What compels consumers who buy new cars to choose the vehicles they do is over analyzed and focus-grouped to death by marketers. So, many people get hooked by a single aspect of a vehicle that they do fall in love with it - and that they can afford, too.
I've never been surprised by the success of the Honda CR-V. First, it is a Honda and that means a lot to folks looking for quality and dependability. Second, while being somewhat underpowered the CR-V has managed to make that less of an issue by delivering the goods in so many other important areas like safety and family friendly design.
This year's 2010 model CR-V, one of the top choices in the compact crossover SUV class, manages to address some of its previous shortcomings by adding more power (14 additional ponies) and a mile more mpg. There still is no V-6 option for the CR-V, which makes me scratch my head because that likely would appeal to more potential buyers. I suppose when you have been successful not offering one it probably is understandable - in this economic climate - to stand pat with what has worked and, maybe more importantly, what is selling.
This year's 2010 model CR-V, one of the top choices in the compact crossover SUV class, manages to address some of its previous shortcomings by adding more power (14 additional ponies) and a mile more mpg. There still is no V-6 option for the CR-V, which makes me scratch my head because that likely would appeal to more potential buyers. I suppose when you have been successful not offering one it probably is understandable - in this economic climate - to stand pat with what has worked and, maybe more importantly, what is selling.
The 2010 CR-V, available in LX, EX, EX-L and EX-L with Navigation trim levels, falls somewhere between compact and midsize. Prices range from $22,000 to more than $30,000 for the top model. Price is less of an issue at this level because equipment levels and interior space often match up identically with competitors' vehicles. My CR-V tester was equipped with optional all-wheel drive; front-wheel-drive models are standard.
On the outside the CR-V, like so many Hondas, touts big sales and success without pushing the design boundaries. I have been critical of the bland treatments of previous CR-V exteriors, and while this new version has some tweaks to the grille, front fascia and bumper, overall it still doesn't evoke any reaction in me - good or bad.
There's nothing offensive about the CR-V's exterior, in fact it is much different than previous generations, but there is also nothing that I can put my finger on about the new one and say: This styling point really makes a statement. Possibly the lack of a statement is Honda's true statement. It sells lots of CR-Vs, so buyers clearly can see the forest through the trees.
Inside the CR-V you get outstanding fit and finish, quality materials and a comfortable cabin. My tester had soft leather seating surfaces and power-adjustable seats that created a custom seating position for perfect viewing out and around the vehicle. Gauges and dials are easily seen across the dash and the contrasting colors help differentiate functions. I really appreciated the small digital display sandwiched between the tachometer and speedometer.
The CR-V's cabin is built to be practical and functional, which is why families love this crossover. Front and rear passengers have plenty of head and legroom and the sliding and reclining backseat offers flexibility (though three adults in the back seat were just a little too tight). Parents with younger children will love the wide-opening rear doors and the dual-tier cargo area. The conversation mirror located in the overhead console lets front occupants oversee activities in the rear without turning around. Parents will get this feature from the moment they try it out for the first time.
Cargo space is impressive. With seatbacks up, cargo capacity is 35.7 cubic feet. With a flat rear seat, the CR-V offers 73 cubic feet of cargo. Possibly the only negative interior quality is the excessive road noise in the cabin.
All Honda CR-Vs have the same base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 180 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque. The five-speed automatic transmission is standard. My all-wheel-drive version operated as a front-wheel-drive vehicle until slippage was detected, at which point the car transferred torque to the wheels with the most traction. I found this to be highly effective and seamless when engaged.
Fuel economy is just average for this segment. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway for FWD and 21/27 for AWD.
I found the CRV to be a fun vehicle to drive; it delivered agile handling and just enough power. The firm suspension and crisp steering gave the CRV handling that is better than most in this segment.
The 2010 CR-V has standard antilock disc brakes, stability control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. A backup camera is available on the EX-L with Navigation and Honda dealers can install parking sensors on lower trim levels (for a fee, of course).
Sure, there are more dynamic, athletic and sophisticated-looking crossover SUVs in this segment, but with a focus on families the clear intention, the CR-V manages to deliver outstanding drive characteristics with loads of family friendly features throughout. At a base price of $21,545 to $27,745, the CR-V line is competitive and competent.
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