Honda’s ‘soft roader’ the CR-V was facelifted for 2010. Already quite a handsome vehicle, Honda have used a light touch, making just a few aesthetic modifications.
The most significant change is the introduction of an automatic option for the diesel engine. The 148 bhp, four-cylinder, 2.2 litre diesel unit is smooth and quiet but its power levels could only be described as adequate. Zero-62mph takes 10.6 seconds, but in practice it never feels even as fast as this the five-speed auto transmission needs to drop a gear for overtaking manoeuvres.
Generally, I prefer automatics in large 4x4s, but this isn’t one of the better units it could do with being six-speed so I’d save money and go for the manual transmission.
Manual CR-V owners also enjoy 5mpg more fuel economy (the auto does 38.2mpg) and emissions of 171g/km, compared to 191 for the auto.
While it doesn’t have an over-abundance of power, the driving experience is otherwise very good. There’s very little body roll, and the CR-V handles better and feels more nimble than a big SUV has any right to.
Honda have improved the sound insulation, and apart from a bit of tyre roar it’s nice and quiet.
There’s plenty of room inside, although the tallest of drivers will find the front seat doesn’t go back quite far enough. Access is good all round, however, all the materials are extremely high quality and the large boot makes mincemeat out of most of its rivals.
There’s a fixed middle shelf, for stacking items so they don’t roll around everywhere, which can be easily removed when needed.
My top-spec EX model came with electric seats, reversing camera, sat nav, panoramic glass roof and all the other gizmos you’d expect. It’s a technological feast, and my only gripe is that the stereo buttons are too small and fiddly to find without taking your eyes off the road.
Speaking of off-roading, Honda make no bones about the fact the CR-V is designed for gentle mud-plugging only. Don’t expect it to win a game of follow-the-leader with a Land Rover.
That said, I had it down on the sand when setting up a beach volleyball tournament in St Andrews, and it displayed every bit as much traction as if it was being driven on tarmac.
The range starts at £20,905, but my test car with the diesel engine, automatic gearbox, leather upholstery and all the trimmings weighed in at a hefty £30,950. Ouch!
It’s a capable, good-looking car I have very few complaints about. But it’s too expensive. The top-spec Kia Sorento I had recently look out for a road test soon was bigger, as comprehensively equipped, and had just as good ride quality, though didn’t handle as well as the Honda does. It also cost £5000 less.
I like the CR-V, but if it was my own money, I’m not sure I could justify writing a cheque for over £30,000.
Price: £30,950.0-62mph: 10.6 seconds.Top speed: 116mph.Economy: 38.2mpg.CO2 emissions: 195g/km.