2009 Honda CR-V Competition

Table of Contents
2009 Honda CR-V Review
2009 Honda CR-V Prices
2009 Honda CR-V Road Test
2010 Honda CR-V Review
2009 Honda CR-V Car Quote

2009 Honda CR-V competition
Three prime alternatives to the Honda CR-V are the Toyota RAV-4, Saturn Vue, and Nissan Rouge. Like the CR-V, they’re based on front-wheel-drive car-type structures, offer AWD, and are better suited to commuter duties than off-road excursions. Lighter and more fuel-efficient than SUVs with truck chassis, car-based SUVs are called “crossovers” and are the fastest-growing SUV segment.

The RAV-4 tops Vue and Rouge in sales and is the only one of this bunch available with third-row seats for seven-passenger capacity. RAV-4 doesn’t handle quite as well as the CR-V or Rouge but is solidly built and offers as an alternative to its four-cylinder engine the most-powerful V-6 in the class. Prices pace those of the CR-V, even for loaded models with the V-6. RAV-4 was redesigned for model-year 2006; its next big change is due around model-year 2012.

The Nissan Rouge was introduced for model-year 2008 and vies with the CR-V for sporty on-road feel, but not overall refinement or ride quality. Still, prices are the lowest of this foursome. Rouge comes only with a 175-horsepower four-cylinder engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). A CVT is essentially an automatic transmission that dispenses with conventional gears in favor of a rheostat-like transfer of power. It’s fuel-efficient, but can exaggerate engine noise during rapid acceleration. Rouge’s 2008 looks and design will hold until at least model-year 2013.

The redesigned Vue from General Motors’ Saturn division debuted for 2008 as an Americanized version of an SUV developed by GM’s German Opel arm. It feels the most European of this bunch, with fine on-road composure and an upscale air. But it’s also the most cramped for passenger and cargo room. Vue offers the widest choice of engines here, including a four-cylinder and two V-6s. It’s also the only one with a gas-electric hybrid model, though it’s a “mild” hybrid that can’t run on electricity alone. Base prices start competitively, but top-line models hit $29,000. Vue’s not due for a redesign before 2012 or 2013.