Honda CR-V

One of the main attractions of the 2019 Honda CR-V is the generous amount of cabin space. Honda widened the vehicle and extended the wheelbase in 2017, effectively making the CR-V among the most spacious in its segment. Front and back, there’s plenty of room for occupants to maneuver around. Likewise with the cargo—with its maximum volume of 2146 liters. Very few compact SUVs can even come close to this capacity, so if cargo volume is a primary consideration for you, the CR-V deserves to be your top choice for a crossover.

As for the rest of the CR-V’s interior features, the infotainment system starts with a 7-inch touchscreen with navigation, Bluetooth hands-free telephone, audio streaming, and USB input. This links to an 8-speaker audio system replete with four tweeters. The CR-V cabin also comes with intelligent dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, ambient light, full-color TFT instrument cluster, and a two-tone wood finish. 

The Honda CR-V’s external aesthetic is one of the best things going for it. Sporty and classy at the same time, the sheet metal is eye-catching without being too overwhelming. The side bulges in particular, are a piece of eye candy. Though the fascia received some noteworthy updates in the 2020 model, the 2019 version’s façade doesn’t look passé in the least. In fact, the only difference between the old and new is the reduced amount of chrome in the grille and a retooling of the front bumper’s lower portion. The sweeping headlights and hexagonal grille are the same as the previous version. In terms of dimensions, the CR-V measures 4571 mm long, 1855 mm wide, and 1667 mm tall. The wheelbase is at 2660 mm, and ground clearance is at a respectable 208 mm. 

The Honda CR-V’s steering and handling is another one of its fun qualities. It’s easy to notice the natural feel of every turn, which is as precise as any crossover can get. The wheel just seems to turn effortlessly in your hands, with nary any clunky and awkward feeling. 

Ride quality is extremely pleasant as well, with very little body roll and a keen ability to overcome mid-corner humps and bumps with ease. In fact, any road imperfection is easily handled by the CR-V. Just don’t expect this car to be a rugged off-roader. Stick to city streets, and the CR-V will provide you with plenty of immensely enjoyable drives.

The Honda CR-V is available in two engine options—a 1.6-liter i-DTEC Turbodiesel (118 hp, 300 Nm) for the upper trims and a 2.0-liter i-VTEC gas (152 hp 189 Nm) for the base model. The gas is paired with a CVT, while the diesel is mated to a 9-speed automatic with the electronic gear selector. All transmission systems are controlled via paddle shifters.

Honda is well-known for prioritizing the safety of its vehicles, and so the 2019 Honda CR-V boasts plenty of excellent safety features. Families with children will especially love the fact that airbags front and side, child safety locks, child seat anchors, three-point seatbelts, and an emergency stop signal come standard. Not only that, but there’s also plenty of advanced safety systems such as agile handling assist, driver attention monitor, vehicle stability assist, and hill start assist 

The 2020 Honda CR-V is a strong contender in its segment, with plenty of "best SUV" wins tucked under its belt. The standardization of the turbo diesel engine has certainly elevated the CR-V status as one of the most exciting crossovers to own, giving car buyers more reasons to invest in this reliable Honda offering.