2009 Honda CR-V Review | Buyer Guide
CR-V Cruises for 2009
What do you do with your 2009 model, if you are Honda, and you have a winner, like the CR-V? You might just leave it alone. No sense making unnecessary changes when you have the best selling compact SUV in the market. Except for three new colors (Crystal Black Pearl, Silver Metallic and Urban Titanium Metallic) the CR-V is the same as it was last year.
The styling certainly didn’t need any attention. The current CR-V looks contemporary, and definitely more car-like than its boxy predecessor. The designers rounded the sheet metal, and shaped the side glass to mimic that of a sedan. Yet, subtle black cladding on the lower body and bumpers still conveys the purposefulness of an SUV.
The interior impresses just as much. It is very well finished, and very functional. The materials used on the dash, in particular, are first rate, and the fit is excellent. The styling is understated, with the only bit of flair coming from the door grips, which are shaped like pistons. Storage places abound. The CR-V comes with two glove boxes, a large storage bin in the center console and numerous cubbies.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable. The same can be said for those in the rear, which are roomy enough for six-footers. These passengers sit higher than those up front, and enjoy a good view of the road. In the back, there’s a large 35.7-cu.-ft. cargo area. Those who buy the EX and EX-L (leather) models get a dual-deck cargo shelf. This enables you to stow bulky items, like a folded stroller, on the floor, and up to 20 pounds of baggage above it. EX-L buyers can also order a navigation system that includes a backup camera.
Honda offers only one engine in the CR-V, its 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, that pumps out 166 horsepower. The automaker has resisted the call for a V-6, which in this time of uncertain gas prices is probably wise. The CR-V gets only one transmission too, a five-speed automatic. This power train does a good job of providing brisk acceleration, and more than adequate pulling power on hills. Furthermore, it delivers decent gas mileage—20-mpg City/26-mpg Highway. The CR-V is available with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive.
Honda engineers tuned the suspension of the CR-V to handle like a tall wagon, rather than an SUV. It takes corners without excessive body-lean, and maintains its poise when asked to make quick maneuvers. It also has good brakes. The anti-lock discs, with electronic brake distribution, do and excellent job of hauling the CR-V down from speed smoothly.
On the road, the CR-V cruises the interstates very comfortably, although some wind noise makes its way into the cabin. Around town, the ride is a bit bumpy on streets that are less than perfect, but overall, the CR-V feels very solid, and is pleasant to drive.
Snapshot Review
Contemporary Styling
Roomy and Functional
Sufficient Power
Decent Ride and Handling
