I did like the CR-V’s excellent visibility, something I don’t always experience on big SUVs, which can be riddled with blind spots. And the soft velour seats come with comfortable armrests for driver and front-seat passenger. I also liked the easy-to-use climate controls and audio system. What a pleasure to just turn an intuitive dial to start the heater. Two power outlets upfront let my husband and me charge our cell phones at the same time. Nice. And a lively gauge cluster is crisp with contemporary graphics and jazzed up with a bright blue ring. As for power, the CR-V has pep, easily climbing a steep freeway grade at maximum traffic speed. Plenty of panache for just a little cash.
Tip: Snag the four-wheel-drive model for an additional $1,200.
