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One of the most popular Honda SUV's on the market is the HondaCR-V, which is considered to be what is called a 'crossover'SUV. This Honda SUV is a car that has an SUV or sport utilityvehicle look but is assembled on a more economical construction.The Honda SUV, CR-V, was 'copied' from the extremely popularHonda Civic in order to meet a growing demand for a SUV made byHonda. The letters CR-V stand for "comfortable runabout vehicle"and comes with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
The very first Honda SUV that was planned 'in house' by Hondawas the CR-V in 1996. While there was considerable uncertaintyas to whether or not this type of Honda SUV could sell as wellas it's forerunner, the Honda Passport, the CR-V was introducedto the US market in 1997. The CR-V has consistently maintainedexceptional sales ever since.
The first CR-V was designed and produced from 1996 through 1998known as the LX model trim. Attractive features includedrear-folding seats, a picnic table stored in the rear floor andplastic covered front and rear bumpers as well as fender wells.The next model CR-V was on the market from 1998 to 2001 anddidn't change the body style but increased the engine power fromthe original and was changed to an engine that produces146-horse power and additional torsion. The beauty of thisincrease was that it did not affect the fuel consumption orprice of the car.
The next line of Honda CR-V's was from 2002 through 2005 and thebuild of this Honda SUV was given a complete restyling based onthe most recent Civic model. The new CR-V was also given a morepowerful engine with 106-horse power and increased torsion. Thisnew engine still offered the same fuel economy as the previousHonda CR-V models. This Honda SUV was awarded the Car and Drivermagazine's award for best small SUV of 2002 and 2003.
In 2005, the CR-V received only a minor model change with16-inch wheels instead of 15 inch, which has been on the earliermodels. The taillights were also changes from the color amber tored and white. The 2005 CR-V was also equipped with front andside airbags, anti-lock brakes and side-curtain airbags. Whilethe next CR-V model has not yet been unveiled, many are guessingthat the new model will have more power in addition to theoption of having an onboard navigation system.
Make sure you check out the exciting new 2006 Honda CR-V atHonda dealers now
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