2007 Honda CR-V

After 10 years of running circles around its competitors, Honda’s CV-V crossover SUV is back to charm consumers with a 3rd generation effort. And while the Honda is touting its smallest utility as a full-on redesign, we’re curious as to just what nips and tucks Honda made to fend off its toughest playmates?

Designers of the all-new 2007 Honda CR-V strove to improve its already excellent image and versatility in all directions. Long the benchmark of compact sport-utility vehicles, Honda also wants to make sure that the new CR-V is up with the latest utility trends, dubbing this their new effort a “Crossover SUV.”

In English, that means adopting even more car-like features inside and out. So, abandoning a boxy figure, the new CR-V turns heads with a sportier, more fluid physique. CR-V dons a striking double grille that looks like a broad smile, and then bookends it with sharply-pointed, clear lens headlamps.

Down a side, it is the curved rear quarter window, and large D-pillar that stands out, and will be the most controversial. Standard 17 inch tires emphasize the assertive and almost coupe-like posture.

Wider and closer to the ground than before, the CR-V shares its new unit structure with the Acura RDX. Wheelbase at 103.1 inches is nearly unchanged, while overall length has been compressed by 3 inches to a very park-able 178 inches.

Our first exposure to the CR-V was on the scenic and winding roads north of Vancouver where we quickly noticed even more car-like response. The front MacPherson strut, and rear multi-link suspension, delivers fine balance and comfort. Suspension tuning seems similar to the RDX but a little firmer.

Also with its stiffer body structure comes an enhanced level of safety. Using Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering, or ACE Body Structure, the CR-V’s frame channels much more front crash energy into the side structure, away from the occupants.

Under-the-hood is the least change. The carryover 2.4 liter i-VTEC twin-cam inline-4 has slightly higher compression and better breathing for 166-horsepower, up 10, and 1 additional pound-foot of torque for a peak of 161. Unlike the Toyota RAV4 and other rivals, no V6 is available.

The CR-V has dropped its manual transmission. The now standard 5-speed automatic delivers power to an optional all-wheel drive system that Honda calls “Real Time 4-Wheel Drive.” The Real Time part is that torque goes to the rear wheels only when the front wheels slip. Stopping is again by way all-disc with ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Brake Distribution, and VSA, Honda’s name for electronic stability control.

Beyond the bolder outer shell awaits a newly-orchestrated 5-passenger inner space with a 1.3-inch lower step-in height. Centered on modernism and functionality, it still boasts straightforward gauges and uncomplicated controls.

Along with standard air-conditioning, cruise, and power windows and locks, the ‘07 CR-V boasts several new driver-friendly items. The steering wheel now tilts and telescopes. And, the gear shift has moved from its odd spot on the upper instrument panel, to dash dead center below the climate controls. The familiar folding center tray returns with LX and EX trim, while a solid console comes with EX-L trim. All models sport dual glove boxes.

Our EX-L tester came stocked with an upgraded audio system with 6-disc CD changer, and optional Satellite-Linked Navigation System with rear-view camera.  Passive safety features on all CR-Vs include front seat active head restraints, front side impact, and side curtain airbags with rollover protection.

All also include a generous rear seat with room for three and a new slide feature. The new 40/20/40 seatbacks allow center pass-through, while still folding flat for large cargo.

And that cargo is easier to load due to the lower floor, and new upward opening hatch. While many fans will miss the previous CR-V’s door with spare tire, the new hatch is lighter and crashes better.

CR-V holds 35.7 cubic feet of cargo seats up, doubling to 72.9 cubic feet with the seats down.  A stackable dual-deck cargo shelf comes on EX and EX-L. Government fuel economy ratings are also little changed at 22 city/28 highway with 4-wheel drive, on regular gas.

While firm pricing was not available when we went to tape, also expect little change with CR-Vs ranging from about $21,000 for a front drive LX, to $26,000 for the top level EX-L with Real Time 4-Wheel drive. Navigation could add $2,000 more.

Even with its all new chassis and a long roster of minor upgrades and crafty modifications, the 2007 Honda CR-V makes the cut as more “evolutionary” than “revolutionary.”

But, with consistent yearly upgrades, there was little room for major improvement. In total, this decade-long benchmark should remain so. As Honda has only made a great CR-V, even better.