After putting about six months of driving on my 2024 Honda CRV EXL, through both summer and winter conditions, I’ve developed a solid list of pros and cons. As someone who appreciates a straightforward and practical vehicle, here are my honest likes and dislikes about this latest CRV model.
What I Like About the 2024 CRV EXL
The first thing that really stands out is how incredibly quiet the cabin is. Honda has clearly put effort into sound insulation, making for a relaxed and enjoyable driving experience, whether on long highway trips or just commuting around town. This quietness is complemented by a smooth ride. The suspension absorbs bumps and road imperfections effectively, providing a comfortable experience for both the driver and passengers. Shifting is also remarkably smooth, contributing to the overall refined feeling of the vehicle.
Visibility is another major plus. The visibility is great in all directions, minimizing blind spots and making maneuvering in traffic and parking much easier. I’ve also grown to appreciate the thumb wheel on the steering wheel for controlling various functions. It took a little getting used to, but now it feels intuitive and convenient for managing audio and other settings without taking my hands off the wheel. The 9-inch screen is, in my opinion, perfectly sized and positioned. It’s large enough to be easily readable and functional without being overwhelming or distracting. The backup camera is fantastic, providing a crystal-clear and wide view, which is especially helpful in tight parking situations. Finally, fuel economy is significantly improved over my older CRV. I’m consistently seeing 8-10 mpg better gas mileage on my daily commute compared to my 2013 model, which is a substantial saving. And a small but appreciated detail – I’m very glad they included a physical volume knob. Sometimes, tactile controls are just quicker and easier to use.
What I Dislike About the 2024 CRV EXL
However, it’s not all perfect. One of my biggest frustrations is the absence of a temperature gauge. Inexplicably, Honda decided to omit this basic but essential instrument. Call me old-fashioned, but I like to keep an eye on the engine temperature, especially as a vehicle ages. The idle stop feature is another annoyance. While I understand the fuel-saving intentions, there should be a way to permanently disable it. It can be jerky and intrusive in stop-and-go traffic.
The vent setting controls are also a step backward in my opinion. Switching to push buttons instead of knobs is less user-friendly. With knobs, I can adjust the vents by feel without taking my eyes off the road. With buttons, I have to look to make sure I’m pressing the right one. The horn is surprisingly weak – almost too polite. It lacks the assertive sound needed in some driving situations. AM radio reception is noticeably worse than in my previous CRV and other vehicles I own. For those who still listen to AM radio, this is a downgrade. The abundance of chrome trim feels outdated. Blacked-out trim is definitely the more modern and preferred aesthetic these days.
Several practical omissions are also disappointing. The fact that a cargo cover is not standard on the EXL trim level is surprising and feels like a cost-cutting measure. The hump in the cargo area due to the reclining rear seats is a design flaw. It makes the cargo floor uneven and less practical for loading long items or for anyone considering sleeping in the back. The elbow rest on the center console is too hard and becomes uncomfortable on longer drives. And lastly, the 800-page owner’s manual is excessive. If you need a manual that thick, the car is arguably too complicated. Even the phone setup process wasn’t as intuitive as it was in my 2013 CRV, which is unexpected in a newer model.
Conclusion
Overall, the 2024 Crv Exl has many positive aspects, particularly its quietness, smooth ride, and improved fuel economy. However, some questionable design choices and omissions, like the lack of a temperature gauge and the inconvenient cargo area hump, detract from the overall experience. While it’s a good vehicle, some of these drawbacks are hard to overlook and hopefully will be addressed in future iterations.
