Honda CR-V Review

Performance4/5

The Honda CR-V is available with two engine options, it is likely that the majority of drivers will opt for the 2.2 litre diesel with its 148 bhp. The alternative is a 2.0 litre petrol which still offers 148bhp but not with quite such ease. Both come as standard with a six speed manual gearbox, but automatics are also available. The diesel will be happier towing than the petrol, and is also more economical.

Handling4/5

The CR-V offers a comfortable ride, absorbing the impact of potholes and uneven surfaces and handling corners with ease. Engine and wind noise are minimal – road noise is not quite so easy on the ears but it certainly won’t spoil your journey. The car is more suited to highways than highlands; but if you have no intention of moving far off the tarmac this could be a good one for you. You will feel particularly secure and in control in city traffic.

Exterior3.5/5

The Honda CR-V is chunky, with square-ish features. It has quite a commanding road presence, but its exterior styling will probably not appeal to someone looking for something more elegant. It does come in a good range of colours though and has some redeeming features once you get inside!

Interior4/5

Simplicity is the byword here, with switches which are convenient to reach and easy to read. Despite rear visibility being compromised by fat pillars, there is no such problem with forward views. Drivers should have no complaints, with good combinations of seat and wheel adjustments. Light and airy inside, the cabin can be further brightened with the optional panoramic roof. There is loads of head and leg room, perfect for the growing family – and for their luggage, which is well provided for with 556 litres of stowage. An additional feature in the boot is the ability to crate a two-tier floor with the aid of a moveable panel.

Equipment4.5/5

The SE+, ES and EX are your options of trim on the Honda CR-V; but it is likely that most people will be happy with entry level SE+, which comes with most of the goodies you could ask for. It offers remote locking, climate control, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, powered windows (front and back), parking sensors and sat nav. If you do decide this is not quite enough you can raise your sights and get the ES which will add a USB port and part leather, heated seats. If this is still not enough for you, you can complete the package with the addition of full leather seats, panoramic roof (which, admittedly, is a big bonus) and an upgraded sat nav.

Safety4.5/5

In 2007 the CR-V received a four star NCAP rating and has, since then, added more safety equipment. It now comes complete with front, side and curtain airbags as well as active front-seat head restraints. Its advanced stability control system has the ability to stop snaking if you are towing a caravan or trailer – and the higher range models also feature a Collision Mitigation Braking System. Honda have an excellent record for reliability and the CR-V should prove no exception.

Buying & Owning4/5

Although the CR-V is not the cheapest amongst its rival 4x4s, this is compensated for by the fact that there is a lot of kit thrown in throughout the range. Neither the petrol nor diesel engines are heavily economic to run, with not great fuel or tax bills - but the latter is the best choice for the financially savvy. Both are likely to hold their value on the nearly new market.

Reviewed by cars2buy