For the past 6 months or so, we’ve been seriously looking at a handful of vehicles, in preparation for that day when my husband’s SUV will permanently retire. One of the key attributes we look for in a vehicle is longevity, and given the fact that we tend to be quite brand loyal, we are proud to say that all 3 of our vehicles have transported our family over 100,000 miles (way over!). With no relief in site at the pump, efficiency is topping our list of “must-haves” in any vehicle we ultimately decide to purchase.
Late last year, I had the privilege of attending the 2012 Honda CR-V National Press Introduction, where I test drove the vehicle all over the mountains and freeways of San Diego. Despite the fact that I found the newly redesigned Honda Odyssey to be spacious and luxurious, we can’t justify a minivan purchase with our smallish family of four. And the reality is, we’re more of an SUV family, preferring it’s rugged, sporty appearance over the more family-friendly minivan. Despite the fact that there are many reasons a family would opt for a minivan over an SUV, I’d like to share the top five reasons we think it’s an optimal vehicle for our family.
1. Outstanding Safety Profile: As a mom to two small children, safety is the single most important factor I consider when researching a vehicle. Traditionally, SUV’s were considered to be at high risk for rollover incidents. Contrary to this fact, the 2012 Honda CR-V was deemed a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and received overall scores of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. You can read the specifics regarding the vehicle’s safety features in my review.
2. Improved Fuel Efficiency: For the past few months, I’ve not seen a significant drop in fuel prices. The reality is, I don’t know that relief is in sight. It’s imperative that we find a vehicle that can achieve they type of fuel efficiency we see with our sedan. Utilizing this handy comparison chart on FuelEconomy.gov, I learned that the 2012 Honda CR-V gets just 1 MPG less than our sedan and 6-8 MPG less than our SUV. The new compact SUV is rated well with regards to fuel efficiency and has inherent systems and design elements in place to maximize efficiency.
3. Attractive Design and Abundant Standard Luxury Features: Most people are initially attracted to a vehicle’s appearance. The 2012 Honda CR-V is as sleek and stylish as it is rugged and sporty. And with standard, inherent features like Pandora Internet radio, voice text messaging, Bluetooth, a standard USB port, and a rearview camera, we don’t have to feel compelled to upgrade to achieve a luxury vehicle.
4. Roomy Interior Despite Compact Design: Should we ever decide to expand our family, I imagine we’d need a larger vehicle. But for our current needs, this spacious, five-passenger vehicle can transport our family and all of the gear that go with us comfortably.
5. Deemed Best Affordable Compact SUV For Families: In an uncertain economy, purchasing a new vehicle is a weighty decision. With a starting price of just $22,295, families can afford a luxury SUV at a price that is competitive and in many instances comparable to a luxury sedan.
For more information about the 2012 Honda CR-V, just visit their website.
No compensation was received for this post. A vehicle loan for the purposes of a test drive was provided.
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Great review – it’s such a nice looking car. I’m definitely on the lookout for a car with better fuel efficiency.
What a beautiful car! With gas being so expensive, fuel efficiency is a must in a car, for me! Great review!
I’ve been a Honda girl for many years. Currently driving an 07 Civic. Love the look of the new CR-V!
That car is beautiful and I love the features.