The CR-V is one of the original compact SUVs that established the segment. Back in 1997, it was on its own with the Suzuki Grand Vitara and the Toyota

(Photo: Honda)

RAV4. The CR-V went on to be a great success. Its main characteristics included impressive versatility, economy and driving pleasure.

By the first week of November 2006 (September 28 in the US), the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V will go on sale. As with every other SUV in Honda's line-up, the CR-V is based on a solid unibody frame. The reasons for this are simple: enhanced driving dynamics and more interior room. Powering the CR-V will be the familiar 166 hp 2.4L I-4 engine shared with the Accord and Element. For the moment at least, there are no plans to include a V6 in the mix. For the first time, the CR-V will obtainable as a FWD vehicle in LX trim. AWD will optional on LX but

(Photo: Honda)

standard on every other trim. The RealTime system has been improved and will now allow more torque to be transferred to the rear wheels. The only transmission will be a 5-speed automatic.

Equipment levels, complete as always, will be enhanced with the availability of a satellite-linked Navigation system and a rear-view camera in the EX-L model. The CR-V has already proven to be immensely popular and this fully revamped version should do very well.

(Photo: Honda)

Princing is as follows:

LX 2WD: $ 27,700
LX AWD: $ 29,700
EX AWD: $ 32,600
EX-L AWD: $ 34,600
EX-L Navi AWD: $ 37,400