# Honda CR-V — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Honda CR-V on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/honda-cr-v

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2020
- **Ideal trim**: SR
- **Target mileage**: 40,000
–60,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 2
- **Target price**: £21,000

## Why this model

The Honda CR-V is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a reliable, practical, and comfortable family SUV. Honda's reputation for bulletproof reliability means you can expect years of trouble-free motoring, and the hybrid powertrain offers a great balance of performance and fuel efficiency, especially around town. It's spacious inside, has a decent boot, and drives smoothly, making it a solid all-rounder for daily commutes and longer trips.

## What you should pay

Based on current UK market data for February 2026, a 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid SR with around 40-50k miles typically sells for around £21,000. This is a fair price for a car of this age, specification, and renowned reliability. Prices have softened slightly from their pandemic peaks, so now is a good time to buy a well-maintained example.

## Which trim to buy

The SR trim hits a real sweet spot for value. It builds on the already well-equipped SE by adding useful features like integrated satellite navigation, privacy glass, and roof rails, without jumping to the premium price tag of the top-spec EX. You get a lot of comfort and tech for your money, making it feel a bit more premium without breaking the bank. It's the trim most buyers will be happy with for everyday use.

## What to check before you buy

- Infotainment system glitches
- Occasional electric parking brake issues
- Rear differential fluid changes (AWD models)

## Running costs

Running costs for the CR-V Hybrid are pretty reasonable. You can expect around 40-45 mpg, which at current fuel prices (estimated £1.50/litre) works out to about 6.8 pence per mile. Road tax (VED) for a 2020 Hybrid is £155 per year. Insurance will vary based on your personal circumstances, but it's generally in a mid-range bracket for an SUV of this size. Overall, it's a sensible choice for ongoing costs.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Hybrid
- **Horsepower**: 181 hp
- **Mpg**: 42 mpg (combined)
- **Reliability Score**: Excellent
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2018)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| SE | £29,000 | £19,500 | 17-inch alloy wheels; Dual-zone climate control; DAB radio |
| SR | £31,000 | £21,000 | 18-inch alloy wheels; Honda Connect with Garmin navigation; Privacy glass |
| EX | £34,000 | £23,500 | 19-inch alloy wheels; Panoramic glass roof; Leather upholstery |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £21,000 | 0% |
| 2027 | £18,800 | 10.5% |
| 2028 | £17,200 | 8.5% |
| 2029 | £15,800 | 8.1% |
| 2030 | £14,700 | 7% |

Buying a 3-4 year old CR-V like a 2020 model is often the 'sweet spot' for depreciation. The steepest drop in value happens in the first few years, so you're letting the first owner take that hit. From here, the depreciation curve flattens out considerably, meaning you'll lose less money each year compared to buying new or nearly new. It's a smart way to get a well-maintained car at a much more affordable price.

Total value lost since new: 30%.

## Alternatives to consider

- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
- [Kia Sportage](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/kia-sportage.md)
- [Nissan Qashqai](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/nissan-qashqai.md)

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.