Car Review: Honda CR-V

The CR-V is a great SUV, but it can't cope with the demands of a day's game shooting.

By Steve Newman

Friday, 21 January 2011

Car review Honda CR-V: If you're looking for a road car with presence then look no further - just don't take it game shooting.

The Honda CR-V is not built for off-road work, but as a solid road-going 4x4 it is one of the best around.

It was built as a result of demand for an SUV from Honda and was loosely derived from the company's five door Civic hatchback, so it is little surprise the CR-V has limited off-road talents, as you will discover if you take it game shooting.

A new addition with this car's facelift last year was the addition of a five-speed auto gearbox, which works well with the strong 2.2 litre diesel engine.

It is an excellent all-round vehicle, extremely comfortable on long motorway trips or around town. It's roomy, safe and well built and you do get lots of accessories and kit to play with.

For a so-called 'urban SUV', it is one of the best - just don't show it any serious mud on when you go game shooting.

Honda CR-V - interior
The updated interior is well built, and the various controls are easy to understand and use.

Shooting Gazette likes

Practicality: The rear seats can slide and tilt to make additional space. The double shelf arrangement in the back is excellent and can be easily removed.

Spacious: There is good head and legroom, and it's easy to get in and out of.

Clever 4x4 system: Four-wheel drive is automatically engaged only when the system detects a wheel slipping, maximising fuel economy and refinement while providing extra grip when it is needed.

Driving position: The good, high driving position is enhanced by a high-mounted gearlever.

Value for money: Good equipment levels as standard means the CR-V offers strong value compared to its rivals.

Quality: Build quality is excellent and the interior is well furnished. The controls on the steering wheel are easy to use.

Honda CR-V - boot
The CR-V has an excellent boot with a clever shelving system ideal for stowing everything you could possibly need for a day's game shooting.

Shooting Gazette dislikes

Off-road ability: Clever though the 4x4 system is, it does not make the car suitable for anything else other than light mud or snow. Its turning circle is also very large.

Phone: The in-car communication system struggled to match itself with my phone.

Limited seating: The CR-V will comfortably seat five, but a third row of seats is not available, limiting its potential as a family vehicle.

Honda CR-V specifications

Visit Honda UK for more information.