Competition
This CR-V EX sells for $32,600, but it's not the most expensive; the EX-L with a navigation system goes for $37,400. That's lot of beans, and the left side of the brain which manages our financial situation will probably get a cramp when it will find that out.

The CR-V may seem a bit pricey, but remember that you get what you pay for.

As for rivals, there are a lot:

• Chevrolet Equinox LT 1SC AWD, $31,820
• Dodge Nitro SXT 4WD with options, $30,450
• Ford Escape XLT 4WD with options, $29,734
• Hyundai Tucson GLS V6 AWD, $30.795
• Jeep Compass Limited 4WD with options, $27,555
• Kia Sportage LX V6 Luxury AWD, $30,935
• Mazda Tribute GT-V6 AWD, $31,995
• Mitsubishi Outlander LS 4WD with options, $28,948
• Nissan X-Trail Bonavista AWD (2006), $30,998
• Pontiac Torrent Sport AWD, $32,475
• Saturn VUE XE AWD (2008), $31,275
• Suzuki Grand Vitara JLX, $29,495
• Toyota RAV4 Limited 4WD, $33,295

The Escape, Compass, X-Trail, VUE and RAV4 mentioned here are equipped with 4-cylinder engines; as for the rest, if we want a level of equipment similar to that of the CR-V EX, we have to opt for a V6. The Honda is among the most expensive of the group.

Conclusion
The CR-V is virtually flawless. It's spacious, comfortable and cheap to operate; those who will purchase one will surely be satisfied. However, this SUV is like brown bread: it's good for you, but not very exciting to eat. It lacks character and charisma. The left side of my brain applauds the CR-V for the whole of its qualities; the right side fell asleep at the wheel.


Reasonable fuel consumption
Spacious cockpit
Fit and finish


Plain looks
Lacks character
Harsh ride



High price


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux