2017 Honda CR-V Cargo Space: Real-World Capacity Compared to Top Rivals
When shopping for a compact SUV, cargo specifications often don't tell the full story. MotorVero conducted hands-on testing with the 2017 Honda CR-V and six competing models to reveal which vehicles truly deliver the most usable space for your gear, luggage, and everyday items.
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Beyond the Numbers: How We Tested Real-World Cargo Capacity
Manufacturer cargo volume figures (39.2 cubic feet behind seats, 75.8 cubic feet with seats folded in the CR-V) can be misleading without context. Our evaluation used standardized items to create an apples-to-apples comparison across these popular models:
- 2017 Honda CR-V
- 2018 Chevrolet Equinox
- 2017 Ford Escape
- 2017 Jeep Compass
- 2017 Mazda CX-5
- 2017.5 Nissan Rogue
- 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan
We loaded each vehicle with identical items including a 23-inch adult bicycle, two golf bags, and adjustable cardboard boxes in two configurations:
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Test Cargo Dimensions
- Compact configuration: 37"L × 6"W × 41"H (behind rear seats)
- Expanded configuration: 70"L × 6"W × 41"H (with seats folded)
The 2017 Honda CR-V's Cargo Area: Strengths and Limitations
The CR-V excelled in several practical aspects that go beyond raw measurements:
- Ergonomic design: Low 28.5" load floor height makes lifting heavy items easier
- Smart features: Cargo-area levers for one-touch seat folding
- Flat floor: No awkward bumps or transitions when seats are folded
- Wide opening: 42.5" between wheel wells accommodates bulky items
However, our testing revealed one limitation - the fixed rear seats (unlike the sliding seats in the Rogue and Tiguan) meant the CR-V couldn't quite accommodate our large test box behind the second row, while the Tiguan managed this feat.
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Head-to-Head: How Competitors Compared
Our side-by-side evaluation uncovered significant differences in how these similarly-sized SUVs handle real cargo:
| Model | Bicycle Fit | Large Box Fit (seats up) | Golf Bags + Boxes (seats down) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Honda CR-V | Excellent | Nearly fit | Perfect fit |
| 2018 VW Tiguan | Good | Fit completely | Perfect fit |
| 2017.5 Nissan Rogue | Fair | Nearly fit | Good fit |
The CR-V's thoughtful design elements gave it an edge in daily usability despite slightly less maximum capacity than some rivals. The wide, square-shaped cargo area proved more practical for real items than some competitors with tapered designs.
What Buyers Should Know About SUV Cargo Space
Through our testing, we identified three crucial factors that specs sheets don't show:
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Key Practical Considerations
- Shape matters more than volume: A well-designed 35 cu. ft. can outperform a poorly configured 40 cu. ft. space
- Load height impacts usability: The CR-V's low liftover reduces back strain when loading heavy items
- Flexibility beats raw space: Features like sliding seats (Tiguan/Rogue) or fold-flat front passenger seats (Escape) add unexpected versatility
Who Should Choose the 2017 CR-V for Cargo Needs?
The CR-V's cargo area shines for these specific use cases:
- Frequent grocery shoppers: The dual-level cargo floor keeps bags upright
- DIY home improvers: Fits 8-ft lumber with front passenger seat folded
- Pet owners: Low load height helps dogs enter easily
- Road trippers: Smart storage cubbies add organization
However, buyers who regularly transport very tall items may prefer the Tiguan's taller cargo area, while those needing maximum configurability might favor the Rogue's sliding seats.
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Current Market Availability
While the 2017 CR-V remains popular on the used market, newer models offer even more space. Here's what shoppers can expect:
Used 2017 Honda CR-V LX
Average mileage: ~65,000 | Price range: $18,000-$22,000
Used 2017 Honda CR-V EX
Average mileage: ~80,000 | Price range: $20,000-$24,000
