Honda CR-V

The second generation of Honda's Freelander rival promises a lot, but in such a fiercely competitive market sector, does it offer enough? From the outside, the CR-V looks little different to the model it replaces, but don't be fooled by the subtly updated styling. In all other respects, this is a new vehicle.

It uses Honda's innovative compact car platform, first seen in the Civic, which gives a totally flat floor and a huge advantage over rivals when it comes to interior space. It's all change under the bonnet, too, with the same 150bhp 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine that powers the perky Stream mini-MPV, coupled with an improved five-speed manual or four-speed automatic box with a dashboard-mounted shift. On the road, all that translates to punchy performance, with a 0-60mph sprint possible in 10 seconds flat, and a top speed of 110mph.

Unlike many SUVs, the CR-V's performance can be enjoyed to the full, thanks to a well balanced chassis, firm ride and reassuring brake pedal. The only downside is the electric power- steering which, as with the Civic's, lacks sufficient feel and feedback.

By honing the CR-V's road manners, Honda admits the vehicle's abilities as a 4x4 are compromised. A lack of suspension travel, quite low ground clearance and only a part-time four-wheel-drive set-up mean it's out of its depth when it comes to playing in the mucky stuff. But as so few buyers are ever likely to explore the car's off-road capabilities, Honda is prepared to sacrifice any mud-plugging pretensions to gain class-leading on-road handling.

It's not only on the tarmac where the CR-V has the edge over its rivals, either. Innovative rear seats that fold up vertically behind the driver give a van-like loading capability, while the new model has a much improved split tailgate arrangement. Interior fixtures and fittings are definitely better than its predecessor's as well, and there is a much softer feel to the dashboard plastics and switches.

Not so appealing are the fiddly seat adjustment controls and complicated handbrake which is incorporated into the dashboard. It's a novel styling cue, but impractical and annoying. Apart from that, the CR-V is cleverly laid-out, with a neat folding table between the front seats, plenty of cubbyholes and storage spaces, plus loads of room for children in the back. Two models are available at launch and both are well equipped. The SE Sport driven here comes with six airbags, climate control, alloys and an electric sunroof as standard, while the entry-level SE version gets ABS, EBD, front and rear electric windows, air-con and a CD player.

The combined fuel consumption of 36.7mpg is much better than the average for the class, although a diesel-engined version of the CR-V is notable by its absence. Honda insists it has no plans to introduce an oil-burner, either, despite including diesel powerplants in its Civic line-up.

Overall, the new CR-V is an impressive package that further enhances its reputation for offering greater space than its rivals and impressive refinement as well. The children will love it!

The new-generation CR-V has MPV-like interior space and practicality, a strong engine and stable handling to give it an edge over more traditional 4x4s. But Honda admits that the CR-V's ability off-road is severely limited, and it's aimed at image-conscious family buyers rather than mud-plugging fans.

At a glance

*New CRV on sale next week

*Priced from