Honda CR-V 2.2 i-CTDi EX
Clean diesel boosts SUV’s credentials
Here are more compact SUVs on Britain’s roads than any other type of 4x4. Yet you’re unlikely to find many heading for the hills. So can their practicality justify their extra emissions?
With a CO2 output of 173g/km, Honda’s CR-V gives out 4g/km more than Ford’s Kuga. However, while the blue oval 4x4 is little more practical than a Focus, the CR-V is a much more versatile family car.
And it’s not short on appeal, either. With its classy black paint and plush leather-lined cabin, the Japanese model looks smart inside and out. On our test route, the CR-V proved more adept to all types of terrain than any of its rivals.
During the long cruise up the motorway from London to Yorkshire, the Honda was very refined and comfortable. And when the going got tough, the depth of engineering behind the CR-V’s chassis became ever more evident. Where other cars were bouncing up and down over lumps and bumps, the Honda was gliding smoothly down the road. It never once hit the limit of its suspension, leaving all occupants relaxed and comfortable.
What’s more, it returned 36.2mpg economy, equating to an actual CO2 output of 209g/km. For anyone living in a rural area with a growing family, the Honda is a sensible alternative to roadgoing models. Come rain, shine, snow or flood, it will give you the confidence you need to get from A to B all year round.
Details
Price: £25,130
Model tested: Honda CR-V 2.2 i-CTDi EX
WHY: Combination of low CO2, practicality and off-road ability makes the CR-V unique.
Economy
There’s no doubt the CR-V is a talented SUV, but its abilities are put into context by its lofty asking price. Ford’s Kuga is cheaper and makes more sense if you don’t need to carry lots of luggage and passengers. The Honda’s overall ownership experience is strong, though, with top-value servicing, at £630 over the first three years. In our Driver Power survey, Honda is a consistent high scorer for its cars and dealers.
Environment
For rural drivers, CR-V is justifiable. Emissions are no worse than a family car’s.
