2009 Honda CR-V

At TuningTruck.com, editors drove the Honda CR-V and put it through the paces in the way that a compact-utility owner would. Then TuningTruck.com read reviews relevant to the 2009 Honda CR-V from across the Web to bring you the most comprehensive advice of all.

Likes:

Simple, attractive interior

Fuel efficiency

Smooth, refined powertrain

Overall safety

Dislikes:

Exterior styling awkward to some

Back pillar obscures rearward vision

Transmission sometimes reluctant to downshift

Completely redesigned for 2007, the Honda CR-V features a rather compact exterior paired with a very roomy interior design that makes the most of available space. Unlike the Pilot, the smaller 2009 Honda CR-V has only two rows of seating.

With its arcs and creases, the exterior styling of the 2009 Honda CR-V is a little fussy—or just plain weird—from some angles, but inside it’s more universally attractive, with an instrument panel that’s upright, if a bit trucklike, and nicely contrasting materials and brightwork. The backseat area of the 2009 Honda CR-V folds down to a completely flat loading floor and a cargo area that’s quite expansive, thanks to the tall body. The hatch opens upward, rather than to the side. The shifter is located at the bottom of the dash, in the center, instead of on the steering column or between the front seats—so it feels more spacious in front.

While competitors offer available V-6 engines, a four-cylinder engine is the only one in the 2009 Honda CR-V, but the 166-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces adequate power and feels quite refined with the smooth-shifting five-speed automatic, although we find it reluctant to downshift for steep grades. Fuel efficiency is admirable; EPA highway estimates for the 2009 Honda CR-V range up to 27 mpg. An improved all-wheel-drive system is available, and it works with the stability control system to send power to the wheels where it’s needed most. Handling feels stable but not very sporty; the emphasis is clearly on comfort and quiet.

Shoppers will be thrilled to hear that the 2009 Honda CR-V gets five-star ratings for frontal and side impact in the federal government’s crash tests, as well as straight “good” ratings—the best—from the IIHS, which made the CR-V one of its 2009 Top Safety Picks. Safety features are a priority for frugal and pragmatic shoppers who might consider the Honda CR-V; it includes electronic stability control, front side airbags, and side curtain airbags as standard. Anti-lock brakes are also included.

The top-of-the-line EX-L adds many desirable features, such as dual-zone climate control, a power driver’s seat, and a premium audio system; a navigation system and backup camera are optional.

The Bottom Line: The 2009 Honda CR-V is a clear winner for those seeking security and utility at a good price, provided hip styling or street cred isn’t near the top of the list.

Other Choices:

If you like the 2009 Honda CR-V, also consider:

- Toyota RAV4

- Subaru Forester

- Hyundai Tucson

- Kia Sportage

- Saturn Vue

Reason Why:

The 2009 Honda CR-V, along with most of these rivals, offer city-friendly maneuverability, a carlike ride, and reasonably good fuel efficiency. The Toyota RAV4 provides a plusher ride, and it’s the only one in this crowd with an available third-row seat. Unlike several competitors to the Honda CR-V, including the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage, the RAV4′s steering wheel tilts and telescopes. The Subaru Forester feels a bit sportier than the rest, and it comes with standard all-wheel drive. If you want a manual transmission, you’ll need to look to the Sportage, Tucson, or Forester.

Buying Tip

If you like the CR-V’s size but have a bigger budget and want more performance, check out the turbocharged Acura RDX.