2009 Honda CR-V: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2009 Honda CR-V is the addition of its LX, EX and EX-L trim lineup. Otherwise, it is a quiet carryover with no meaningful powertrain, styling, safety, technology or structural updates.
About the 2009 Honda CR-V
3rd generation (2007-2011), third model year and last pre-refresh year before the 2010 styling and power update.
Honda positions the CR-V as a compact SUV for everyday life rather than rugged-image marketing. The brochure centers on a roomy cabin for five, flexible cargo solutions, easy loading, good fuel economy, and simple controls, all in a shape that feels more carlike than a truck-based SUV. Its main draw versus rivals is usability: sliding and reclining rear seats, smart storage, easy visibility, and a strong reputation for safety and long-term dependability.
The LX focuses on straightforward family utility, with a flexible split rear seat, cruise control and an auxiliary audio input. The EX adds a moonroof, upgraded audio, rear privacy glass and alloy wheels, while the comfort-focused EX-L has leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver's seat and dual-zone climate control.
2009 Honda CR-V specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.4 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 5-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 20 mpg | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 27 mpg |
| Horsepower | 166 hp | 166 hp | 166 hp |
| Torque | 161 lb-ft | 161 lb-ft | 161 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 1500 lb | 1500 lb | 1500 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 72.9 cu-ft | 72.9 cu-ft | 72.9 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 38.5 in | 38.5 in | 38.5 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Heated Mirrors | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Privacy Glass | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Dual-Zone Climate Control | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2009 Honda CR-V compared with the 2008 model?
The main year-over-year change is the addition of the LX, EX and EX-L trim lineup. The engine, five-speed automatic transmission, styling, safety equipment, cabin technology and basic seating and cargo layout otherwise carry over.
Did the 2009 Honda CR-V get a new engine?
No. The 2009 CR-V retains a 166-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission across the lineup.
Was the 2009 Honda CR-V redesigned?
No. The 2009 CR-V is the third model year of the third generation and keeps the same basic styling, platform, cabin and cargo layout as the 2008 model.
Is the 2009 Honda CR-V the updated third-generation model?
No. The 2009 CR-V is the last pre-refresh model year; the styling and power update arrived for 2010.
Which 2009 Honda CR-V trim has leather and heated seats?
The 2009 CR-V EX-L has leather-trimmed upholstery and heated front seats. It also has a power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control and an upgraded audio system.