2000 Honda CR-V Review (continued)
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Walkaround

Honda's CR-V is similar in concept and execution to Toyota's RAV4. Unlike most SUVs, these two mini sport-utilities are based on passenger car platforms. The CR-V is based on Honda's subcompact Civic line. The RAV4 is based on the Toyota Camry. The CR-V is considerably bigger and roomier than the RAV4, however. In fact, its dimensions are close to those of the four-door Jeep Cherokee, and it packs about the same cargo capacity.

Though it has the familiar Honda grille work and a steep windshield rake, the CR-V's exterior design has the boxy look of a sport-utility. There are two reasons for that: First, it's what buyers keep telling manufacturers they like. Second, it maximizes interior volume.

Interior Features

Like all Hondas, the CR-V's interior is subdued, comfortable, thoughtfully designed, and nicely finished. Front bucket seats are well contoured and spacious, and split-folding rear seatbacks can be reclined, a rare feature in any vehicle. Big mirrors provide excellent rearward visibility.

The instrument panel is straightforward and logical, with secondary controls that are instantly recognizable, particularly to anyone who's ever driven a Honda. An exception: Power window switches, located on the dashboard to the left of the steering wheel, are a bit awkward when underway.

The column-mounted shifter seems out of place in something that calls itself a sport-utility. On the other hand, putting the shift lever on the steering column allowed Honda to create a convenient minivan-style pass-through between the front seats. The manual transmission shifter takes up a bit of that space.

A handy tray with integrated cupholders flips up between the front seats. Two more cupholders slide out below the climate controls on automatic transmission models. An abundance of storage pockets and bins are located throughout.

For all its engaging detail touches, though, the most endearing trait of the CR-V interior is its roominess. There's lots of front headroom and legroom and plenty of rear legroom if the people in the front seats cooperate. There's a sizable cargo space behind the rear seats. The rear seatbacks flip and fold individually to expand cargo space. The CR-V even comes with a picnic table that stows in the rear floor. Pop it out, flip down the legs and it's party time.

Like the RAV4, the CR-V carries its spare tire on a rack mounted on the tailgate. Unlike the RAV4, and a lot of other external mounts, the CR-V's is low enough so that it doesn't interfere with vision to the rear. The tailgate on the Honda CR-V is a two-piece affair. The glass upper portion lifts up, while the lower portion swings open like a door. Both functions are operated by the key, which it is not the handiest arrangement if you're juggling an armful of groceries or cargo. The operator must first unlock the window portion, flip it up, and then swing the door open. There is a rear window release inside; it's on the downside of the dashboard, to the left of the driver's left knee. It's a push button. This releases the window, which must be opened before the door.