Honda CR-V

Author: Ian Strachan

According to Honda’s publicity blurb, CR-V stands for Compact Recreational Vehicle. Which means the hyphen is a bit of a mystery. And that’s it. I can’t find anything else to criticise. Apart from a rogue hyphen this third generation of the CR-V is a very good car indeed

In its latest iteration the CR-V has been given a more rugged look, with a new, purposeful front end, new rear bumper, and chunky 18 inch alloys. While, on Honda's own admission, this vehicle is more of a "grass and gravel" 4x4 than a serious mud-plugger, it certainly looks the part.

The Swindon-built CR-V has also been given a new interior with new materials and finish and more effective sound-deadening treatment meaning this is a very quiet car.

The inside is an extremely comfortable and airy place to be, with excellent visibility all round and pleasant trim and seat materials. The ES specification that I drove has partial black leather upholstery. Clear, centrally-placed well-lit instruments and easily accessible controls help the overall feeling of well-being inside the cabin. 

Specification is good, with dual-zone air conditioning, front and side airbags, CD player, front fog lights and cruise control. The vehicle I tested also has a good satellite navigation systemas standard.

The CR-V has a diesel option, but I test drove the two litre VTEC petrol version which gives more than 34 miles to the gallon in mixed driving, and is a smooth unit with adequate power across the range. At motorway speeds it feels comfortable and unfussed.

Handling is good, with crisp steering. The suspension set-up is quite soft but bodyroll on cornering is minimal. Not all 4x4s can claim that.

The CR-V has made a good impression on the market to date  and this latest version will do it no harm, particularly with a good diesel option. It looks good, has a nice driving environment and good performance. 

The CR-V 2.0i-VTEC ES comes at a very reasonable £22.435 on the road, and that includes £480 for metallic paint.