Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2009 Honda CR-V with the 2.2 diesel engine? You've come to the right place. This review dives deep into what makes this particular model tick, covering everything from performance and fuel economy to reliability and common issues. We'll give you the lowdown so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

Overview of the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 Diesel

The 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 i-CTDI diesel is a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and practical SUV. The CR-V, known for its dependability and family-friendly features, got a significant boost with the introduction of the 2.2-liter diesel engine. This engine, part of Honda's i-CTDI series, was designed to offer a blend of performance and efficiency, making it an attractive option for drivers who needed both power and reasonable fuel economy. In 2009, the CR-V was already a well-established player in the compact SUV market, offering a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a reputation for longevity. The diesel variant added another layer of appeal, especially in markets where diesel fuel was more economical or preferred. The exterior design of the 2009 CR-V is characterized by its clean lines and functional aesthetics. It's not overly flashy, but it has a timeless quality that has allowed it to age gracefully. Inside, the cabin is practical and well-laid-out, with easy-to-use controls and comfortable seating. The build quality is typically Honda – solid and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The 2.2 diesel engine produces around 140 horsepower and a healthy dose of torque, which makes the CR-V feel responsive and capable in various driving conditions. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the engine provides adequate power for most situations. This generation of the CR-V also came with Honda's reputation for reliability, which is a significant factor for many buyers. The combination of a dependable engine, a practical design, and Honda's build quality made the 2009 CR-V 2.2 diesel a strong contender in its class. In the following sections, we'll delve deeper into specific aspects of this model, including its performance, fuel economy, reliability, and common problems, to give you a comprehensive understanding of what it's like to own and drive one.

Performance and Driving Experience

When it comes to performance, the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel offers a balanced and practical driving experience. The 2.2-liter i-CTDI engine provides a good amount of torque, which is particularly noticeable when accelerating from low speeds or when climbing hills. This makes the CR-V feel responsive and capable in everyday driving situations. The engine's 140 horsepower is sufficient for most tasks, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip. The CR-V handles well, with a composed and stable feel on the road. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic and parking lots. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. While it's not designed to be a sporty SUV, the CR-V offers a confident and predictable driving experience. One of the highlights of the 2.2 diesel engine is its refinement. It's relatively quiet and smooth, especially compared to some of its competitors from the same era. Engine noise is well-suppressed, even under hard acceleration, which contributes to a more relaxed driving environment. The six-speed manual transmission (if equipped) is smooth and precise, making it easy to shift gears. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine's power delivery, allowing you to make the most of the available torque. The automatic transmission (if equipped) is also a decent performer, providing smooth and timely shifts. In terms of handling, the CR-V is stable and predictable, with minimal body roll in corners. The all-wheel-drive system (if equipped) provides added traction in slippery conditions, giving you extra confidence when driving in rain or snow. Overall, the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel offers a pleasant and practical driving experience. It's not the fastest or most exciting SUV on the market, but it's comfortable, refined, and capable, making it a great choice for everyday use. The combination of a torquey diesel engine, comfortable suspension, and precise steering makes it a well-rounded package that's sure to please a wide range of drivers.

Fuel Economy and Efficiency

Fuel economy is a major selling point for the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel. The 2.2-liter i-CTDI engine is known for its efficiency, offering a good balance between performance and fuel consumption. In real-world driving conditions, you can expect to achieve impressive fuel economy figures, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long journeys. The official fuel consumption figures for the 2009 CR-V 2.2 diesel vary depending on the model and transmission, but typically range from around 40 to 50 miles per gallon (mpg) on the combined cycle. This means that you can expect to cover a significant distance on a single tank of fuel, which is a major advantage for those who do a lot of driving. One of the reasons for the CR-V's good fuel economy is its relatively lightweight construction and aerodynamic design. Honda engineers paid close attention to reducing weight and optimizing the body shape to minimize drag, which helps to improve fuel efficiency. The diesel engine also benefits from its inherent efficiency, thanks to its high compression ratio and direct injection system. These technologies allow the engine to extract more energy from each gallon of fuel, resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced emissions. In addition to its fuel-efficient engine, the CR-V also features several other technologies that help to improve fuel economy. These include low-rolling-resistance tires, which reduce friction and improve efficiency, and an engine management system that optimizes fuel delivery and ignition timing. The CR-V also benefits from its relatively small size and weight compared to some of its competitors. This makes it easier to accelerate and decelerate, which can further improve fuel economy in urban driving conditions. Overall, the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel is a highly fuel-efficient SUV that offers significant savings at the pump. Its combination of a fuel-efficient engine, lightweight construction, and aerodynamic design makes it an economical choice for those who want to reduce their fuel costs without sacrificing performance or practicality. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the CR-V's excellent fuel economy will help you save money and reduce your environmental impact.

Reliability and Common Issues

The reliability of the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel is generally considered to be very good, which is a testament to Honda's reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles. However, like any car, it's not without its potential issues. Knowing these common problems can help you make an informed decision and be prepared for potential maintenance. One of the most frequently reported issues with the 2.2 i-CTDI diesel engine is related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF). The DPF is designed to trap soot particles from the exhaust, but it can become clogged over time, especially if the car is primarily used for short trips at low speeds. A clogged DPF can lead to reduced performance, increased fuel consumption, and eventually, a warning light on the dashboard. Regular long drives at higher speeds can help to regenerate the DPF and prevent it from becoming clogged. Another potential issue is related to the injectors. Diesel injectors are precision components that can become worn or dirty over time, leading to poor fuel atomization and reduced engine performance. Symptoms of injector problems include rough idling, poor acceleration, and increased fuel consumption. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality fuel can help to prolong the life of the injectors. The dual-mass flywheel (DMF) is another component that can cause problems in the 2.2 diesel engine. The DMF is designed to dampen vibrations from the engine, but it can wear out over time, leading to excessive noise and vibration. Replacing the DMF can be an expensive repair, so it's important to be aware of this potential issue. Some owners have also reported issues with the EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve. The EGR valve is designed to reduce emissions by recirculating a portion of the exhaust gas back into the intake manifold. However, the EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits over time, leading to reduced engine performance and increased emissions. Regular cleaning or replacement of the EGR valve may be necessary. In addition to these engine-related issues, some owners have also reported problems with the air conditioning system, the suspension, and the electrical system. However, these issues are generally less common and less severe than the engine-related problems. Overall, the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel is a reliable vehicle, but it's important to be aware of these potential issues and to take steps to prevent them from occurring. Regular servicing, the use of high-quality parts, and careful driving habits can help to prolong the life of your CR-V and keep it running smoothly for many years to come.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the interior of the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel, you'll find a cabin designed with practicality and comfort in mind. While it may not boast the luxurious finishes of some high-end SUVs, the CR-V's interior is functional, well-built, and provides a comfortable environment for both driver and passengers. The design is straightforward and user-friendly, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The dashboard is logically laid out, with clear instrumentation and intuitive controls for the audio system, climate control, and other functions. The materials used in the interior are of decent quality, with durable plastics and comfortable fabric upholstery. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, providing good comfort on long journeys. The driving position is also good, with plenty of adjustability in the seat and steering wheel to accommodate drivers of different sizes. One of the standout features of the CR-V's interior is its spaciousness. There's plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable car for families. The rear seats can also be reclined for added comfort on long trips. The CR-V also offers a generous amount of cargo space, making it a practical choice for those who need to carry a lot of gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create an even larger cargo area, and the load floor is flat and wide, making it easy to load and unload bulky items. In terms of features, the 2009 CR-V 2.2 diesel comes with a decent level of equipment, including air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD player, and a multi-function steering wheel. Some models may also include features such as cruise control, alloy wheels, and a sunroof. While the interior of the 2009 CR-V may not be the most luxurious or stylish on the market, it's functional, comfortable, and well-built. It provides a pleasant environment for both driver and passengers, and its spaciousness and practicality make it a great choice for families and those who need to carry a lot of gear. The comfortable seats, user-friendly controls, and generous cargo space make it a car that's easy to live with on a daily basis.

Is the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 Diesel a Good Buy?

So, is the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel a good buy? Absolutely! If you're in the market for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical SUV, this model is definitely worth considering. Its blend of performance, comfort, and dependability makes it a standout choice in its class. The 2.2-liter i-CTDI diesel engine provides a good balance of power and fuel economy, making it suitable for both city driving and long journeys. The CR-V's spacious interior and generous cargo capacity make it a practical choice for families, and its comfortable ride and user-friendly features make it a pleasure to drive. While it's important to be aware of the potential issues, such as DPF problems and injector wear, these are relatively minor compared to the overall reliability of the vehicle. With proper maintenance and care, a 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel can provide many years of reliable service. One of the biggest advantages of buying a used CR-V is its affordability. Used prices for this model are generally very reasonable, making it an accessible option for those on a budget. However, it's important to do your research and inspect any potential purchase carefully before committing to buy. Check for signs of wear and tear, look for any potential problems, and make sure the car has a full service history. If possible, it's also a good idea to have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before you buy it. Overall, the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel is a great buy for those looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical SUV. Its blend of performance, comfort, and dependability makes it a standout choice in its class, and its affordability makes it an accessible option for those on a budget. If you're in the market for a used SUV, be sure to give the 2009 Honda CR-V 2.2 diesel a close look – you won't be disappointed!