The 2003 Honda CR-V is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine with Honda’s i-VTEC variable valve timing, commonly coded as the K24A1, producing about 160 horsepower.
Engine in the 2003 CR-V: Overview
In 2003, the CR-V entered the mid-generation refresh that carried over the 2.4-liter four-cylinder as the standard powerplant. This engine, part of Honda’s K-series family, uses i-VTEC to optimize both efficiency and performance. It is mounted transversely and paired with a front-wheel-drive layout, with all-wheel-drive variants available as an option.
Key specifications
Before listing the core specs, note that values can vary slightly by market and trim, but the following are typical for the 2003 US-spec CR-V:
- Displacement: 2.4 liters (2364 cc)
- Engine code: K24A1
- Configuration: Inline-4
- Valvetrain: DOHC with i-VTEC
- Power output: approximately 160 horsepower
- Torque: approximately 162 lb-ft
Concluding: The 2003 CR-V’s powerplant is the 2.4-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder (K24A1), celebrated for a solid blend of power and efficiency.
Market variations and notes
Across major markets, the 2003 CR-V was predominantly equipped with the 2.4-liter K24A1 engine. While there are minor regional tuning differences, the 2.4 L i-VTEC inline-4 is the standard engine for this model year.
Summary
For 2003, Honda equipped the CR-V with a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine featuring i-VTEC (K24A1), delivering around 160 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. This setup balanced everyday usability with reliable performance, continuing Honda’s trend of practical yet capable SUVs.
What CR-V has a K20 engine?
K20A (i-VTEC)
| Engine | Application | Power |
|---|---|---|
| K20A3 | 2003–2006 Honda Civic 2.0 i-VTEC ( SEA ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| K20A4 | 2002–2006 Honda CR-V | 156 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| K20A6 | 2003–2006 Honda Accord ( EDM ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
| 2003–2006 Honda Accord ( ADM ) | 155 hp (116 kW) at 6500 rpm |
What kind of engine does a 2003 Honda CR-V have?
2003 Honda CR-V Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 2 CR-V LX Sport Utility 4D | Save 2 of 2 CR-V EX Sport Utility 4D |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| 178.6" L x 70.2" W x 66.2" H | 178.6" L x 70.2" W x 66.2" H |
| Engine | |
| 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.4 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.4 Liter |
What K24 is in the 2003 CRV?
Which Honda Cars Are Powered by a K24 Engine?
- K24A1: 2002-2009 Honda CR-V.
- K24A2: 2004-2008 Acura TSX.
- K24A4: 2003-2005 Honda Accord, 2003-2008 Honda Odyssey, 2003-2006 Honda Element.
- K24A8: 2006-2007 Honda Accord, 2007-2011 Honda Element.
- K24W (Earth Dreams): 2013-2017 Honda Accord, 2015-2019 Honda CR-V.
What are the common problems with a 2003 Honda CR-V?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Paint/Trim. Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.
- Climate System.
- Exhaust.
- Electrical Accessories.
- Engine Electrical.
- Engine Cooling.
- Fuel System/Emissions.
- Engine Minor.


