If you want a rugged, go-anywhere 4×4, look elsewhere. But if you want a 4×4 that drives as well as most estates, yet has a higher driving position and a little extra traction on slippy ground, the Honda CR-V fits the bill.
On Tarmac, the CR-V hardly feels like a 4×4 at all. It drives well and rides more comfortably than the Accord Sports Tourer. The refined 2.2-litre diesel needs to be worked hard to make decent progress when towing, however, and the large gap between second and third gears doesn’t help.
The soft suspension that absorbs bumps so well when the CR-V is solo isn’t quite as happy with a caravan in tow, allowing a little more movement than we’d like.
The Honda’s trump card is its performance in the practicality testing. The boot swallowed all but one item of our holiday kit, and access to the luggage area was easy. Towing mirrors proved a doddle to fit, and there is a handy 12V socket in the boot.