Ruling: The always practical Honda CR-V ranks low on the fun-meter, but it has a roomy, versatile interior and excellent safety ratings. The CR-V only offers one engine, a 180hp 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that is rated to get 21 city/28 hwy, but power delivery is smooth and very serene.
Verdict: The Honda CR-V is one of the best selling compact crossovers in America, competing with the likes of Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Nissan Rogue, and the new Kia Sportage, just to name a few. The 2011 Honda CR-V is neither the best deal nor the best-equipped. It is certainly not the prettiest or the most exciting to drive. It does offer decent power and handling, and good cargo space, as well as options like a rearview camera. But you can get that with the myriad other compact crossover SUVs out there and you can get a lot more style for the same money. If your mind is set on a Honda for its reputation of reliability and resale value, however, you may want to wait just a few more months for the brand new 2012 CR-V. I saw a leaked sketch of it and it looks a lot more exciting than the current one.
