast, and it goes from 0 to 60 in 9.1 seconds. Only one engine is available, a 2.4L four-cylinder with 180 horsepower, which struggles to be reliable.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the CR-V?
The 2011 CR-V is similar in size to other compact SUVs. Interior seating is comfortable for adults, but is not as roomy as some of its competitors. Owners report the seats are comfortable with a good amount of support and cushioning. Cargo space is excellent, with 35.7 cubic feet of room with the seats up, and 72.9 cubic feet when folded flat. It has more than enough room to fit 5 people and their luggage.
How Does the 2011 Honda CR-V Compare to Other SUVs?
Based on owner reviews, the 2011 CR-V ties for 5th place out of 26 compact SUVs. The class-leading competitor is the Land Rover LR4, which is more luxurious and capable off-road compared to the CR-V. Where the CR-V wins out is in reliability and cost of ownership. The Land Rover is a very expensive SUV to own, with a lot of mechanical problems. If you need a compact SUV, the CR-V is a better choice since it will spend less time in the shop than an LR4.
A close rival is the Toyota RAV4. Both SUVs offer a similar level of quality, but the Honda is a better value. The Toyota has more passenger room with an optional third row, and a more powerful V6 engine option. Where Honda wins out is with a higher quality interior, and a more comfortable suspension. Either SUV is a long-lasting choice, so it is worth it to try both before deciding.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Honda CR-V a Good SUV?
Based on our research, we say, yes, the 2011 Honda CR-V is a good SUV. Combining excellent reliability, high-quality interior materials, and plenty of room makes this an excellent choice. Where it loses some points is with base technology that feels cheap for its class, and an engine that is not as powerful as its competitors. Overall, the 2011 CR-V is an SUV we recommend to shoppers.