2002 Honda CR-V

Ergonomics have been refined in the cockpit. One of the most obvious changes is more legible gauges.

Plenty of vehicles are redesigned each year, but only a few provide the sensation of a completely different vehicle. That's how the CR-V feels. Not only is it smooth, quiet, refined and "classy" throughout, but also functions with plenty of pep—especially with the manual transmission. The five-speed shifts easily, and the clutch behaves nicely—not grabby at all but producing smooth, positive engagement. With the automatic, the CR-V performs more acceptably on steep inclines than its predecessor did, but it's still no powerhouse when the task gets truly demanding. Downshifts are less abrupt than before, and engine blare when pushed hard is reduced. Noise is still there to an extent, though, and dropping by a couple of gears often is essential in mountainous terrain.


Drivers can expect excellent control on winding two-lane roads. Steering with a light but certain touch, staying easily on course, the CR-V is neatly stable—exhibiting just a little lean in curves, but not enough to be bothersome. Though not invariably gentle, the ride is generally smooth. Occupants will feel a fair number of bumps, but few are likely to annoy.

Although the 2nd-generation doesn't appear much larger than the first, the 2002 CR-V has eight more cubic feet of interior volume. Front seat cushions are longer and wider, and passengers can enjoy two extra inches of headroom.

Most passengers likely won't complain about interior space. Firm but well-cushioned seats contain snug side bolstering, to help keep occupants in place. Gauges are more conventional than they used to be, and very easy to read. The original instruments were interesting but idiosyncratic, and most drivers should prefer these. Three handy storage trays sit above a good-sized tapered glovebox. Not so handy is the covered box below the high-mounted radio; too small to hold CDs.


Most drivers won't consider the CR-V's imperfect mountain prowess a significant drawback, or be bothered by any other imperfections, because the vehicle is so beautifully improved otherwise. Anyone looking for a small SUV that's ready to deliver pleasure for a long drive need seek no further than the 2002 CR-V. (www.honda.com)