I am looking to buy a CRV for my daughter, and based on budget, I’m likely looking at 2015-2020. Of these years, which are the best reliability and longevity? Any years I should avoid?

 

You are lumping in multi generations so that would be hard to compare.

Additionally, 2020 is the first NA year for Hybrids, a totally different animal.

My 1st suggestion is to shy away from 1st year of production. That would eliminate the 2017 MY and 2020 Hybrid.

Based on general info available regarding oil dilution and head gasket issues, I would shy away from any pre-owned turbocharged GDI engines (1.5L) unless you can find one that is low miles and have service records that show the oil was changed at no more than 5,000mi intervals.

Unfortunately all of your choices except for the hybrid have CVT’s. That is ok for Hondas provided a drain & fill was done at 30k mile intervals (not a flush).

A clean one owner 2.4K with documented CVT service would be my first choice along with maintenance education for the youngin.

YMMV

 

Thanks for the information. How common is the issue with the turbocharged GDI engines (1.5L)? We are looking at a CRV for her because she had a 2015 Hyundai Sonata and suffered the oil consumption issues with that vehicle, so the last thing I want is another vehicle that has oil issues.

 

Do your homework, make your own call.

You can start here:
https://www.crvownersclub.com/posts/1701021/

and here:
https://www.crvownersclub.com/posts/1851028/