Versatility, competency, and reliability are the tenets on which the CR-V hangs its hat. Supportive seats and a firm but supple ride make it easy to live with. The interior is quiet, handsome, and roomy. The base engine is a 184-hp 2.4-liter four-cylinder, while a 190-hp turbo 1.5-liter four is optional. A CVT (one of the best around) and front-wheel drive are standard; all-wheel drive is optional. Automated emergency braking and other safety gear is standard on EX and above trims.

For the first time, the CR-V has a turbocharged engine; it’s available on the EX, EX-L, and Touring trim levels. The turbo 1.5-liter inline-four makes 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, and it’s shared with the Honda Civic, but it’s been tuned to make more power. We didn’t have any qualms about its performance during our time behind the wheel, and we liked how well it could jet around in traffic thanks to quick responses at low speeds.