2008 Honda CR-V

Once funky and cute, the Honda CR-V has grown up to look more like a high-dollar crossover. This latest-generation CR-V, completely redesigned and re-engineered for the 2007 model year, is more powerful and more comfortable than the previous-generation models. Its new suspension geometry delivers an improved ride and better, more responsive handling. The four-cylinder engine employs variable intake valve timing to optimize horsepower and torque for acceleration and cruising speeds and it’s paired with a five-speed automatic transmission.

Compared with the previous-generation CR-V, there’s slightly more room in the front seat and (in most dimensions) slightly less room in the rear. There’s marginally more cargo room. Everything by way of instruments, controls and storage is, respectively, logically arrayed, properly placed, and reasonably plentiful. Buyers choose from three models: the basic LX, mid-range EX, or leather-upholstered EX-L, which can be fitted with an optional navigation system that incorporates a rearview video camera for safe and easy backing. All have four doors and seat five.

Changes for 2008 are minimal. The EX-L now comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver’s seat, and the same premium audio system that last year came only with the navigation system.

Real Time all-wheel drive is offered on all three models. The 2008 fuel economy figures from the U.S. government’s EPA rate the front-wheel-drive CR-V at 20/27 miles per gallon City/Highway, and the all-wheel-drive version at 20/26 mpg.

All Honda CR-V models come with a 166-hp four-cylinder engine and a a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, four-wheel drive is available for all models ($1200).

The CR-V LX ($20,700) comes with fabric upholstery, air conditioning, cruise control, powered outside mirrors that fold, power windows, power central locking, driver’s-seat height adjustment, 60/40-split rear seatbacks that recline and fold, tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA stereo, trip computer/information center, a collapsible tray between the front seats, and 17-inch steel wheels with P225/65R17 tires.

The EX ($22,950) adds a tilt-and-slide power moonroof; intermittent rear window wiper/washer; steering wheel-mounted audio controls for a six-speaker stereo with an in-dash, six-CD changer; dual-deck cargo shelf; lights-and-horn security system; rear privacy glass; and an outside ambient temperature gauge.

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