Help with info/pics on '05 CR-V
 

My wife and I have decided we can upgrade her from our '90 Crown Vic to what she wants, a new Honda CR-V EX.

Now, I'll ask you kindly not to help us make up our minds about buying something else, we've (it's going to be hers, so she's) decided she really wants this mini truck.

Also, please save the SUV rants for somewhere else. I've heard 'em. Besides, there are many worse CARS to buy gas mileage-wise.

What we really are stuck on is: to wait for the 2005's or not? I don't know when Honda puts its new model year on sale, but I'd sure like to.
I can't find any pictures of a 2005 CR-V.
I find it really annoying that I can't get much on a new model a few short months from its intro. I'd really appreciate any help on changes to the new model. I'd especially appreciate pictures. Advice on buying one in the Columbus, OH region won't hurt either.

I'll be more than happy to share what I've found so far (I've added my comments to some features).


EX will have:
* Steering wheel audio controls.
* Outside temp gauge.
* 16" Alloy wheels

All other CRV models:
* New grille.
* Revised headlights.
* Integrated key/keyless entry fob (Keyless entry Remote on Key like Accord)
* Integrated headrests.
* Larger brakes.
* Side curtain airbags on all models. ---That would be really importand to me.
* ABS & VSA on all models.
* Improved AWD system.
* Possible 5 speed Auto --I read the fourbanger spins a little high on the freeway. A 5th gear would be like my car, relax it a bit on the freeway and get better mileage while we're at it.
* "SE" Model returns with body-colored bumpers, hard spare tire cover, heated leather seats. --I seriously would like leather.

I personally wouldn't buy one, but reliability should be alright, although, if they're making running gear changes for 2005, I think I'd get a 2004, so it's something proven, and not something new that you're the guinea pig. I think I'd get the step up model for the AWD, better brakes, and safety.

consumer reports magazine has declared this vehicle to be one of its top recommendations. Styling is stodgy, but reliablility and options are number one. Also these car-based suvs are similar to the car platforms they are derived from, so there is no real SUV bashing to be done here.

(then again Consumer reports magazine has declared my car - a '97 jetta GT a no-go zone, definitely unreliable, and I have driven it for 8 years with no problems whatso ever. best car i ever bought so I don't know what to make of their assessments).

I am looking at buying a small SUV as well, and have decided that the CRV (even though I don't like the styling) is the best choice. I wanted a Ford Escape, but heard that they break down after a couple of years.

if you do buy a honda and end up doing your own repairs, buy the helms shop manual, as they're well worth the money.

I also agree never to buy a car in its first model year. presumably you want the last body style that a particular car is made...so that they've worked the kinks out.

no matter what they do to upgrade the '05 model, wait till the '05's come out, then go buy an '04. You'll get a nice discount because the dealers want to get them off the lot to make room for the '05.

I drive a 2003 EX Manual and am very happy with it.
You can find more than you ever wanted to know about them at http://www.hondasuv.com/.

I have an 02 SE Sport and have had no problems with it. In fact I never had any problems with any Jap car I've owned (3 Hondas and 1 Nissan).

I've had a couple of the Rovers that Honda partnered them for in the 80s and 90s, and they were really very good.

Over here the CR-V is a very nice little SUV, so I guess the US version is much the same.

Id also wait for the new model and try to grab an old one cheaper.