2006 Compact SUV : HONDA CR-V

Many newcomers have entered the compact sport utility vehicle market since Honda launched its car-based CR-V as a 1997 model. Honda’s compact five-passenger SUV offers LX, EX, and SE models. LXs come with front- or all-wheel drive. The others have AWD. The 2006 CR-V earned five-star ratings in both frontal and side-impact crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

An automatic transmission is available for all models; a 5-speed manual is available for EX versions only. Traction/antiskid control and antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Each CR-V seats up to five occupants in front bucket seats and a three-place rear bench. All models have remote keyless entry and a retractable grab rail. All-disc antilock brakes, Vehicle Stability Assist, and side-impact and side curtain-type airbags are standard.

A bumper beam was designed to match the height of passenger-car bumpers. This SUV is neatly stable, stays easily on course, maneuvers crisply and yields an enjoyable driving experience. The ride isn’t wholly gentle, but it’s smooth most of the time. Occupants feel the bumps, but few are annoying. Honda’s CR-V is quiet, smooth, refined and classy.