In short, the 2013 Honda CR-V uses a four-cylinder engine; there was no six-cylinder option for the U.S. market that year.
The 2013 CR-V is part of Honda's fourth generation (2012–2016) and relies on a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with Real Time AWD available on all trims. This configuration emphasizes efficiency and practicality rather than V6 power.
Engine configuration and performance
The heart of the 2013 CR-V is a four-cylinder powerplant designed for everyday driving rather than sport performance.
- Engine: 2.4-liter inline-4 i-VTEC
- Horsepower: about 185 hp
- Torque: about 163 lb-ft
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: front-wheel drive (FWD) standard; Real Time AWD optional
- V6 option: none for U.S.-market CR-V in 2013
These specifications confirm that the 2013 CR-V remained a four-cylinder SUV, prioritizing efficiency and smooth drivability over larger engine capacity.
Drivetrain, efficiency, and real-world mileage
Fuel economy and drive configuration are key decision points for buyers who want a practical compact SUV.
- EPA estimates (approximate): 2WD around 23 mpg city / 31 mpg highway; AWD about 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- Combined mileage typically in the mid-20s, depending on drivetrain and conditions
In practice, the four-cylinder CR-V delivers reasonable efficiency for a compact SUV, with available AWD for adverse weather or light off-road use.
What about a six-cylinder option?
Clarifying the misconception
The U.S. CR-V lineup did not offer a V6 engine in 2013. Honda positioned the CR-V as a fuel-efficient, practical compact SUV, while V6 power was reserved for larger models such as the Pilot and certain trims of the Accord or Acura offerings.
Summary
Final takeaway: The 2013 Honda CR-V is a four-cylinder vehicle, equipped with a 2.4-liter inline-4 producing about 185 hp, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission; there was no V6 option in the U.S. market for that model year.
What are common problems with a 2013 Honda CR-V?
Top 2013 Honda CR-V Problems
- Air Conditioning is Blowing Warm Air.
- Door Lock May be Sticky and Not Work Due to Worn Door Lock Tumblers.
- Groaning Noise on Turns Due to Differential Fluid Breakdown.
- Harsh Shift From First to Second Gear in Automatic Transmission.
- Wipers Won't Park Due to Windshield Wiper Motor Failure.
Which is more reliable, a Toyota RAV4 or a Honda CR-V?
Key Points. RepairPal gives the Honda CR-V a 4.5 out of 5.0 reliability rating, placing it second out of 26 compact SUVs. The Toyota RAV4 scores 4.0 out of 5.0, ranking third.
Which CR-V year to stay away from?
The first CR-V of the 21st century sees an increase in engine-related issues and the beginning of a series of recalls for defective airbags (the notorious Takata airbag recall). The recall affected numerous model years (mostly 2002-2015), so always check this out if you're buying a used CR-V.
Is 2013 a good year for a Honda CR-V?
Among the 507 owners who provided feedback on the 2013 Honda CR-V for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 73% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.


