2010 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V has been improved for 2010, and experts now say it's the best small SUV you can buy. Changes include a more powerful engine, a 1 mpg fuel-economy boost, a better-looking exterior and optional Bluetooth, USB port and iPod interfaces inside. Reviews say the CR-V keeps all of the best aspects of last year's model; see our report on the 2009 Honda CR-V (Base MSRP: $21,095 to $28,795) for a full analysis of the CR-V.   

Fuel economy rises to 24 mpg combined on front-wheel drive models (21 mpg city/28 mpg highway) or 23 mpg combined with all-wheel drive (21 mpg city/27 mpg highway). As in 2009, every Honda CR-V gets a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic transmission, but the engine produces 14 more horsepower for 2010, addressing a common gripe from critics about the '09 model.

The Honda CR-V earns top scores in all front-, side- and rear-crash tests conducted by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The CR-V also earns 4 stars out of 5 for rollover avoidance in government tests, but its roof strength is only Marginal in IIHS's rollover test. Standard safety equipment is similar to others in its class: antilock brakes, traction and stability control, and front, front-side and curtain airbags. Options include a backup camera and parking sensors.