New CR-V solid but falls short [12.20.6]

[T Mac]

Anita and Paul Lienert: He drove, she drove
New CR-V solid but falls short

There are some slight improvements, but overall it's not a huge leap forward

Honda has redesigned its popular CR-V crossover vehicle for model year 2007, with mixed results. While there is a lot to like, we had some concerns about what the Japanese automaker left off the latest edition.

We tested a front-wheel-drive 2007 CR-V EX with no options and a bottom line of $23,445.

Click here (http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061220/OPINION03/612200335/1149/AUTO03) to read the entire He Drove/She Drove review on The Detroit News

[2RedV's]

We have taken 2 07's out for long drives.
I normally drive our 99 and she drives the 04.

Wife likes the new look and likes the way it drives. She likes some of the new features and the new interior. She likes the new shifter and location. She likes the new tailgate better than her 04's.

I could live with the exterior except for that UGLY front end. Maybe that lower grill brightwork could be blacked out? I don't like the new shifter and location. Seems awkward to me? I also love having the spare tire on the back and the way the rear door opens on the 99.

I am disapointed that Honda still has not come out with a diesel option in the US. How long has VW had one? (Yes, I know VW didn't in 2006 because of the new low sulfur bit.) The extra MPG, longer engine life and low-end torque would be fabulous to have.