Short Take Road Test
In an era of small-scale utility vehicles-those conveyances that are a step or two up from basic transportation appliances and have the SUV look America loves so much-the Honda CR-V has struck a chord that resonates louder than many. Okay, louder than most.
A Sales Success
Even as we speak, CR-Vs are rolling out of Honda showrooms faster than anything else in the vast, amorphous vehicle class known collectively as crossovers, i.e., vehicles that straddle the increasingly vague border between conventional passenger cars and sport-utilities.
The CR-V's sales record-this one nameplate currently outsells the entire Mercury lineup-is certainly impressive. But from our driving-should-be-fun point of view, it's also a tiny bit mystifying.
But Can't We Have a Little Fun?
Do not interpret this to mean that the CR-V comes up short in the competence department. Renewed from top to bottom last year, Honda's cute ute is tightly wrapped, handsomely appointed, versatile, stylish, and by the standards of this popular class, exceptionally nimble.
Consistent with Honda design code, the CR-V is a model of ergonomic efficiency-controls are well marked, well placed, easy to locate, and easy to use. There are numerous nooks and small bins for stowing stuff, another Honda hallmark.
As they are on most Hondas, forward sightlines are outstanding, even by the standards of a vehicle class that makes many owners happy with a so-called command seating position.
Sightlines are a driver's first line of defense (presuming he or she isn't texting), and the CR-V provides a better view than most others, not only straight ahead, but in the rear quarters and out the back window as well, now that the spare tire has been moved from its previous mount on the back door to a less obtrusive spot under the vehicle.
The CR-V also responds better than most of its immediate competitors, being relatively quick on its feet, with precise steering, adequate grip, and respectable braking performance: 168 feet from 70 mph, a distinct improvement on previous models.
