HONDA CR-V 4X4 READER REVIEWS

My car

The need for economy pushed me down from a full sized SUV (Merc ML) to a more compact model and the CRV won through. The winners were comfort - drives more like an estate car and space - boot and cabin. With three children not having a duff middle seat in the back was essential - the CRV was the only AWD I could find with a flat floor. Also a space saver tyre and a number of the toys that I wanted. Looked far more modern and appealing than the last model.

Compared it against the VW Tiguan - OK but expensive for what you got, the Volvo XC60 - expensive, stylish but not that good on the running costs, Mazda CX5 - great engine but a bit too plastic.

In top spec EX in polished metal (grey) pretty much all the toys were included. I added the Robust pack which was a rubbing strip, metal finishes front and rear and a side step. The latter seems a bit of a con because it is only on half the car. Sunroof is huge and opens up what can be a bit of a dark space if you opt for black leather. Other highlights - great stereo with lots of options and ease of use with the Ipod and phone. Automatic tail gate. Keyless entry - again only on the top model has taken me by surprise - I really like it, and the fact that you can lock the car from the boot mounted button is great. Reversing camera over all the range is a nice touch. Boot is huge and because the overhang at the rear is behind the wheels it can take a set of golf clubs across the car. First few miles the seats felt supportive and