WHEN Honda went back to the drawing board to tweak the spec of its CR-V, added refinement was top of the wish-list.
Basically, Honda wanted its 4x4 to perform like an off-roader, but have all the luxurious touches and specifications often only found in a saloon car.
And if it's refinement they wanted, then refinement they got. For, not only does the CR-V hold its own with many saloon models for comfort, looks and features, it actually beats off many competitors.
For example, there are luxury-leather seats, an eight-way, electrically-adjustable driver's seat (heated of course), a DVD satellite navigation with Bluetooth hands-free telephone, rear parking camera, a premium stereo system with subwoofer and a fabulous panoramic glass roof which provides occupants with a light and airy atmosphere.
In fairness, the CR-V has always been a practical, fine-handling family car that has turned heads in envy, rather than a large, clumsy off-roader that attracts all the wrong sort of attention on the school run... and it still is.
It delivers a fabulous drive in and around town where the handling is responsive, and the high-driver position offers excellent all-round visibility. And on the more open road, the 2.0-litre engine provides plenty of power.
Comfort is excellent and there is ample room for five adults to travel in style along with all their luggage. Throughout the cabin are numerous storage compartments, including a lockable glove box and hidden boxes beneath the seats.
Safety features are excellent on the CR-V, with anti-lock brakes complete with electronic brakeforce distribution and vehicle stability assist, numerous airbags and a body shell that has been specifically designed to fully protect its occupants.
To be honest, it was hard to find fault - the best I could come up with was that the armrest sort of got in the way of the handbrake! But one thing's certain - it's easy to see why CR-V sales figures are class-leading.
FAST FACTS
Honda CR-V 2.0i VTEC EX
Price: £23,527
Mechanical: 148bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving all wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 118mph
0-62mph: 10.2 secs
Combined mpg: 34.9
Insurance group: 12
CO2 emissions: 192g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 90,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust