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Honda CR-V (1997 - 2002)

ONE FOUR THE ROAD (some text hidden) --NONE--

BY ANDY ENRIGHT

Introductionword count: 158

There's a healthy dose of pragmatism about the Honda CR-V. Honda President Nobuhiko Kawamoto observed that many four-wheel drive vehicles were laden down with off road paraphernalia that most owners never bothered to exploit. Knowing that most 4x4 drivers just appreciated an elevated driving position and chunky good looks, Honda developed the CR-V and launched it to an initially bemused British public in 1997. Although it is equipped with a proper four wheel drive system, the CR-V sets out to be as car-like as possible to drive and packs in the sort of practical ideas and sheer common sense that was previously the preserve of MPV drivers. The key word here is 'lifestyle'. The CR-V was designed to appeal to those who need a car with the space to accommodate their leisure activities without the geriatric image of an MPV or estate. In a swelling market sector, it seems to have scored a direct hit in this respect.

Modelsword count: 12

Models Covered: 5 dr 4x4, [2.0, LS, ES, ES Executive and SE]

Historyword count: 144

The CR-V was launched in June 1997 at a time when the 'lifestyle 4x4' sector comprised the Toyota RAV4, Suzuki Vitara, Ford Maverick and Vauxhall Frontera. Since such cars were destined to spend at least 95% of their lives on tarmac, success in this sector was more reliant on looks and image than any rock hopping ability. Originally launched in two guises, the LS and ES automatics, five speed manual gearboxes became available on the cars in October 1997. Somewhat confusingly, an SE model was introduced in November 1997 only to be withdrawn three months later. An ES Executive model was subsequently launched in 1999 to top the CR-V range. A special edition Camel model was introduced in mid-2000 at the same time as the first British-built CRVs were rolling off the Swindon production lines. The second generation CRV was launched in Spring 2002.

What You Getword count: 178

The appeal of the CR-V was its versatility, not so much as an axle-deep mud plugger, more in its ability to iron out the occasional gravel track whilst offering car-like amenity on the road. To cater for these diverse needs, the CR-V is equipped with a correspondingly wide range of equipment. All models are fitted with standard air conditioning, power steering, removable picnic table, an accessory socket in the boot and a stereo RDS radio cassette unit. Electric windows, sunroof and mirrors are also standard across the range, as is an immobiliser and a split rear tailgate. Being mechanically similar the three CR-V models dealt with here, the LS, ES and ES Executive, differ only in levels of equipment fitted. The ES distinguished itself from the base LS by the fitment of alloy wheels, body colour bumpers and mirrors, and hard spare wheel carrier. Roof rails were also standard, as was a micro antenna for the upgraded stereo system. The ES Executive justified its extra expense with the addition of a 6 disc CD auto-changer and leather upholstery.

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Scoring (subset of scores)

Category: Crossover or SUV 4x4s

Performance
50%
Handling
50%
Comfort
70%
Space
60%
Styling, Build, Value, Equipment, Depreciation, Handling, Insurance and Total scores are available with our full data feed.

This is an excerpt from our full review.
To access the full content library please contact us on 0330 0020 227 or click here

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