It’s been about 50, 000 miles with the CR-V, so a short and sweet review is in order. Fuel economy as expected continue to be dismal -- but oh well, compromises have to be made. This is one smooth SUV. Even at 50, 000 mile, the muted hum of the VTEC engine, the smooth shift of the transmission, the tactile textures in the cabin -- all bring a smile to the face. Honda knows how to design ’an experience’ in a $22, 000 vehicle -- and this is not even an ACURA.
When other reviewer’s say " i´ll have to wait untill the engine turns a bit more ’’frugal’’ in time." -- well it ain’t happenin’......It’s going to stay at 22 MPG & at $3.70 a gallon (four litres) in California it’s starting to hurt a bit.
But like I said -- compromises are expected :-)
This SUV in this size class has by far the best handling, even better than the new larger 2007 Toyota RAV4, and of course better than BMW X3 and Mazda Tribute.
Like others have said the position of the hand-brake is convenient & the quality of thematerials are a cut above others in the class (EX Seat fabric is very nice, gray-on-gray and the seats are exceptionally firm and supple). 6-disc CD changer and Moonroof are great enjoyable features. I’m about to fit a nice GPS nav. system in the front windshield, these things are handy!
Cubbyholes, cupholders and map pockets abound. Those with whining kids can fit games and DVD players aftermarket. I’ve seen some fitted to the roof on other people’s CRV’s.
One reviewer noted that autolock-doors were missing on his but mine has them in the US market. Depends on the safety regulations in each country. Mine has airbags (But not the side curtain ones)............Daylight safety headlights are not included in the USA versions.
Reliability has been superb except for a clicking noise coming when you apply the brakes. There were a couple of safety recalls in the mail -- took them to the dealer, fixed in a couple of hours.
But overall --- smooth all the way !!!
Waiting to test drive the 2007 CR-V, due any day now -- someone post links to spy shots :-)
100, 000 mile update -- March 25, 2011
Well here we are -- the odometer just turned 100, 000 (mostly highway) miles and this thing is still going strong. Nary a hint of roughness or loss of pressure from the engine (knock on wood). Given the age -- certain things have loosened up. The seats are softer and the suspension components ’feel’ more soft. Probably will change out to new shock- absorbers at 120, 000.