The Honda CR-V is one of the original crossover SUVs. It debuted for 1997, just one year behind the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV-4, which created the modern crossover class in 1996. Since that time, the Honda CR-V has been completely redesigned twice, with the latest iteration arriving for 2007. For 2008, refinements are limited to the CR-V EX-L model.

Here is what changed on the 2008 Honda CR-V:
• Dual-zone climate control standard on EX-L
• Eight-way power seat adjustment standard on EX-L
• Power lumbar support added to EX-L
• Premium audio system with XM satellite radio now standard on EX-L

The 2008 Honda CR-V is sold in LX, EX and EX-L trim levels. Choosing EX trim adds alloy wheels, a power sunroof, chrome exterior trim, intermittent variable wipers, rear privacy glass, a security system, steering wheel mounted audio controls, a 12-volt power outlet in the center tray, a dual-deck cargo shelf, a six-disc CD changer and two extra speakers, and an outside temperature display. The EX-L includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, an 8-way power driver’s seat with lumbar support, premium audio with XM satellite radio, heated body-color outside mirrors, body-color door handles, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and a center console. The only option on the CR-V is available on the EX-L: a navigation system with a digital audio card reader and a reversing camera. Additional accessories are available through Honda dealerships.

The 2008 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine making 166 horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the front or all four wheels.

Standard safety features on the 2008 Honda CR-V include the automaker’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure, which is designed to help absorb crash energy and deflect it from the passenger cabin. Additionally, the CR-V includes six airbags: dual front airbags, side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags with rollover sensing and protection. Antilock brakes with brake assist, traction control, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system are also standard.

J.D. Power and Associates compares the Honda CR-V to other compact multi-activity vehicles, such as the Chevrolet Equinox, Ford Escape, Hyundai Tucson, Jeep Patriot, Mazda CX-7, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4, among others.
  
Ratings for the 2008 Honda CR-V
More photos of the 2008 Honda CR-V
More information on the 2008 Honda CR-V