Honda Civic Car INSURANCE

The Honda CR-V

True to the advertising campaign used to launch the CR-V, “Not all 4x4's are the same”. Moreover, this CR-V is nothing like the old one. Honda still insists that it is an SUV, just that it's more car-like and in keeping with current market trends.

The model has shifted from a fairly upright box shape to a sleeker and more aerodynamic vehicle. It looks longer than the old style due to the lower roof line, but it actually 100 mm shorter. This is mostly down to the fact the spare wheel is no longer on the back, being replaced instead by a ‘space-saver' spare under the boot. Although shorter in length, the boot capacity is bigger than before, 556 liters with the seats up and 955 liters when they're down. There is also extra width in the body, about 40mm in total.

This extra width in the body allows for larger, wider seats in the front. These seats also benefit from improved height adjustment, which is now determined through a ratchet lever in place of the old rotary controls. The steering wheel also now has reach-adjustment as well as rake.

The EX also benefits from duel zone air conditioning. Top of the range model in this class also include a 6 CD player with a high output audio system, complete with subwoofer. The EX includes satellite navigation system with blue tooth and hands-free capability, and the all important rear parking sensors. All of these extras can be bought for the cheaper ES model, at a cost of about £1,900.

Some other practical and standard features on the EX include larger 18-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof with electrically operated blinds, cruise control, heated front seats, leather upholstery, CMBS (collision mitigation braking system) which monitors vehicle distances, warning the driver should they get too close via ‘brake light' and buzzer. Should the driver choose to ignore this warning, the system will give a second warning by gently tugging on the drivers' seat belt. If there is still no response from you, the system will brake harder and pre-tension the seat belts. All this comes as a single package with the EX, so counts as one option.

As well as the larger boot mentioned before, further storage can be found under the front passenger seat, there is also a 6.9 litre glove box with a lidded tray above it. A storage box between the front seats offers 6.5 litres and is capable of holding 24 CD's. Door bins and cup holders are also dotted about the cabin.

The safety and security aspects of this car are, as in all Hondas, of top quality. VSA (vehicle stability assist) is a standard feature across the Honda range. It helps with cornering and fast direction changes. The system also includes Traction Control and ABS (anti-lock braking system) and EBD (electronic brake force distribution), ensuring the car brakes reassuringly well. Part of their safety program means that EX customers can order ACC (adaptive cruise control), which when activated, maintains a constant set distance from the car in front. As well as these additional features, the CR-V also has the standard duel, front, side and curtain airbags and anti-whiplash head restraint. Add all this to the CMBS system mentioned earlier and what you have is a car that is as secure and safe as you would expect from Honda.

Finally, I would say that Honda did well to answer the calls about too many 4x4 gas guzzlers on the road. The CO2 emissions from this 4x4 are lower than a lot of cars on the road. Honda designed and produced a car that, although still a 4x4, feels more like a people carrier. I'm not sure it knows what it wants to be, an MPV or an SUV. It feels more like an MPV with limited off road capabilities, a far cry from the older model.