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Once funky and cute, the Honda CR-V has grown up to look more like a high-dollar crossover. This latest-generation CR-V, completely redesigned and re-engineered for the 2007 model year, is more powerful and more comfortable than the previous-generation models. For 2010, the CR-V receives a further update that includes a new front bumper and headlights, redesigned hood, and new rear bumper shape on the outside and subtle changes to the interior.

The Honda CR-V's suspension delivers a comfortable ride and responsive handling. The four-cylinder engine employs variable intake valve timing to optimize horsepower and torque for acceleration and cruising speeds. A higher compression ratio and other updates boost its output to 180 hp at 6,800 rpm and 161 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Real Time all-wheel-drive is optional on all models.

Compared with the previous-generation Honda CR-V, there's slightly more room in the front seat and (in most dimensions) slightly less room in the rear. There's marginally more cargo room. Everything by way of instruments, controls and storage is, respectively, logically arrayed, properly placed, and reasonably plentiful. Buyers can choose from three models: the basic LX, mid-range EX, or leather-upholstered EX-L, which can be fitted with an optional navigation system that incorporates a rear-view video camera for safe and easy backing. All have four doors and seat five.

Additional equipment for 2010 includes Bluetooth HandsFreeLink on models equipped with the optional navigation system, and auto on/off headlights on EX-L models.

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All Honda CR-V models come with a 180-hp four-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel-drive is standard, four-wheel-drive is available for all models ($1,200).

The Honda CR-V LX ($21,545) comes with fabric upholstery, air conditioning, cruise control, powered outside mirrors that fold, power windows, power central locking, driver's-seat height adjustment, 60/40-split rear seatbacks that recline and fold, tilt-and-telescope steering wheel, four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA stereo, trip computer/information center, a collapsible tray between the front seats, and 17-inch steel wheels with P225/65R17 tires.

The CR-V EX ($23,845) adds a tilt-and-slide power moonroof; intermittent rear window wiper/washer; steering wheel-mounted audio controls for a six-speaker stereo with an in-dash, six-CD changer; dual-deck cargo shelf; lights-and-horn security system; rear privacy glass; and an outside ambient temperature gauge.

The Honda CR-V EX-L ($26,495) features leather-trimmed seats, armrests, shifter, and steering-wheel; heated front seats; dual-zone automatic climate control; eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat with power lumbar support; auto on/off headlights; a 270-watt, seven-speaker (including subwoofer) premium stereo; XM satellite radio with a 90-day trial subscription; and a front center console with storage for 24 CDs.

The CR-V EX-L can also be equipped with voice-recognition GPS-based navigation, and a rear-view camera. The CD changer then moves into what was the CD storage space in the console.

No other options are offered, although Honda-approved accessories available from dealers include wheel locks; attachments/racks for bicycles, kayak, skis, and surfboard; a roof box; auto-dim inside mirror with compass; amplified bass speaker system; and backup sensors.

Safety features that come standard include the required three-point seatbelts at all five seating positions; child safety seat anchors (LATCH); front airbags; front seat-mounted side airbags (to minimize upper body injuries in side impacts); roof-mounted, front and rear seat side air curtains (to minimize head injuries in side impacts and rollovers); and front-seat active head restraints (to minimize neck injuries in rear impacts).

For crash avoidance there are anti-lock brakes (which let the driver steer during panic stops); electronic brake-force distribution (which optimizes braking power front-to-rear during emergency stops); brake-assist (which senses impending emergency brake application and boosts pedal pressure); Vehicle Stability Assist (Honda's electronic stability control system that attempts to minimize skidding in turns); and tire pressure monitors (which warn of dangerous drops in tire pressure).