Yes, but only in limited markets and early generations; in the United States and most current markets, the CR-V was never offered with a manual transmission.
Historical availability by region
Manual transmissions appeared briefly on some first-generation CR-V models in select markets. Here is a concise look at where a factory manual was offered versus where it wasn't.
- Japan and some Asian markets: First-generation CR-Vs (late 1990s to early 2000s) were offered with a 5-speed manual on certain trims.
- Selected European markets: A 5-speed manual was available in some early CR-Vs during the same era, again mostly on specific trims.
- United States and Canada: The CR-V did not come with a factory manual option in its official lineup; automatic transmissions were standard or the only option during most of its lifespan.
Manual CR-Vs from these markets are rare today, and most surviving examples are imported or converted by enthusiasts.
Current status in major markets
In modern production years, Honda has not offered a manual CR-V in major markets. The focus has been on automatic transmissions, including CVTs in many regions, and conventional automatics in others.
- United States: No factory-supplied manual CR-V across all model years; CVT or automatic options are standard.
- Canada and Europe: No factory manual option in current or recent CR-V generations; predominantly automatic transmissions.
- Other markets: Historically, a handful of early-generation manuals existed, but as of the 2020s most CR-Vs worldwide are automated; manuals are not offered in new models.
For collectors or enthusiasts, genuine factory manual CR-Vs are anomalies that require careful sourcing and verification.
What to look for if you encounter a manual CR-V
If you come across a CR-V advertised with a manual transmission, verify that it is a factory option rather than an aftermarket conversion. Check the VIN, transmission code, and service history to confirm it matches a genuine factory manual from the era and market of origin. Be aware that aftermarket conversions can affect resale, maintenance costs, and insurance.
Summary
Honda did offer manual CR-V variants, but only in limited markets and during early generations. In the United States and most major markets, the model has been sold exclusively with automatic transmissions for decades. Today, a factory manual CR-V is essentially a rarity, confined to older imports or specific regional examples, with no current production model offering a manual option.