Model tested: Honda CRV 2.0 ES Auto
Price: £21,702
Date tested:July 2007
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 79%

4x4 drivers are guaranteed a dirty look from green campaigners in our environmentally-conscious times. "Not all 4x4s are the same," claims Honda. We drove the CR-V to spot the difference.

1. Looks
Honda's first and second-generation CR-Vs were bland; not this one though. It combines chunky 4x4 styling below the shoulder-line with a more car-like appearance above.
8/10

2. Looks inside
Honda sought to combine the best elements of SUVs, MPVs and saloons with the CR-V's interior, though it's the SUV element which dominates. Quality materials are used while the controls are neatly laid out and easy to use.
7/10

3. Practicality
With all seats in place there's 556 litres available; this can be increased to 955 litres with only the two front seats occupied. Other storage options include door bins and a "double deck" shelf for the boot.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The CR-V doesn't fit the stereotypical image of a cumbersome 4x4; it negotiates corners with minimal wallow. However, it still swallows lumps and bumps in the road with ease.
9/10

5. Performance
The 150bhp 2-litre petrol CR-V has a top speed of 118mph, and is available as six speed manual or five speed automatic. Both models cover 0-62mph in 10.3 seconds.
6/10

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6. Running Costs
A £205 annual tax bill is less than most off-roaders and a 34.9mpg is respectable too. There's group 12 insurance while CR-Vs do a good job of holding on to their value.
8/10

7. Reliability
Honda comes third in the UK's list of most reliable manufacturers and the CR-V is one of its most reliable models.
9/10

8. Safety
The CR-V carries a four-star EuroNCAP rating thanks to part-time four-wheel drive, adaptive cruise control, ESP and electronic brakeforce distribution, along with six airbags and active headrests.
8/10

9. Equipment
The entry-level SE comes with electric windows, CD stereo; the ES trim features 17-inch alloy wheels, front fog lights and privacy glass. The top EX trim adds 18-inch alloys, DVD sat-nav, glass roof and heated seats.
8/10

10. X-Factor
The CR-V gives the impression of being a car which costs several thousand pounds more than it actually does, with great looks, quality build and materials – and it's only likely to break down if you leave the lights on.
8/10