Who's seen an '07 in person? First Impressions?

[jbarco]

I had the opportunity to stop by the local Honda dealer this morning and take a look at their stock of new 07 CRVs.

They had everything from an LX to an EX-L (no Navigation).

When I first saw the pictires of the 07s on the internet, I really hated the "lower grill" configuration. I decided to hold my opinion until I could see one in person. After seeing it in person, I no longer hate the looks so badly, but it still doesn't look "right" (if you know what I mean).

Nothing about the new CRV really stood out to me. It's too bland and reminds me more of a little bloated station wagon than an SUV.

I guess I'll hold off on a final opinion until I have an opportunity to go to the dealer and get a chance to sit in it, look over the interior, and possibly test drive one.

JB

[hamsammich]

I've been a proud '07 owner for three days now and love it. The styling is sharp and a definite improvement over the previous generation. The grill is distinctive IMO, and that's a good thing.

[RavenG4]

I've been a proud '07 owner for three days now and love it. The styling is sharp and a definite improvement over the previous generation. The grill is distinctive IMO, and that's a good thing.


I know what you mean. I'm a proud owner of an '07 CRV also. Just a day old. I got it yesterday. I agree with you on what you said. I like the styling and the improvements on the new CRV.

What color did you get? I got the Dark Blue on.

[hamsammich]

Glacier Blue here. It was between that or Green Tea. We went with Glacier Blue because it comes with grey interior.

[DIG 5050]

Saw my first '07 CRV EX-L last Friday, 9/29. Almost bought it. Here is my $0.02 worth.

We have an '03 CRV EX w/leather and an '05 Element EX. I was ready to trade the CRV, and the dealer gave me a reasonable trade allowance figure.

It looks very stylish. I really liked the 5 speed auto tranny, the larger tires/wheels, and the radio antenna on the roof. The radio controls on the steering wheel were something I wish I had on the 'E'. The ride was a little quieter and smoother than our '03 CRV . I didn't notice the improved engine performance, but we only drove it for about 10-15 minutes. New dashboard layout was a nice improvement over the second gen CRV. Overall the '07 CRV EX is a nice package.

But here is why I didn't trade-in the '03:

The rear window no longer opens. This isn't a big deal unless you have a dog that likes to ride in the cargo section; Otherwise it may be a like an easy bake oven for your pet. The new "slope" of the rear window cuts into the cargo area a bit as well.

Where did the grocery bag hooks go? They are useful, cost little or nothing but they are absent on the '07. We have used ours on both the CRV and the 'E' numerous times.

What is with the cheesy floor/spare tire cover? It's supported on by high density foam blocks and the spare tire. People buy SUV's so they can carry larger objects in the cargo area. I doubt that that pressboard floor could hold an 85 pound dog too many times before it collapses. What happened to the famous picnic table? It makes for a very sturdy floor.

The cargo shelf that holds 20 lbs. is of dubious value. It might hold 20 lbs. when the CRV is parked, but take a drive down a crappy road surface and that 20 lb load will probably find its way to the cargo area floor with the shelf sandwiched between. And the edges that support the shelf along the sides of the cargo area are unsightly and intrude into the cargo area. Being done a little differently might have resulted in a little more asthetically pleasing appearance.

The windows in the rear doors no longer go all the way down. Annoyance? Yes, but maybe a show stopper for some buyers.

Please Mr. Honda, when you are going to release a new generation of a model (usually at a higher price) please don't take away the old features; you might be eliminating repeat sales to exsisting customers.

I might take another look in the future, but I will keep the '03 CRV for now!

[jbarco]

Okay, I'm softening a little on my initial harsh assessment of the grille and overall look of the CRV. I went back to the local dealer today and took some pictures. I'm actually "warming up" a little to the grille layout.

[T Mac]

I saw several of them on the local Honda lot last night. It was a bit dark, but my first impression is that it looks better in person than in the pics. Sure, it's a lot different than previous V's, but this thing should still be a great selling vehicle for Honda. Now I just need to get in there for a test drive.

[jbarco]

Here's another on of the vehicles I saw when I was at the dealer today. They had it hidden out behind the service area. It was parked too close to the wall to get a good picture of the front end.

BTW, for those that don't recognize it, it's an Element SC.

[T Mac]

JBarco - same one is at our dealership too. (element SC)

[NSPaul]

I think the new CR-V is a beautiful machine, but it doesn't look like an SUV to me. I embrace the truck-like boxiness of my first-generation ('99) CR-V. It won't turn as many heads as the new V, but it's an elegant, functional old dame.

[T Mac]

Okay, here's my new take on it... Honda is trying to further separate the CR-V and the Element. You want more utility and "truck-like" use of your compact SUV, get our Element. If you want our stylish, smooth rider, get our CR-V. If you want that urban look that doesn't look like a soccer mom SUV, get our Element SC (or the Element, I suppose).

When I saw the 07 CR-V the other night, it looked sharp but I certainly could not see myself taking it camping.

[hamsammich]

I have an Element as a rental today while my door edge guards are installed and window issue is fixed on my 07 CR-V. I think your distinction observation is correct. The differences are now night and day, and I am very glad I went with the CR-V.

[spdrcr5]

I've seen a few '07 V's on the road and a friend of mine just got one and loves it. It's her 3rd V and from what I have been told it's her favorite. Unfortunately she isn't computer saavy and refuses to post on forums so she won't give her review here. :(

I like the look of the new V and also like the looks of the RD-X, seen a few of those as well.

[ycart1201]

I bought an 07 EX last Sunday. I traded in an 04 4runner and am very impressed with the CRV. No gripes or complaints (knock on wood).:)

Im really curious what i'll get for gas mileage (4runner = lucky to get 16mpg).

If i get time i'll post up pics (although it is stock).

Nathan
ycart1201

[s2000black]

I think the new CR-V is a beautiful machine, but it doesn't look like an SUV to me. I embrace the truck-like boxiness of my first-generation ('99) CR-V. It won't turn as many heads as the new V, but it's an elegant, functional old dame.


I have a '98 CR-V and it just keeps on ticking with just regular maintence. The '97 & '98 really suffered from lack of power, but my wife wanted it and so far it's been the most reliable vehicle I've ever owned.

Feature wise, I love what they have done with the new CR-V. I liked the improved styling and performance of the 2nd generation, but I think they lost me on this 3rd gen styling. I've looked at the new grille in person and it does nothing for me. I like the new Acura better, but will have to decide if it's worth the extra money. The Acura may end up being a slow seller with the 4 cyl. engine, so maybe by the time I'm ready, there will be some type of discounts (dealer cash) or something. Of couse, my '98 feels like it will go another 10 years.

[Tom Jones]

My wife and I traded the three cars we had for two new Hondas. Old vehicles were 2005 Subaru Forrester, 2001 Toyota Tacoma, 1996 Civic DX Hatchback (163,000 trouble free miles). We got her a CR-V EX-L and I got a Ridgeline RT-L. Love them both. We drove a 2006 CR-V over the weekend before we bought the 2007. Both were great, I personally liked the style of the 2006. I liked the boxie look and the large compartment. I liked the spare tire on the outside. But when we drove the 2007 that following monday....it was all over but signing the papers. The ride was much smoother. We were sold on the spot. We drove both over the following weekend on trips and actually the Ridgeline rides smoother than the CR-V. Both are Red.
Now that I have rambled on aimlessly, here is the point. You can't go wrong with either... the old style or the new. Just a matter of personal preference. I have had good luck with honda in the past, so has everyone I know who owns one.

[msmith1965]

Checked one out yesterday. Since we have an RL, our first Honda, thought I would try the CR-V to see how it would work as a daily commuter for my wife and stick to one car make. What we are looking for is a sport ute that gets good mileage but has a nice range of features.

I was very impressed with the ride and upgraded interior. The new rear hatch is an excellent improvement over the swing-out version. And it was quiet relative to the old CR-V.

However, it is sloooow. Very slow. In fact, getting on a busy freeway was a challenge during my test.

Also, you can get leather seats (heated), voice activated navigation, XM radio, auxillary ports, but you can't get a power driver's side seat or automatic climate controls.

Anyway, I took it off the list of potentials.