The Honda CR-V has been the standard-bearer for the crossover segment since its introduction more than 15 years ago, and is currently the best-selling SUV in the United States. With an unmatched level of standard equipment and a car-based platform that provides a smooth ride and excellent fuel efficiency, the CR-V sets the crossover blueprint that others merely follow.

 

The five-passenger CR-V lineup (MSRP starting at $22,495) includes LX, EX and range-topping EX-L trims. Front-wheel drive is standard, and Honda Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System^™ is available on all. This variety gives buyers of different needs the CR-V that suits them best.

 

No matter which CR-V is desired, power is provided by a capable 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. It generates 185 hp (more than the Toyota RAV4) and 163 lb/ft of torque through a five-speed automatic transmission. Drivers can expect up to an impressive 31 mpg highway (again more than RAV4). Credit unit-body construction, MacPherson-strut front and multi-link rear suspension, and front and rear stabilizer bars for a silky smooth ride. The CR-V rides on 16-inch wheels as standard, and 17-inch wheels are available. Hill Start Assist is standard in every CR-V, as is a multi-angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines, both of which will help you get the most out of the 1,500-pound towing capacity of the CR-V.

 

The 2012 CR-V has a newly restyled exterior, including an updated headlight, grille, and taillight design. Standard equipment on all models includes folding power side mirrors, halogen headlights, and remote keyless entry, while EX models add a power moonroof and fog lamps. EX-L models incorporate roof rails that can be fitted with a number of Honda accessories, from Kayak attachments, to bike racks, to a cargo box.

 

Inside, the CR-V has an attractive and ergonomic interior layout. The focal point of the instrument panel is the new intelligent Multi-Information-Display (i-MID). This vivid digital screen provides vehicle average fuel economy, oil life, a compass, status for the standard Bluetooth Hands-Free Link, and the standard multi-angle rear view camera.

 

Standard equipment on all CR-V models includes the aforementioned Bluetooth, Pandora streaming internet radio capability, a USB port and an auxiliary audio port, all helping passengers get the most out of the standard four-speaker stereo. Choosing the EX will bring the speaker count to six, while opting for the EX-L gets you a 328-watt, seven-speaker sound system complete with subwoofer. The EX-L also boasts heated front seats, leather seating and a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel.

 

To the left of the steering wheel is a green “ECON” button, which helps maximize fuel economy, while the instrument panel features the Eco Assist system, which encourages green driving and changes the instrument panel lighting from white to green to help you see your results.

 

The CR-V provides all five occupants with a wealth of standard safety features––including Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)––all helping drivers take on the unexpected. The CR-V was given a “Top Safety Pick” designation by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the highest overall score of five-stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

In addition, the CR-V protects its passengers with the Honda Advanced Compatibility Engineering^™ (ACE^™) body structure, which helps disperse crash energy more evenly, plus dual-stage front airbags, front side airbags and side-curtain airbags. An Occupant Position Detection System uses sensors to determine occupant height and position and can deactivate airbags to help prevent passenger injury.

 

The car gurus atEdmunds.com noted, “We think the Honda CR-V's thoughtful mix of family-friendly attributes will continue to make it a great choice for most shoppers. As such, it easily remains one of our top picks in the class." U.S. News also ranked the CR-V second out of 20 in the “Affordable Compact SUVs” segment ahead of its rival, the Toyota RAV4.

 

Advancements in safety, fuel economy, styling and driver-focused information technology keep the 2012 Honda CR-V at the head of its class. Stop by today for a test drive.

 

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