64: Honda CR-V – Outgoing model still a bit of a star

The CR-V is about to be replaced by a new model that (shock, horror) may not feature a diesel option. Instead it will have a clever petrol-based hybrid as Honda seeks to move away from DERV in the next few years.

Which is a bit of a shame, as the 1.6-litre iDTEC 160hp diesel found in the CR-V is one of the best oil-burners around, and combined with a slick-shifting manual gearbox and four-wheel drive, it makes the CR-V a hugely appealing family SUV.

Roomy and comfortable, the dash design may be a bit messy, but there is no (and never has been) any arguing with Honda’s overall levels of quality and reliability. This is one of those cars you could conceivably consider handing down to your grandkids (”what’s diesel, grandpa?”).

The handling and ride are top drawer for the SUV class, and considering how affordable it is, it actually puts up a stern challenge to premium-brand models which can be as much as €20,000 more expensive. The only catch? No seven-seat version.