The once edgy Honda CRV has rounded out and taken upon the increasingly popular egg shape look. With a base price estimated around $21,500, the 2007 Comfort Runabout Vehicle is expected to increase it selling power with the demand for crossover vehicles rising amidst concerns over fuel consumption and cost. Refinement is paramount in this next chapter of the CRV saga. Improving interior quality, ride comfort, and the overall impression of the CRV was a primary focus of the Honda engineering team. "Our goal," project leader Mitsuru Horikoshi said, "was to make it solid and tight and evolve from an SUV to a more sedan-like feel. We were able to achieve this through three main goals: lowering the center of gravity, making a more rigid body structure and improving the driving performance."

The CRV will be offered in three trims: LX, EX, and EX-L. Each configuration will receive the 2.4 liter i-VTEC engine that provides 166hp and is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Automatic Real Time four wheel drive is left as an option. Overall, the offerings have improved on all fronts of the next Honda CRV. The interior is more sedan-like, as is the ride and the exterior has been shaped to match current consumer interests and trends. Having owned an early generation CRV myself, I must say Honda has done well this round and this vehicle looks to be quite promising. We will keep you posted if we hear of any other noteworthy headlines on this crossover.

Vital Statistics:
Base price: $21,500 (est.)
Engine: 2.4-liter DOHC i-VTEC four, 166 hp/161 lb-ft
Transmission: Five-speed automatic, front or four-wheel drive
Length x width x height: 178.0 x 71.6 x 66.1 in
Wheelbase: 103.1 in
Curb weight (2WD/4WD): 3389/3501 lb
Fuel economy (EPA city/hwy): 23/30 (2WD); 22/28 (4WD) mpg

Major standard features: Keyless remote; cruise control; tilt/telescoping steering wheel; power windows, locks; power folding side mirrors; air conditioning with air filtration; AM/FM/CD four-speaker audio with MP3 capability; trip computer

Safety features: Anti-lock brakes with EBD and Brake Assist; stability and traction control; dual front, side and curtain airbags; front active head restraints; daytime running lights

Warranty: Three years/36,000 miles