Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover utility vehicle that, at least at its inception, offers the styling and stance of a sport-utility vehicle with car-based underpinnings (originally borrowed from the Civic) that make it better suited for the city. Offering a choice of front- or all-wheel drive, the CR-V was one of the first of a class that grew to include the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Ford Escape, and in more recent years the Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Tucson, and Volkswagen Tiguan, among others.

Over its three quite different generations, the CR-V has evolved from a softer—but still very basic—alternative to truckier vehicles like the Suzuki Sidekick or Jeep Wrangler into more of a family-oriented people-mover. The second-generation CR-V, sold from 2002 on, was a significant improvement in nearly every way—much more refined, responsive, and comfortable. These models all have a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, making about 160 hp, with most of them hooked up to a four- or five-speed automatic transmission (a five-speed manual was also offered).

For 2007, Honda completely redesigned the CR-V again, with this generation quite a bit more passenger-focused than the previous generation. The interior design became more advanced and well-appointed, but not everyone has warmed to the exterior, which remains essentially the same for 2010. This time, the CR-V is only offered with an automatic transmission and a 166-hp, 2.4-liter four, in basic LX and more luxurious EX and EX-L trims. Some tech features, like a nav system, are offered, but sound-connectivity is a bit behind the curve and Bluetooth hands-free is only found at the top of the model line.

One odd attribute of the first- and second-generation CR-V models it the externally mounted spare wheel and tire. For the 2007 redesign, Honda did finally move it away from the rear hatch.

Across all three generations of the CR-V, the car-based handling of the CR-V make it nimble and maneuverable, though quite softly sprung. At less than 180 inches long, the CR-V is more than a foot shorter than a typical mid-size sedan. Earlier generations have excellent outward visibility, though the more curved roofline of the latest model can impair rearward sightlines.

Safety has generally been a plus for the CR-V. In a mid-cycle refresh for 2005, Honda increased safety content, making side airbags and anti-lock brakes standard across the line, increasing that CR-V's IIHS side-impact results from a mediocre 'marginal' to the top 'good' result. Otherwise the CR-V's results in federal government crash tests have been excellent.

The 2011 Honda CR-V isn't expected to be much different than the 2010, but it's due for a mid-cycle refresh in 2012.