The true test, however, came with a drive, or rather a trek, up to the Whistler ski resort in BC, Canada. Surprisingly, the K24-equipped CR-V zipped up the mountain with enough power to overtake slower traffic when the single lane would briefly expand to two. Handling was also unexpectedly first-rate for a vehicle with the letters "S," "U," and "V" attached to it, as it maneuvered around sharp corners like a sporty sedan. While an NSX might've made for a more action packed run, the CR-V's interior was plush, roomy and comfortable during the long drive and the voice command prompts on the nav unit was a handy feature during the five hour adventure.
When it comes down to it, price and utility usually go out the window in precedence to style. However, now that the new CR-V adds a healthy dash of style to the package, the car has a practical yet alluring appeal-like a cute girl with a great personality. On the drive up to Whistler, its looks even managed to unholster a camera phone or two from neighboring drivers. Drop in a set of cams, a supercharger, suspension, 19-inch wheels, and you've got yourself a new and improved Cherry Coke of a daily.
| THE RIDE | ’07 Honda CR-V |
| THE STICKER | Estimated $20,000- 26,000 MSRP (add $2,000 for navigation) |
| UNDER THE HOOD | 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC 16-valve 4-cylinder |
| THE POWER | 166 hp @ 5,800 rpm, 161 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm |
| SCALE TIPPING | 3,389 lbs (LX); 3433 lbs (EX-L) (curb weight) |
| LAYOUT | Front engine, available Real Time 4-wheel drive |
| GEARBOX | 5-speed automatic transmission |
| STIFF STUFF | Front: MacPherson strut, 20m |