Honda CR-V

* Tailgate: wind noise from rear at speed is common. Honda says a perfect seal between rear window and tailgate was difficult to achieve; most accept it as trait of the car.

* Engine bay: early examples can suffer from starting and stalling problems, although this was subject to a recall from Honda and should no longer be an issue.

* Rear wheel: 'real Time' 4WD is usually very reliable. But rear clutch can wear in isolated cases. Check this by feeling for a 'judder' from rear of the car when releasing clutch.

* Side window: the electric window regulators are known to fail sometimes, so make sure you double-check that all the windows raise and lower smoothly when you're vetting a potential buy.

* Towing hook: CR-V is unlikely to have gone off-road, but look for underside damage. If a towbar is fitted, ask what it's been pulling - it can't take as much weight as other 4x4s.
Driving impressions
As with the exterior, the CR-V's interior is bland but solid. Seats are firm and comfortable and the manual box slick, but the auto takes some getting used to.
The steering is light, the driving position gives great visibility and the 2.0-litre engine well mannered. It needs revs to perform but doesn't object to them. However, body roll can be pronounced and sporty hatch owners will find the CR-V dull to drive, while the ride can get bouncy on undulating roads. It's a good compromise, but hardly inspiring.
Glass's View
In terms of residuals, the CR-V is one of the best of the bunch. Its depreciation has been limited by strong demand for models of all ages, together with the fact that used stocks have always been in short supply. It is well built and reliable, but one drawback is the fact there's no diesel. As petrol cars aren't the most economical, some buyers may be put off. People tend to opt for higher-specified examples, but these are thin on the ground and, as a result, values remain firm. Jeff Paterson, senior editor, Glass's Guide
Life With A CR-V
I bought a CR-V in 1998 for my wife to transport the kids in. Even with 75,000 miles on the clock, the car has been utterly reliable, hasn't let us down and is still in mint condition. I'm a big fan. Simon Staines, Coventry, W Mids
I won't be buying another CR-V because I want a diesel. Still, I like driving the Honda and it's reliable, although the running costs are too steep. David Walters, Melksham, Wilts