Honda Celebrates 30 Years of the CR-V: Three Decades of Innovation and Global Success
Honda is proudly celebrating the 30th anniversary of its iconic CR-V, one of the world’s most successful and beloved SUVs. First introduced in 1995, the Honda CR-V quickly redefined what a sport utility vehicle could be—offering the comfort and practicality of a passenger car with the versatility and utility of an SUV. Since its debut in Japan, the CR-V has expanded its footprint across the globe, now sold in approximately 150 countries with cumulative global sales surpassing 15 million units.
The CR-V name originally stood for “Comfortable Runabout Vehicle,” a concept that perfectly captured Honda’s vision of creating an SUV that made everyday life more enjoyable and convenient. Developed under Honda’s “Creative Mover” concept—a philosophy focused on designing vehicles that enhance lifestyles—the CR-V became a pioneer of the “urban SUV” category, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike. Over three decades, the CR-V has maintained its popularity and evolved with changing market trends and customer expectations.
A Journey of Continuous Evolution
From the start, Honda ensured that the CR-V evolved in step with drivers’ needs. Each new generation introduced meaningful improvements in design, performance, safety, and efficiency. The CR-V’s enduring global success is a testament to Honda’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.
In July 2024, Honda made history once again by launching the CR-V e:FCEV, the first fuel cell vehicle by a Japanese automaker to feature plug-in charging capability. This groundbreaking model combines hydrogen fuel cell technology with plug-in charging to offer enhanced flexibility and zero-emission performance—underscoring Honda’s leadership in the future of sustainable mobility. By August 2025, total global CR-V sales reached 15 million units, reinforcing its position as the best-selling Honda automobile model over the past decade (2015–2024).
The Sixth Generation: A New Era of the CR-V
The sixth-generation Honda CR-V, introduced in 2022, marked a major step forward in design, technology, and performance. It features a refined and dynamic exterior, a spacious and comfortable cabin, and advanced powertrains that include the e:HEV hybrid variant. The CR-V e:HEV uses Honda’s renowned two-motor hybrid system, delivering a balance of strong performance and fuel efficiency while maintaining the comfort and smoothness that have long defined the CR-V experience.
Customers around the world—particularly in North America and China—have embraced the latest CR-V for its sophistication, reliability, and driving pleasure. The model will soon be launched in Japan, with a CR-V e:HEV Prototype set to make its public debut at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show 2025 (Press Days: October 29–30, Public Days: October 31–November 9, 2025).
Thirty Years of Milestones: The CR-V Generations
First Generation (1995):
The original CR-V debuted in Japan as the second model in Honda’s “Creative Mover” series, blending the drivability of a passenger car with the spaciousness of an SUV. One of its most unique features was a built-in folding table that doubled as a rigid cargo floor. The first-generation CR-V quickly became a global success, with U.S. sales starting in 1997 and expansions to Europe and Asia soon after. It effectively launched the modern compact SUV era and set the standard for what an urban SUV could be.
Second Generation (2001):
In 2001, the second-generation CR-V arrived with a larger cabin and improved usability. With enhanced interior flexibility and more powerful engines, it appealed to a growing global audience. This generation also marked Honda’s entry into the Chinese SUV market, solidifying the CR-V’s global identity as a versatile, family-oriented vehicle.
Third Generation (2006):
Honda gave the CR-V a significant design overhaul in 2006, moving away from the boxy shape of its predecessors to a more aerodynamic and modern look. Powered by a 2.4-liter i-VTEC engine and featuring upgraded suspension systems, the third-generation CR-V offered a smoother, quieter, and more refined driving experience. Its stylish, city-friendly appearance further broadened its appeal.
Fourth Generation (2011):
By 2011, the CR-V had reached an important milestone—five million units sold worldwide. The fourth-generation model introduced improved fuel efficiency, a sleek aerodynamic design, and enhanced comfort and safety features. With a larger cabin and cargo space, this CR-V delivered both functionality and refinement, strengthening its standing as a top-selling global SUV.
Fifth Generation (2016):
The 2016 CR-V represented a turning point with the introduction of a hybrid variant for the first time. The CR-V Hybrid, powered by Honda’s advanced SPORT HYBRID i-MMD system, reflected Honda’s increasing focus on sustainability and electrification. This generation also made the Honda SENSING suite of advanced safety features standard across all trims in Japan, offering drivers enhanced confidence and peace of mind. In 2018, the CR-V celebrated another major achievement—crossing the 10 million-unit sales milestone.
Sixth Generation (2022):
Building on decades of refinement, the latest generation of the CR-V has been praised for its bold yet sophisticated design and cutting-edge hybrid technology. The model continues to set benchmarks for comfort, spaciousness, and reliability, attracting a new generation of environmentally conscious drivers.
Honda CR-V e:FCEV (2024):
In 2024, Honda broke new ground with the launch of the CR-V e:FCEV, the first hydrogen fuel cell vehicle with plug-in charging capability from a Japanese manufacturer. Based on the sixth-generation model, the CR-V e:FCEV combines practicality, versatility, and environmental responsibility. It reflects Honda’s long-term vision of achieving carbon neutrality through a mix of battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
