What is the Honda CR‑V Shower Attachment?
The first‑generation Honda CR‑V (1997‑2001) offered a rarely‑seen factory option: a built‑in shower attachment that could be hooked up to a water tank and used while the vehicle was parked. It was marketed for outdoor enthusiasts who needed a quick rinse after a hike or a day at the beach.
Honda CR‑V Shower Attachment: The Weirdest Vehicle Option Ever?
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Image: Honda CR‑V Shower Attachment: The Weirdest Vehicle Option Ever? – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The CR‑V’s rear hatch featured a fold‑away table that slid out from the cargo floor. Hidden behind the table’s underside was a small water pump, hose, and a handheld shower head. When not in use, the whole system folded flat, preserving the SUV’s cargo space. The design was rugged, with matte‑black plastic covers that blended into the interior. It wasn’t pretty, but it was functional enough to earn a few curious glances at car shows.
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- Foldable table: doubled as a workbench and shower base.
- Integrated pump: 12‑V pump powered by the vehicle’s battery.
- Quick‑connect hose: easy to attach to a portable water container.
Performance & Mileage
The shower system didn’t affect the engine or driving dynamics. The CR‑V kept its 2.0‑liter B20A four‑cylinder engine, delivering about 127 hp and 133 lb‑ft of torque. EPA ratings for the first‑gen model were roughly 27 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Using the shower pump for an hour would drain around 5–7 amps from the battery, so owners were advised to run the engine for a few minutes afterward to avoid a dead battery.
Price & Rivals
When the CR‑V launched, the shower attachment was an optional extra priced at about $500. In today’s market, no mainstream SUV offers a factory‑installed shower, though aftermarket kits exist for van‑life conversions. Competing compact SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Forester focused on safety tech and fuel efficiency rather than novelty features.
| Engine | 2.0 L B20A I4 |
|---|---|
| Mileage | 27 mpg city / 31 mpg hwy |
| Price (1997‑2001 US) | Starting $19,800 + $500 shower option |
| Top Features | Fold‑away rear table, built‑in 12‑V water pump, handheld shower head, optional roof rack |
FAQ
What is the fuel economy of the first‑generation Honda CR‑V?
The CR‑V gets about 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, which was competitive for compact SUVs of its era.
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Can the shower attachment be used while the engine is off?
Yes, but it draws power from the 12‑V battery. Running the engine for a few minutes after a shower helps recharge the battery and prevents a dead cell.
Is the shower attachment worth adding to a modern CR‑V?
Modern CR‑Vs no longer offer the factory option, and aftermarket kits can be pricey. For most owners the feature is a novelty rather than a practical necessity.
What do you think about a built‑in shower in an SUV? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Source: Read Official News