2001 Honda CR-V: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The addition of rear child-seat tethers is the main change for Honda's 2001 compact SUV. CR-V comes as a front-drive LX model and in LX, EX, and top-line SE versions with 4-wheel drive. SE has leather interior among several exclusive features. SE and base LX have standard automatic transmission. All use a 146-hp 4-cyl engine. Honda's Real-Time 4WD normally drives the front wheels, but directs power aft if front wheelspin occurs; it's not intended for hard off-road use, lacking locked-in 4WD and separate low-range gearing. ABS standard for EX and SE, unavailable on LXs. CR-V is being redesigned 2002; it'll have new styling but retain 4-cyl power.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buy Honda CR-V doesn't offer true off-road ability and has milquetoast acceleration, it does mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.

New this year are the Ford Escape and clone Mazda Tribute. We have been very impressed with early production models and may elevate these two to Best Buys after we get more seat time.