2013 Honda CR-V Reviews

Remember that old saying: “If it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Well, that was Honda’s approach when it released the new 4th generation CR-V in 2012. Honda was an early adopter of the SUV, it was very successful with the earlier generations of the CVR-V, and stuck to its tried and true game plan with the new RM

Graham Smith reviews the 2012, 2013 and 2014 Honda CR-V as a used buy.

When the Honda CR-V was first sold in Australia in October 1997 it was a considered to be a genuine 4WD, albeit one intended only for mild conditions. That was almost 20 years ago and the SUV situation has changed markedly in the meantime. Today so-called small SUVs are really station wagons, are frequently driven by

This is my second crack at this car and in hindsight I may have been a little harsh in my criticism the first time around. The CR-V still lacks any real punch, especially when it comes to steep hills  but on the flat around town it ain't half bad. Fuel economy for a car this size is impressive too.The 2WD manual is priced from $27,490 plus on road costs, with an automatic another $2300. Whether it's this one or the more expensive 4WD 2.4, both models get 17-inch alloys, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, automatic-off headlights, cruise control, USB connectivity and Bluetooth hands-free as standard.While the eqivalent 4WD is $5300 more that includes the auto which brings the difference down to $3000. Apart from some minor differences, the 4WD adds paddle shifts with the auto but that's about it.The two-wheel drive is powered by a new 2.0 litre i-VTEC engine, while the four-wheel drive powered by a bigger 2.4-litre i-VTEC engine that delivers more power. The 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine delivers 114kW of power and 190Nm of torque.It's hooked up to a  six-speed manual or five-speed automatic. The 58-litre tank takes standard unleaded and fuel economy is a claimed 7.8 litres/100km for the manual and 7.7 litres/100km for the automatic, with CO2 emissions of 182g/km for the manual and 179g/km for the automatic.No worries here. Comes with a five-star safety rating and full gammut of safety systems, including six airbags and electronic stability control. Yes, 4WD is safer, especially in the rain  but 90 per cent of the time it doesn't matter.Our test vehicle was the 2.0-litre five-speed auto. Like the look, like the standard of finish and like the biggish boot, which is larger than that in the Mazda CX-5. The cabin is bright and inviting, with good vision from the high driving position and a dash that is well laid out with chunky, easy to use controls.It's very quiet and smooth, or at least it was to start with. Somewhere along the line our test vehicle developed a shudder in the front end that became worse at freeway speeds. Acceleration is a chore but once it is up and running, everything is fine.The auto swaps a footbrake for the handbrake, which some drivers don't like and in this model the auto doesn't come with paddle shifts.We clocked up about 400km of mainly freeway driving at a rate of 7.7 litres/100km.The two wheel drive is cheaper and uses less fuel, but in this case that is unfortunately at the expensive of performance.  It's the same 2.0-litre four cylinder petrol engine as the Civic, which in itself isn't a problem. but it's 258kg heavier -- and that, I'm afraid, is.A good around town car with a largish boot. But if you're planning any longer trips with the family, I'd be looking at the 2.4-litre all-wheel drive model.

It's almost inevitable. Once you two are no longer DINKS, an SUV appears in your driveway. The convertible lacks boot space, the V8 ute has no rear seat and the full-on 4WD is too big.The solution seems to be a compact or medium SUV. There are worthy station wagons to consider but new car buyers want to look like explorers, not breeders. Check the shopping centre or school car parks -- easily a third of vehicles have more than 150mm of ground clearance.Today's SUV is far from the 4WDs of yore -- it's easy to drive and load, child friendly, frugal with fuel and competitively priced.  The toughest surface these machines face is a wet speed bump so four of the five we've assessed have a 2WD variant.If you want to carry seven or more, that's the terrain of people-movers and large SUVs. Stay tuned for that. Weekly running costs include purchase, finance, registration, insurance, servicing; based on 15,000km a year, private ownership; costs vary between states and variants.Toyota RAV4 The new model brings with it a diesel -- it's unsuited to towing, so the 2.5 petrol is the option for versatility. Boot space is 506L (or 577L without a full-size spare). It has only 160mm of ground clearance and a low chin, so steer clear of serious obstacles. It scores for driver's knee airbag, spacious and quiet cabin with good storage but loses for a sharpish ride.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $199-$235 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 107kW/187Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl, 132kW/233Nm; 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 110kW/340NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto, CVT; FWD/AWDThirst: 5.6L-8.6L/100km Tank 60LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: GXL 2.5 auto AWD $35,490Price: from $28,490Subaru ForesterOne of the newer models here, the Soob still leans to the off-road side of the equation. There are diesel and turbo petrol options but most buyers won't need that amount of urge. Boot space isn't great at 422L but the Forester gives occupants ample room and a smooth drivetrain. The CVT is much better than previous versions.Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmRunning costs: $210-$230 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl boxer, 110kW/198Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl boxer, 126kW/235Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl boxer turbo diesel, 108kW/350NmTransmission: 6-speed man, CVT; AWDThirst: 5.9L-8.1L/100kmTank: 60LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: 2.5i-L $35,990Price: from $30,990Mazda CX-5If evidence was needed that SUVs are moving away from their off-road origins, the Mazda provides it. An A-grade unsealed surface is about as adventurous as you'd want to get with the little Mazda but it has few peers for on-road dynamics and nothing comes close to its Skyactiv turbo diesel powerplant. The absence of rear vents can be overlooked but at least the child seat anchor points are on the seat backs. It's got the longest wheelbase of this quintet, which suggests reasonable cabin space, but boot space is below par at 403 litres and ride quality isn't as supple as the Honda.Warranty: 3 years/unlimited kmRunning costs: $203-$244 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 114kW/200Nm; 2.5-litre 4cyl, 138kW/250Nm; 2.2-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 129kW/420NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto; FWD/AWDThirst: 5.7L-7.4L/100km Tank 58LDimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: Maxx Sport 2.2Price: from $27,880Nissan X-TrailThis version has been around for nearly a decade, hence it rates four crash safety stars from ANCAP rather than the now standard five. It tops the braked towing capacity with 2000kg, adding to its versatility despite just 410L of boot space. It has off-road prowess, diesel variant (in AWD only) and a ``lite'' option, the 2.0-litre front-driver.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $219-$243 pwSafety: 4 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 102kW/198Nm; 2.5-litre 4-cyl, 125kW/226Nm; 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbo diesel, 127kW/360Nm (auto 110kW/320Nm)Transmission: 6-speed man, 6-speed auto, CVT; FWD/AWDThirst: 7.1L-9.1L/100kmTank: 65LDimensions: 4.6m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: 2.5 ST $32,690Price: from $28,490Honda CR-VOnce dominant then long lost, the Honda is getting back where it belongs. Chief asset is cargo space of 556L, the best of the bunch despite a full-size spare, although marred by roof-mounted child seat anchors. Footprint is compact but Honda says there has been no change to passenger space. Compared with previous model, much quieter and easier on the backside. Pricing is canny, there are front and all-wheel drive variants and a diesel is imminent.Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmRunning costs: $189-$225 pwSafety: 5 starsEngine: 2.0-litre 4-cyl, 114kW/190Nm; 2.4-litre 4-cyl, 140kW/222NmTransmission: 6-speed man, 5-speed auto; FWD/AWDThirst: 7.7L-8.7L/100kmTank: 58LDimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Stuey's pick: VTi-S AWDPrice: from $27,490

Small SUVs are the auto equivalent of smartphones: you have to be seen with one. Those who haven’t already caught on are rushing to buy (or build) light and compact crossovers. In Australia, couples and families hold the view that SUVs represent the “best of both worlds”.With fuel economy and comfort to rival a small car; the space to carry furniture or friends and a high ride height for the “command” seating; SUVs are a multi-purpose lifestyle accessory. It’s just a case of which design suits that lifestyle.THE CARSExcluding the all-paw Forester, the rest of the fleet are front-wheel drive models. All are entry level automatic or continuously variable transmission versions. And all sold more than 1000 cars last month, making them as mainstream as a Toyota Camry.THIRSTSkyActiv technology gives the Mazda CX-5 the lead in the weekly fuel costs at around $26.33. That’s more than $8.50 cheaper than the dearest vehicle here, Hyundai’s iX35. It is small change over a week but adds up to more than $425 a year being siphoned out of the wallet/purse, so it’s worth considering.SERVICINGCaps off to the capped-price carmakers. Online disclosure means it is easy to see how much servicing of a Toyota or Hyundai will be. As yet, Honda doesn’t have the option of capped price servicing, while Subaru and Mazda want vehicle identification before they’ll quote the costs. Hyundai heads this pack with one yearly visit to the dealer that will cost $259.DEPRECIATIONBuying a new car is an investment in emotion, not practicality. The best-performing of this group - the Mazda, Subaru and Honda - will be worth just 54 per cent of its new price value in three years, according to Glass’s Guide. The Hyundai and Toyota will have halved in value over that period.MISCGovernment charges vary by state; check with your local authority for registration on a specific vehicle. The capped price servicing won’t cover items subject to wear in the normal course of their life, such as tyres, windscreen wipers and brake pads.*Fuel costs based on April national average of 142.6c for 91 ULP and 15,000km travelled annually.Mazda CX-5 FWD Fuel use @ 6.4L/100km = $1368.96 p/a = $4106.88 over 3 yrsCost $29,880. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $394 first yr; $1745 over 3 yrs/60,000kmToyota RAV4 CVTFuel use @ 7.4L/100km = $1582.86 p/a = $4748.50 over 3 yrsCost $30,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $340/yr; $1020 over 3 yrs/60,000kmHyundai ix35 ActiveFuel use @ 8.5L/100km = $1818.15 p/a = $5454.45 over 3 yrsCost $28,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 50 per centServicing: $259/yr; $777 over 3 yrs/45,000kmSubaru Forester 2.5iFuel use @ 8.1L/100km = $1732.59 p/a = $5197.77 over 3 yrsCost $32,990. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $542.72 first yr; $1983.70 over 3 yrs/75,000kmHonda CR-V VTiFuel use @ 7.7L/100km = $1647.03 p/a = $4941.09 over 3 yrsCost $31,790. Residual value after 3 yrs 54 per centServicing: $483.64 first yr; $1450.92 over 3 yrs/60,000km 

SUVs are the best excuse to have more kids. If you're keen to procreate, vehicles like the CR-V will immediately entitle you to three children and even prompt you to look further to the seven-seat Odyssey.For those easing off on increasing the family count, contemplate that the Honda CR-V is remarkably space-efficient and will easily stack two or three adult bicycles - without removing any wheels - or large items of furniture or three children and their prams.It honours the adage that your possessions grow or diminish in direct proportion to the amount of available storage space and so allows you to enjoy hoarding.This is one of the most accommodating haulers in its class - the Mitsubishi Outlander is the other - but its flexibility in carting people and more solid loads isn't its only virtue. The CR-V is easy to drive, relatively cheap to own and if you pick the right model, good value for money.VALUEHere's the rub - you don't need the 4WD version that was tested here. Chances of this making it through the dirt are slim and though there's benefit for snow country, the extra $5300 over the 2WD model probably isn't worth it even though the 2WD has a smaller engine.In fact, at $31,790, the VTi Nav 2WD automatic model is the pick. The 4WD tested in VTi-L trim costs $42,290. That's a lot of money. If you don't need leather upholstery and extra baubles, think about the 2WD.In terms of space, few family vehicles come close at that price. But the VTi-L 4WD is a very well-equipped unit with kit including sat-nav, sunroof, leather upholstery, reverse camera, 18-inch alloy wheels and front and rear airconditioning.DESIGNIt's an evolution of previous CR-Vs and though it's substantially bigger that earlier models, is actually 20mm shorter than the outgoing effort. However, by moving the windscreen forward and lowering the boot floor, the cabin has Tardis-size space not only in sheer size, but accessibility.The rear seats tumble and fold almost flat, with special slots for the head restraints, with one pull of a nylon loop. It's so easy. The lift-up hatch is high, wide and the load area is low. There's even a full-size spare under the floor. Expansive glass not only means it's bright and airy, but the low waistline gives children a broad outlook.There's room for three adults in the rear with plenty of head and because of the flat floor, legroom. Dash design is simple yet easy to operate. Much as I dislike foot-operated park brakes, I concede it removes much of the clutter in the centre console.TECHNOLOGYThe 2.4-litre petrol engine has been a Honda stable-mate and now delivers 140kW at 7000rpm and 222Nm of torque at 4400 rpm. These figures are mentioned because no owner is ever going to subject the engine to a screaming 7000rpm on the way to the shops. So if you're comparing SUVs on a power output basis, it's meaningless.Fuel use is a claimed 8.7 litres/100km with the test drive recording 9.7 L/100km which is about right for this engine/auto transmission combination. The new CR-V's body is tauter and stronger and the ride is smoother and quieter.There's a "econ" button on the dash that changes engine mapping to maximise available torque and minimise fuel use. There's also a ``eco assist'' light on the dash that changes colour depending on driving style.SAFETYThe CR-V gets a five-star crash rating, has six airbags - including full length curtain bags - and all the electronic aids. New for this model is uprated pedestrian safety, a flashing emergency brake light, electric-assist steering with inputs to keep the vehicle stable, reverse camera, full-size spare wheel and on-demand all-wheel drive. The VTi-L also has front and rear park sensors.DRIVINGAs driving machines, SUVs can be as lovable as hepatitis. The CR-V isn't quite that bad but the thrill of driving it peaks only when you reach your destination. The engine is a modest performer and the steering is overly light, the handling is predictable and the ride comfort is supple.But while it doesn't win on any performance sparkle, it is a competent tourer that delivers a sense of space to its occupants. It's a car in which you never feel crowded and that's a big bonus for children. Having all-wheel drive is probably superfluous and is a contributor to trimming back fuel economy to near medium car-class thirst levels.But you own it with the thought that practically any object - either capable of movement or not - is likely to fit in its enormous trunk. And that precious factor adds more weight to its argument than winning a traffic light grand prix.VERDICTI simply loved the flexibility and ease of driving. Performance is modest and fuel economy isn't great, but the package hits its target market head on. The top-notch model is probably too expensive for most buyers and the front-drive version is better value.Honda CR-V VTi-L 4WDPrice: $42,290Warranty: 3 years/100,000kmCapped servicing: NoService interval: 6mths/10,000kmResale: 55%Safety: 6 airbags, ABS, ESC, EBD, TCCrash rating: 5-starEngine: 2.4-litre 4-cyl petrol, 140kW/222NmTransmission: 5-speed auto; on-demand AWDThirst: 8.7L/100km; 91RON; 201g/km CO2Dimensions: 4.5m (L), 1.8m (W), 1.7m (H)Weight: 1580kgSpare: Full-size alloy

CRV was an excellent concept for Honda to latch onto back in the late ‘90s. The first generation was a cracker and won a legion of converts to the compact SUV fold, aided by Toyota's RAV4. Now, these smaller softroaders account for a large slice of new vehicle sales in this country. People love the practicality, style and value when compared with say a small wagon.Honda's gen' four CRV has just lobbed and it ushers in the first front wheel drive CRV as well as a diesel mid-next-year. The "new" model is actually a "top hat" or new skin on the previous platform with extra goodies and a revised 2.4-litre petrol engine in addition to the ‘new' 2.0-litre in the front wheel drive variant. It's out of the previous model Civic Sport with revisions.The initial five model range comprises six speed manual and five-speed auto 2WD in low spec' VTi grade and VTi, VTi-S and VTI-L 4WD with the 2.4-litre engine and five-speed auto only. Prices range from $27,490 for the entry manual ‘twobie' up to $42,990 for the 2.4 L ‘fourbie.' The diesel will be a 2.2-litre unit already used in European Hondas and will probably cost more than the VTi-L.New kit in CRV includes reverse cameras across the range and a clever one touch rear seat folding system, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming. All models get a full size alloy spare and a comprehensive trip computer. The new CRV is actually smaller outside than its predecessor but available interior room is greater.Honda has attempted to make the CRV more car like in its drive feel and overall appearance. It's shorter, lower and has a lower ride height. But the look is derivative with a strong similarity to the previous model. It's inoffensive to look at but lacks ‘wow' factor, in other words, boring.The interior has a modern style and is functional but the entire dash is in cheap hard plastic and there are only two soft feel areas, the door armrests and the top of the centre console - not ‘premium' like some of the competition.Honda has made efforts to improve powertrain efficiency but the use of a five-speed auto puts that in question. However, engine internals and wheel bearings are friction reduced, aerodynamics are better, the vehicle now has electric power steering and there's an ‘Econ' mode that optimises some functions including engine ‘mapping' for efficiency.There's a driver coaching ‘Eco' mode too but no engine stop/start on Aussie CRVs. No hybrid either - anywhere. The 2.0-litre achieves 114kW/190Nm and 7.8-litres/100km while the 2.4 achieves 140kW/222Nm and 8.7-litres/100km.There's a paddle shift on the 2.4 model which gets plenty of kit across the range. There's no 4WD locking mode on the fourbie (unlike half the competition) because Honda says buyers won't need it. Tell that to the bloke trying to haul his speedboat up a slippery boat ramp.It gets a five star ANCAP rating partly due to the strong body/chassis construction, multiple air bags and stability control. Honda says the suspension and other vehicle dynamics have been refined this time around for better ride and handling. No local calibration though.We drove the entry level 2WD auto and the top of the range 4WD auto and have to say they feel, well, just like a CRV to drive. This was emphasised by a concurrent drive of the previous model at the launch function.The engines lack low-end torque and like to rev - a Honda trait. They have adequate performance making a bit of noise when you exercise the right foot. We got nowhere near the claimed fuel consumption figures. The 18-inch wheels on the top-of-the-line car generate too much road noise on coarse chip roads. Ride is comfortable and controlled and the new vehicle feels good to drive as a ‘normal' runabout.Next.

This popular SUV has been a family favourite over the past 17 years but the latest model must fire up and get the badge back in front of buyers.Towards the end of last year sales were down nearly 40 per cent while at year's end it was 17.7 per cent down, with the new model lifting sales in the final two months.The CR-V was seventh overall, with 4733 sales in the 100,000-unit category, well down on the Nissan X-Trail (16,066) and the rapidly rising Mazda CX-5 (15,861). Last month the CR-V increased sales by a healthy 133.1 per cent. So buyers are returning to the medium SUV which has been eagerly awaited. The manual front-drive-only base model is $29,990 drive away, with the auto $32,290. The test vehicle, the top of the range VTi-Luxury is $45,467 on the road. It's certainly better looking, quieter, more refined and more economical with a spacious, functional interior and good packaging.But the 2.4-litre version with all-wheel-drive is more expensive, the drive train has been carried over and there is an outdated foot-operated parking brake.The test vehicle was well equipped with hill start assist (HSA) and transmission shift lock (automatic transmission only), tilt and telescopic steering adjustment, trip computer, cruise control with steering wheel controls, a reversing camera with front and rear parking sensors, audio system with AM/FM radio, CD/DVD with MP3 and WMA capability and USB connectivity, Bluetooth and satellite navigation.As well as roof rails, a luggage cover, an alarm, automatic headlights and wipers, fog lights, dual-zone climate control airconditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, an auto-dimming mirror, HID headlights with cornering function and auto turn-off, an electric sunroof, smart key entry with push-button start, eight-way driver power seating adjustment with power lumbar support, four-way power adjustment passenger seat, four seat auto up/down windows - operated by the key fob - as well as leather seats.Hondas always have great interiors and the CR-V remains faithful to the brand. Most surfaces are soft to touch, the finishes are good quality and everything fits together nicely. The instrument cluster is well presented and classy, with a dominant speedo and the rev-counter to the left and other dials to the right.A stylish sweep of wood-look trim lifts the dashboard appearance and the controls and knobs are laid out logically and are ergonomically sound. The centre console has a covered storage area, cup holders and a quality feel. There are plenty of cubby holes.The smaller phone-size pockets above the main door storage areas are thoughtful but there's still no-where handy to put a smart phone in the centre console where the cup holders have to make do.There's decent legroom and headroom and a folding centre armrest, complete with cup holders in the rear, as well as air vents. The boot is spacious with split-fold seats to maximise load capacity. A luggage cover keeps prying eyes away but must be retracted manually, unlike some that are hooked up to the tailgate.A minor complaint is that the outer child-seat anchor points are mounted on the roof, meaning the top tether restricts the view in the rear-vision mirror.The Thai-built wagon has the familiar 2.4-litre engine with honest if uninspiring performance. It's willing and generates 140kW on regular unleaded petrol.Mid-range response is acceptable but there's more zing and noise at higher revs, with the engine's pitch changing at 5000rpm as the VTEC variable-valve timing system, pioneered by Honda, kicks in.Like all Honda engines, it likes to rev but needs a bit more go lower down. Peak power is at 7000rpm, yet the auto shifts up at 6700rpm. If you want all the 140kW, you have to use the paddle shifters and hold it in gear.The engine is hampered by only having five speeds instead of six, which would give it more flexibility. Fuel use is supposed to be 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres, but the reality in everyday driving is likely to be more than 10.I managed 10.9 in a combination of suburban driving and a run to Innisfail, to Coquette Point, Etty Bay and Mourilyan Harbour. I also kept the green ECON button on - which adjusts the vehicle's throttle sensitivity, gear change points and airconditioning to save fuel.There's stability and traction control, front airbags, side airbags and full-length curtain airbags with rollover sensors, anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD).Mums will love the CR-V for its higher elevation on the road, its reversing camera and sensors to make manoeuvring easier. Despite the higher centre of gravity, it's generally well controlled over bumps and settles quickly but it will lean into corners when driven enthusiastically.If you go too fast into a corner it will scrub wide, scrambling for grip, which - most of the time - is on par for a family SUV. The steering is a bit slow and a bit vague at the straight ahead but it is otherwise light enough and it lets you know what is going on at road level.It's comfortable but a little bit jiggly on some surfaces. There's a nice blend of control and suppleness. The CR-V is firm but compliant. There's too much road and tyre noise on coarse bitumen surfaces and a bit of a hollow drumming sound from the rear compartment.The latest CR-V isn't a game-changer for the compact SUV segment but it's near the top. It offers solid value and a classy interior with lots of goodies.The CR-V is easy to drive, is generally quiet, good looking and well built. The foot-operated parking brake is a nuisance, the engine a bit mediocre and its road and tyre noise is too high. CR-V owners will love the latest model and it should provide Honda with far more showroom appeal.

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?Honda's top of the line CR-V with all the trimmings. That means a leather, navigation and a more powerful 2.4-litre engine not to mention all-wheel drive.CR-V prices start at $27,490. This one will set you back $42,290 plus on-road costs.Plenty of them. RAV, CX-5, Captiva, X-Trail, Forester, Outlander, Sportage, Grand Vitara  the list goes on and on. This is one of the most competitive (and confusing) sections of the market.2.4-litre four cylinder petrol engine. Produces 140kW of power and 222Nm of torque, compared to the 2.0-litre model's 114kW/190Nm. It's hooked up to a five-speed auto with paddle shifts in this model.Still lacks punch but a lot better than the 2.0. The trade off for the extra oomph is fuel economy which rises from 7.5 litres to 8.7 litres/100km. If you're looking for a little extra zing in a hurry then use the paddle shifts.We were getting 9.2 litres/100km in mixed driving. Not bad but not that good either. The 2.0-litre returned 7.7 (these are real world figures).Gets 3.5 out of 5 stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide, with CO2 emissions of 201g/km.Gets a full five stars for safety with a full complement of safety equipment. This includes six airbags, whiplash mitigation system and a reversing camera.Can't complain here. Feels more complete, a real step up in terms of comfort from the 2WD model that we drove. Quiet inside too, depending on the road surface. Power adjustment and heating for the front seats.Good vision. Smooth, more refined and composed. Leather seats feel more comfortable too, even though we're not big fans of leather. Like the dash layout, with its big easy to use controls. Toggling the audio on and off is annoying. Satnav system small and the graphics can be difficult to read (no speed camera warnings either).Hmmm. Plenty of luggage space, but it's out-pointed in other departments. Engine is old tech, only gets a five-speed auto and the audio system is nothing special.No reason we wouldn't. On the other hand some of its competitors mount a more convincing argument, including a diesel alternative.