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2010 Honda CR-V EX-L NAVI Review

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Rob Rothwell
Uncomplicated Pleasure
Three times this week I’ve piled my teenage son and a smattering of his friends and related gear into the CR-V for a day trip to a local ski hill. On all three occasions, I have grown more appreciative of Honda’s compact crossover SUV.

It’s a compact, versatile performer that charms its way into everyone’s automotive heart.

2010 brings more power and better fuel economy
A 2.4-litre 4-cylinder DOHC engine featuring Honda’s i-VTEC technology powers the CR-V. For 2010, output from this modest mill has been boosted to 180 horsepower @ 6,800 rpm while torque remains unchanged at 161 pound-feet.

A welcome adjunct to the extra 14 horses over the zeal of last year’s engine is a slight increase in fuel economy. The 2010 CR-V equipped with Honda’s optional RealTime 4WD (four-wheel drive) is now rated at 10.1 and 7.5L/100km city and highway driving respectively.

That’s a pretty decent showing when one considers the 4WD functionality of this vehicle combined with the additional grunt behind its refashioned grille.

Minor styling revisions provide visual distinction for 2010
Some close scrutiny may be required in order to spot the 2010 styling revisions. Subtle as they are, they include a revised front fascia and a larger grille along with a redesigned rear bumper. Despite the amended surfaces, the CR-V’s “smiling face” front-end theme remains intact.

Perhaps I’ve grown accustomed to this odd design cue that seems all a-rage these days but I’m not a fan of it, or its application on the CR-V’s nose. I do however think that the CR-V’s side profile and tail design are attractive, fresh and worthy of praise.

About the only alteration inside the CR-V for 2010 is the incorporation of a centre-console bin and cup-holder arrangement that replaces the flip-up centre shelf found in last year’s model. The new arrangement is definitely more functional and a better usage of the space between the front seats.

Maximizing both seating and cargo
The CR-V is capable of seating five adults in realistic comfort. I was surprised to find the rear 40/20/40 3-way split rear seat to be so accommodating of my long limbs. And the triple split enables more versatility than a conventional double split when it comes to matching cargo capacity with seating needs.

The CR-V is capable of seating five adults in realistic comfort.
Rob Rothwell
Rob Rothwell
Automotive expert
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