“Honda’s
CR-V is not only ‘socially
acceptable’
but it manages to
please most of the people most of
the time. And with prices starting
from £19,455, the CR-V can provide
secure and affordable family
transport during Britain’s
traditionally
treacherous winter months...”
WITH WINTER NEARLY UPON US, I've been reviewing several SUVs. Best
for real off-road work at the right size and at a price that is relatively affordable
is still the Land Rover Freelander range. But today the market is more about
'socially acceptable' mid-range SUVs such as the new Renault Koleos
and the market sales leader, the British-built Honda CR-V.
Whilst the Renault Koleos is never likely to become a major player in the SUV
market it does allow Renault dealers to at least offer their faithful customers
a 4x4 rather than risk losing them to another brand. Koleos prices start at
£17,995 and rise to £24,695. But the Honda CR-V remains the top-selling SUV
in the UK, followed by the Freelander and Toyota RAV4.
The CR-V excels really as a family car. High off the ground with seating for
five, a large load area and rear seats that fold down to give even more space
— between 556 and 1,500 litres — it's also capable of towing up to
a braked 2,000kg. The CR-V has become the most popular because it offers the
most for most people at relatively affordable prices — from £19,455 up
to £28,805.
Available with either a 2.0-litre 148bhp petrol engine — which takes just
over a third of CR-V sales, mainly because there is an automatic transmission
option with this engine — or the better and more user-friendly 138bhp 2.2-litre
i-CDTi common rail turbodiesel unit that only comes with a six-speed manual
transmission.
The CR-V has an all-wheel drive system which automatically sends power to the
front wheels, but when they start to slip a proportion of the drive is transferred
to the rear wheels for more secure all-wheel traction.
CR-V buyers can opt for one of three trim levels and even the entry-level SE
model has air conditioning, four electric windows, stereo radio/CD player, six
airbags and a stability control system. Next up the line are the ES models which
add alloy road wheels, dual-zone climate control, privacy glass and reversing
sensors. Customers feeling like spending an extra £3,000 or so can go for the
range-topping EX trim that includes leather upholstery, satellite navigation,
larger wheels, a panoramic sunroof and a rear view parking camera.
On-road driveability is generally first class; the CR-V is a little heavier
and not quite as nimble as, say, the VW Tiguan or the Renault Koleos but it
feels solid, strong and durable. Off-road performance is limited — it certainly
is no match for the Freelander; but it is enough for most family users and ideal
for winter roads covered in water, mud, ice and snow.
I can see why this vehicle succeeds because it gives peace of mind when the
conditions get tough and tricky. It's versatile and generally — apart from
its unattractive front snout and grille — looks pretty smart. And, at 4,530mm
in length, it's no longer to park than a family-sized hatchback or estate. The
conservatively styled interior may be a tad too conservative for some tastes
and, as already mentioned, it's not so nimble on twisting country roads. More
reasons to like the CR-V include its roomy cabin, clever double-deck load space
and strong fuel-efficient engine. Also, the mid-range models are affordable
and they're also all well made and reliable. — David Miles
Honda CR-V 2.2i CTDI EX | £25,130
Maximum speed: 116mph | 0-62mph: 10.4 seconds
Overall test MPG: 28.8mpg | Power: 138bhp | Torque: 251lb ft
CO2 173g/km | VED Band E £170 | Insurance group 12
“Honda’s
CR-V is not only ‘socially