L for luxury
Obviously, two-wheel drive is not an option when it comes to the CR-V EX-L. As with the EX, AWD is part of the standard equipment.

From a technical point of view, this model mirrors the other two: same engine, same suspension, same wheel size, etc. It's the interior layout that makes the difference. The EX-L features a centre console and a dual-zone air conditioning system with air filter. Music lovers will appreciate the quality of the 270-watt Premium sound system.

The 270-watt Premium sound system delivers an excellent sound, transforming the CR-V's cabin into a small concert hall!

And when there's an "L" in the name (L for Luxury, of course), there's leather seating and heated front seats. Yes, leather is easy to clean. But in the summer, it burns your backside, while in the winter, it turns it to ice. I by far preferby heated fabric seats like those of the Subaru Forester. It's a less expensive and more comfortable solution.

The CR-V EX-L is a little pricier than the rest of the fray. Several of its rivals, some of which even sport a leather interior, boast a price tag slightly above $30,000. Even Toyota offers a leather-clad RAV4 Sport V6 for a tantalizing $34,035. Honda, on the other hand, is asking for $35,190 for its model.

Which doesn't stop the manufacturer from offering an ultimate CR-V, the EX-L NAVI. For $2,600 more than a "regular" EX-L, a satellite navigation system, the distinguishing feature, allows drivers who failed their geography test to find their way home. I have to admit that the system works very well. But I just can't accept the fact that it's better than my MapArt road atlas, a very-well thought out Canadian publication that enables me to do the same for a modest $19,95. Maybe some people are trying to save face here too.


Photo Credit : Luc Gagné