Honda CR-V V (RW/RT) (2017 – 2023)

Reliability score : 8.4/10

The 5th generation Honda CR-V (code name RW/RT) marks a major turning point for the brand's star SUV. It abandons diesel in the European market in favor of a highly developed i-MMD (e:HEV) hybrid powertrain, while moving upmarket with a more premium finish, gigantic interior space, and the appearance of a 7-seater version (only with the petrol engine). Expert note on Diesel: Although this report focuses on diesel at your request, it is crucial to note that the CR-V 5 was never sold as a diesel in Europe or North America. The 1.6 i-DTEC engine was reserved for specific markets (India, ASEAN, Australia, New Zealand). If you are looking for a diesel CR-V in Europe, you will need to look at the 4th generation (up to 2018) or consider importing a 5th generation model from outside Europe.

✅ Strengths

⚠️ Weaknesses

🎯 Verdict

The 5th generation Honda CR-V is an excellent family SUV, but the choice of engine is crucial. If you absolutely want a Diesel (1.6 i-DTEC), be aware that you will need to import it from a market outside Europe (or fall back on the 4th generation). This diesel engine is generally reliable but suffers from the classic ailments of modern diesels (DPF/EGR) if it doesn't do highway driving. For a purchase in Europe, the Hybrid version (2.0 i-MMD) is the absolute best buy: its reliability is impeccable and its fuel consumption is astonishing. The 1.5 VTEC Turbo should be avoided in cold regions or for short trips due to its chronic oil dilution problem.

Common issues

Encrassement du Filtre à Particules (FAP/DPF) Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 300 – 600 € (nettoyage) / 1 200 – 2 500 € (remplacement)
Privilégier les longs trajets réguliers pour une bonne régénération du FAP.
Encrassement de la vanne EGR Medium
🔧 70 000 – 120 000 km
💶 200 – 400 € (nettoyage) / 400 – 800 € (remplacement)
Un nettoyage préventif peut prolonger sa durée de vie. Attention aux voyants moteur.
Usure du volant moteur bi-masse et de l'embrayage (boîte manuelle) Medium
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 1 200 – 2 000 €
Tester l'embrayage et vérifier l'absence de vibrations anormales au ralenti.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £100 – 170
Timing chain £1 300 – 2 200 (si remplacement nécessaire, rare)
Clutch £1 000 – 1 800 (boîte manuelle, incluant volant moteur)
Complete brakes £350 – 600
Estimated annual budget £700 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.