The four-cylinder engine isn't as smooth as a V6, however, and because it revs higher it sometimes seems like it's working harder. It isn't really, and you can be sure Honda's big four-cylinder is sturdy. So don't be afraid to rev it. Honda is a leader in engine technology, and the CR-V's 2.4-liter, 16-valve, DOHC engine benefits from "intelligent" variable valve timing, which Honda calls i-VTEC. This system allows the engine to generate lots of usable power while keeping fuel economy at an impressive EPA-estimated 22/27 mpg city/highway. Like all Hondas, the CR-Vs is a clean-running vehicle. It meets the LEV-II low-emissions standards, meaning 10 CR-Vs generate fewer pollutants than a single car did just 10 years ago.

As four-cylinder/automatic combinations go, the CR-V's is first rate. The five-speed automatic is fairly responsive and helps keep the four-cylinder engine in the right rev range for power or fuel economy. Downshifts come quickly, and full-throttle upshifts come smoothly just before the redline. Nonetheless, if obtaining the best response, performance or economy is your priority or rush-hour commutes aren't part of the daily ritual, we recommend the five-speed manual available on the EX.

The CR-V all-wheel-drive system operates full time, with the bulk of the power directed to the front wheels. It's a great aid when winter snowstorms hit, adding confidence and sure-footed tracking in slippery conditions. Vehicle Stability Assist, new for 2005 and standard on all models, uses sensors at each wheel and the anti-lock brake system to modulate the electronic throttle and apply brake force to individual wheels as needed to maintain traction and avoid skids on slippery pavement and in tight turns.

Called Real Time AWD, Honda's system enhances stability and maximizes traction in the snow and on dirt or gravel roads. This is not a true off-road system with a dual-range transfer case or locking differentials or anything of the sort. With its standard smooth-tread tires, the CR-V is not suited for backcountry off-road travel. But it is suited for snow.

Whether the roads are smooth or rough, the CR-V rides well. It rides more smoothly than most SUVs, which makes for pleasant motoring around town over busy, beat-up streets. Handling is reassuring. It feels sure-footed on twisting roads. Even when it's driven harder than most owners are likely to go, the CR-V doesn't push excessively at its front end or slide at the rear, and the tires provide good grip on pavement. In short, this cute-ute drives more like a car than a truck.

That's because it is more car than truck. The CR-V is based on a front-wheel-drive Honda Civic, with a unit-body construction and four-wheel independent suspension. It's more maneuverable in tight parking lots than a RAV4 or Escape, thanks to its tighter turning radius (33.8 feet, compared to 35.4 feet for both the RAV4 and Escape). Given the way most folks drive their SUVs, being more like a car is a good thing.

In terms of crashworthiness, the CR-V rates highly. It earned five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for both front and side impacts, the highest ratings possible. Remember, though, that NHTSA's tests compare cars in a given class (in this case small SUVs) rather than across all categories (big SUVS, sedans or minivans).